Vacation

Question

We are looking to fly into Anchorage but would like to drive to Seward while also making the trip to Denali. Recommendations on how to make that into a loop ending back in Anchorage. Any input would be appreciated. Open to any other "must do" things.

Answer

Planning a loop in Alaska that includes Anchorage, Seward, and Denali is a fantastic way to see both coastal and interior landscapes. With careful timing, you can enjoy scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities while minimizing backtracking.

Suggested Loop Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Anchorage – Pick up your rental car and spend the night in Anchorage. Explore local highlights such as the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, Anchorage Museum, or a short hike in Chugach State Park.
Day 2: Anchorage to Seward (127 miles, ~2.5 hours) – Drive the scenic Seward Highway along Turnagain Arm. Stop at Beluga Point for possible wildlife sightings, Portage Glacier, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Overnight in Seward.
Day 3: Seward – Take a Kenai Fjords National Park boat tour to see glaciers and marine wildlife, or explore nearby hiking trails like Exit Glacier. Overnight in Seward.
Day 4: Seward to Denali Area (via Anchorage, ~7–8 hours) – Drive back toward Anchorage and then north on the Parks Highway (AK-3) to the Denali area. Alternatively, break up the drive with an overnight in Talkeetna, a charming small town with views of Denali and a laid-back vibe. Overnight in Talkeetna or Denali area.
Day 5: Denali National Park – Spend the day in Denali National Park. Consider a guided bus tour into the park to maximize wildlife viewing, or enjoy shorter hikes near the entrance for a more flexible experience. Overnight near Denali.
Day 6: Denali back to Anchorage (230 miles, ~5 hours) – Drive back to Anchorage. Depending on timing, you can stop in Wasilla or Talkeetna for a meal or short walk. Overnight in Anchorage before your flight out.

Alternative Options:

Fly from Anchorage to Denali (via Talkeetna) to reduce driving time, then rent a car for Seward leg.
Extend the Seward portion with additional hiking or kayaking in Resurrection Bay if you prefer more outdoor adventure.
If you have extra days, consider a detour along the Denali Highway for a truly remote, scenic experience.

Must-Do Activities Along the Loop:

Wildlife viewing: bears, moose, eagles, and whales along Seward Highway and Denali.
Kenai Fjords National Park boat tour or Exit Glacier hikes.
Short hikes or photography stops along Turnagain Arm (Beluga Point, Bird Point).
Flightseeing tour in Talkeetna for a Denali aerial experience.
Local food stops: seafood in Seward, breweries or bakeries in Anchorage, and café stops in Talkeetna.

This loop provides a balanced mix of coastal scenery, mountains, glaciers, wildlife, and the Alaskan wilderness while minimizing backtracking. Driving times are manageable with scenic stops, and you can adjust the itinerary based on your interests and pace.

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