Anchorage (AK)

The city of Anchorage began as a ramshackle community of railline workers living in tents. The community, settled in 1915, hasgrown and evolved into the largest city in Alaska with 260,000people.

For a look at Alaska culture, Anchorage is the place to be.Explore the Anchorage Museum of History and Art or the AlaskaNative Heritage Center for a taste of what Alaska has to offer.

Directions

Headquarters for the Alaska Railroad

Chugach National Forest (AK)

The Chugach National Forest is the second largest forest in the National Forest System. Roughly the same size as the states of Massachusetts and Rhode Island combined, the Chugach (pronounced Chew'gatch) is the most northern of National Forests, only 500 miles south of the Arctic Circle. One third of the Chugach is composed of rocks and moving ice. The remainder is a diverse and majestic tapestry of land, water, plants and animals. The mountains, lakes, and rivers of the Kenai Peninsula, the islands and glaciers of Prince William Sound, and the copious wetlands and birds of the Copper River Delta make this National Forest a mecca for adventurers.

Directions

The byway passes through portions of the Chugach National Forest.

Chugach State Park (AK)

Chugach State Park is an accessible wilderness in the backyard of Anchorage. Wildlife viewing and mountain scenery are year-round pleasures and campers can choose developed campgrounds or secluded backcountry valleys. There are nearly 30 trails that will take hikers throughout the park to see some of its most enchanting views. Many visitors may want to stop at the Eagle River Nature Center for a guided tour or interpretive program. Travelers may want to explore a few of the park's 50 glaciers on their own. And for extreme adventure, try climbing a mountainside or plunging through river rapids. Whatever the case, the 495,000 acre park offers a wide variety of activities in all seasons.

Directions

The byway passes Chugach State Park in the Kenai peninsula.

Denali National Park (AK)

Denali National Park and Preserve is home to the nation's highest peak.

Directions

Off of Alaska State Route 3

Denali State Park (AK)

This state park highlights some of Alaska's best features.

Directions

Off of Alaska SR 3 in Denali National Park.

Fairbanks (AK)

Fairbanks is located in Alaska's interior.

Directions

The byway ends in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Nenana (AK)

This historic town of the Alaskan interior makes historic culture a way of life.

Directions

Off of SR 3 near Fairbanks.

Seward (AK)

If you hear names like "Resurrection Bay" and "MarathonMountain" you are probably at the romantic town of Seward on theSeward Highway. The town was named to honor William H. Seward, whohelped the US purchase Alaska from Russia.

Near Seward, visitors will find Kenai Fjords National Park andthe Chugach National Forest headquarters. While in Seward, visitorswon't want to miss a visit to the Alaska Sealife Center. Theseattractions are available year-round, but Seward has somethingextra during the fourth of July. Celebrating Independence Day inSeward means running or watching the Mount Marathon Race andparticipating in events all around Seward.

Directions

Where the Alaska Railroad begins.

Talkeetna (AK)

This little town on the Alaska Railroad is the jumping off point for most climbers headed for Mt. McKinley in Denali National Park.

Directions

North of Anchorage off of SR 3.

Wasilla (AK)

Just north of Anchorage, this railroad town offers a look at transportation history.

Directions

On SR 3.