Alaska Road Trip Itinerary: Fairbanks to Anchorage via Matanuska Glacier

Day 1: Explore Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska on June 29, 2025

9:00 AM

Museum of the North

This museum offers a comprehensive look at Alaska's history and culture through engaging exhibits and Alaskan art.
USD15, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Expert Tour of Fairbanks

Consider taking a guided tour to see local attractions like Pioneer Park and the Chena River.
USD50, 3 hours

3:00 PM

Explore the Gardens at the Georgeson Botanical Garden

Enjoy a relaxing stroll through vibrant gardens showcasing various flora native to Alaska.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Departure for Tok

Start your scenic drive to Tok, enjoying the beautiful Alaskan landscapes along the way.
N/A, 2 hours
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Day 2: Journey to Tok

Tok, Alaska on June 30, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast On the Road

Grab a quick breakfast from a local café before hitting the road again.
N/A, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive Towards Glennallen

Travel down the Tok Cut-Off Highway, taking in the magnificent views along the scenic drive.
N/A, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Stop at Tok Mainstreet

Take some time to explore Tok's Mainstreet, featuring local artisan shops and small attractions.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Continue to Glennallen

Resume your journey south toward Glennallen, another picturesque part of the trip.
N/A, 2 hours
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Day 3: Explore Glennallen

Glennallen, Alaska on July 1, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast in Glennallen

Enjoy a simple breakfast at a local diner before a day of exploring.
N/A, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Visitor Center

Learn about one of the largest national parks in the U.S. and its stunning wildlife and landscapes.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Scenic Drive to Matanuska Glacier

Head toward the majestic Matanuska Glacier, taking in the breathtaking views along the route.
N/A, 2 hours
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Day 4: Matanuska Glacier Adventure

Matanuska Glacier, Alaska on July 2, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cabin

Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at your accommodation near the glacier.
N/A, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Guided Glacier Hike

Join a guided hike to explore the glacier, where you will see stunning blue ice formations and learn about glacial geology.
USD100, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch Break

Pack a personal lunch and enjoy it amidst the stunning glacier scenery.
N/A, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site

Take some time to explore the trails around the recreation site and enjoy panoramic views of the glacier.
USD5, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Departure for Anchorage

Start your journey to Anchorage, where you’ll conclude your day in Alaska's largest city.
N/A, 2 hours
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Day 5: Discover Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska on July 3, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Enjoy breakfast from a cozy café in Anchorage that offers a selection of light bites.
N/A, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Alaska Native Heritage Center

Explore the culture and history of Alaska's Native peoples through engaging exhibits and live demonstrations.
USD20, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch in Downtown Anchorage

Find a food truck or casual dining spot in downtown Anchorage for a quick bite.
N/A, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Take a Scenic Drive to Turnagain Arm

Experience breathtaking views along the Seward Highway, a designated National Scenic Byway.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 6: Return to Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska on July 4, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast in Anchorage

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your accommodation before beginning your drive north.
N/A, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Scenic Route back to Fairbanks

Depart Anchorage and take the scenic route back to Fairbanks, making stops at viewpoints along the way.
N/A, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch stop at Glennallen

Take an hour to stretch your legs and grab food-to-go in Glennallen.
N/A, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Continue Journey to Fairbanks

Finish the drive back to Fairbanks, preparing for your last day.
N/A, 3 hours
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Day 7: Scenic Stops on the Way Home

Fairbanks, Alaska on July 5, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast near Fairbanks

Have breakfast at a local spot, then plan for a few scenic stops on the drive home.
N/A, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit North Pole, Alaska

Take a brief stop in North Pole to see the famous Santa Claus House and enjoy some local kitsch.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch on the Road

Pack a light lunch to eat on the go or stop in a roadside café.
N/A, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore Chena Lakes Recreation Area

End your trip with a visit to the Chena Lakes Recreation Area for some wonderful natural scenery.
Free, 2 hours
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