Self drive day trips from Anchorage - middle of June

Question

We will be in Anchorage at the middle of June, have 4 full days and are looking for suggestions for driving day trips to do ourselves. Scenic drives, easy/simple hikes etc. Thanks

Answer

With 4 full days in Anchorage during the middle of June, you have plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning natural beauty of Alaska on scenic drives and easy hikes. The weather will likely be mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Here are some fantastic day trips that will allow you to enjoy Alaska's wilderness without straying too far from Anchorage:

1. Seward (2.5 hours drive one way)
A scenic drive south to Seward along the Seward Highway will give you stunning views of Turnagain Arm and the surrounding mountains. Seward is a charming town located on the Kenai Peninsula and offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Exit Glacier: Just outside of Seward, you can take an easy, short hike to the foot of Exit Glacier. This is an accessible trail that provides great views of the glacier and surrounding scenery. There are also longer hikes if you want to explore further.
Kenai Fjords National Park: While a boat tour to see the fjords might be a longer trip, you can still enjoy the scenic beauty of Seward and nearby waters from the shore or by exploring the town.

2. Girdwood and Alyeska Resort (1 hour drive one way)
Girdwood, a small mountain town, is a great spot for a quick day trip. It’s home to Alyeska Resort, which offers scenic views of the mountains and glaciers. Even if you’re not into skiing, you can take the Alyeska Tram to the top of Mount Alyeska for panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers, mountains, and coastline.

Winner Creek Trail: This easy hike begins at the base of the Alyeska Resort. It’s about 2 miles one way and follows a beautiful creek, leading to a hand tram across a gorge. It’s a scenic, moderate hike, perfect for a half-day adventure.
Girdwood Town Exploration: Explore Girdwood’s quaint shops and eateries, and enjoy some local dining before heading back to Anchorage.

3. Hatcher Pass and Independence Mine (1.5 hours drive one way)
Hatcher Pass is a fantastic place to enjoy dramatic alpine scenery, and it’s less than 2 hours from Anchorage. The drive to the pass offers beautiful mountain views, and you can explore the historic Independence Mine State Historical Park.

Independence Mine Hike: This is an easy, short hike that takes you through the remnants of the old mining town. You can explore the historic buildings and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.
Archangel Valley Trail: If you’re up for a longer hike, this 4-mile trail leads to the beautiful Archangel Valley, offering stunning views of alpine lakes, wildflowers, and glaciers.

4. Knik Glacier (1.5 hours drive one way)
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, consider driving out to Knik Glacier. The Knik River is accessible by vehicle, and you can take a guided glacier tour or simply enjoy the drive to see this massive glacier up close.

Glacier Tours: Many companies in the area offer scenic flights or ATV tours to the glacier, providing a unique perspective of the ice and surrounding mountains.
Scenic Drive: If you prefer a more relaxed day, you can simply drive along the Knik River and enjoy views of the glacier from the riverbanks.

5. Talkeetna (2.5 hours drive one way)
Talkeetna is a quaint, historic town that serves as a starting point for mountaineers attempting to climb Denali. While the drive to Talkeetna is a bit longer, it’s a charming town with great opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Denali Flightseeing Tours: Consider taking a flightseeing tour to get a close-up view of Denali and the surrounding mountains. Even if you don’t do a flight, the town’s historic district is great for strolling and exploring.
Talkeetna Lakes Park: If you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor activity, head to Talkeetna Lakes Park for a peaceful walk around the lakes, where you can enjoy wildlife viewing and fantastic views of the Alaska Range.

6. Matanuska Glacier (2 hours drive one way)
If you're interested in glaciers, Matanuska Glacier is a stunning location and perfect for a day trip. It’s one of the largest glaciers accessible by car in Alaska. There are guided tours that will take you right onto the glacier, where you can explore ice caves, crevasses, and unique ice formations.

Glacier Hike: A guided hike onto the glacier is a must-do for anyone interested in getting close to a glacier. The hike is relatively easy and gives you the opportunity to explore the ice up close.

Final Tips:

Pack Layers: Even in June, the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so make sure to bring layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures in the mountains.
Check Road Conditions: Always check road conditions before heading out, especially if you plan to drive to remote areas like Hatcher Pass or Talkeetna. Some roads may be gravel or closed due to weather conditions.
Wildlife Watching: June is an excellent time for wildlife watching. Keep an eye out for moose, bears, eagles, and other wildlife, especially on your drives and while hiking!

These day trips will give you a great mix of scenic drives, easy hikes, and the chance to experience the stunning beauty of Alaska. Enjoy your adventure!

Self drive day trips from Anchorage - middle of June

More Anchorage Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions