Anchorage to Fairbanks: Best Stops on George Parks Highway
George Parks Highway is more than just the route to Denali. It’s an epic Alaskan road trip all on its own. This 323-mile stretch between Anchorage and Fairbanks delivers everything from oversized cinnamon rolls and small-town charm to some of the best roadside views of Denali National Park. On a clear day, it’s one of the few drives where you might join the legendary “30% Club,” a nod to the small percentage of visitors who actually get to see the elusive peak of North America’s tallest mountain.
We drove this highway twice during our 21-day Alaska road trip to all 8 national parks, and it was absolutely worth it. While it doesn’t win “most scenic drive” (that honor goes to Seward Highway), Parks Highway surprised us with some of our favorite memories, from Talkeetna’s quirky charm to the moment Denali revealed itself after days of hiding behind the clouds.
Ready to plan your route? Here’s everything you need to know about driving George Parks Highway between Anchorage and Fairbanks, plus the best stops, scenic viewpoints, and can’t-miss experiences along the way!
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P.S. Planning an Alaska adventure? Our Alaska Travel Guide includes maps, tips, and customizable itineraries for exploring one or all of Alaska’s National Parks, whether you’ve got 3 days or 3 weeks to explore.
1. Anchorage
Your starting point is Alaska’s largest city, but don’t rush out of town if you don’t have to. Anchorage has some beautiful viewpoints and breakfast spots worth checking out before hitting the highway.
Grab coffee and a bite from Kaladi Brothers Coffee or Snow City Cafe.
Stop at Point Woronzof Park or Earthquake Park for views of Denali on a clear day.
Stretch your legs at Kincaid Park or on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail if you have time.
2. Eagle River Nature Center
Located in Chugach State Park, this peaceful stop is perfect for an early stretch. Short hikes, boardwalk trails, and potential moose sightings make it a scenic way to break up the first leg of the drive.
3. Eklutna Tailrace
About 30 minutes north of Anchorage, this short detour offers a peaceful spot where turquoise waters and salmon runs come together. It’s another low-effort, high-reward stop to ease into the day.
4. Hatcher Pass
Another detour worth taking if you have time. This alpine pass winds through stunning mountain scenery and offers hiking trails, wildflowers, and panoramic views in summer. The historic Independence Mine Historical State Park also adds a touch of gold rush charm.
5. Iditarod Headquarters (Wasilla)
This fun, family-friendly stop introduces you to the legendary Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Explore the museum, check out race footage, and see trophies, photos, and gear from past races. Depending on the time of year, you might even get to meet sled dogs!
Bonus tip: If you’re hungry, consider Krazy Moose Subs in Wasilla.
6. Nancy Lake State Recreation Area
This serene spot is dotted with lakes and surrounded by peaceful forest. A nice break from the highway with canoe rentals and boardwalk trails.
7. Talkeetna
Talkeetna isn’t directly on George Parks Highway (it’s about 15 minutes off route), but it’s one of the most beloved small towns in Alaska and well worth the detour. We grabbed ice cream at Shirley’s (try the Northern Lights!) and wandered the charming streets before continuing north. It was one of the best surprises of the day.
8. Denali View South (Milepost 135.2)
Even if you don’t go into Denali National Park, the George Parks Highway offers some of the best roadside views of the mountain. The Denali View South turnout is a must-stop and one of the best pullouts in Alaska for a chance to join Denali’s 30% club and catch a glimpse of the famous mountain.
What’s the 30% Club? It’s the lucky group of travelers who actually get to see the mountain. Denali is known for hiding behind clouds and only showing off for about 30% of visitors. When we left the park that morning, we’d mostly struck out. But a little ways down the George Parks Highway on our way to Anchorage, there she was—fully visible, both the North and South Peaks glowing in the snow. We practically slammed on the brakes to pull over and stare. We got lucky with a mostly clear view, and it’s one of our favorite memories from the drive!
You can also hike the Curry Ridge Trail from the nearby Kesugi K'en Campground for even better views if the weather holds.
9. Byers Lake
A tranquil spot within Denali State Park, perfect for a picnic, paddling, or an easy walk. There’s a suspension bridge and light hiking trails that offer great views without the crowds.
10. Random Scenic Pull-Offs
The magic of this drive is often found in the unexpected. Between the official viewpoints, we stopped at nearly every wide shoulder or gravel turnout with a clear sightline, and those ended up being our favorite views of the mountain. If the sky clears, pull over. You never know when Denali might appear.
11. Denali View North (Milepost 162.7)
Denali View North is another great overlook with a platform and restrooms, but again, the real reward is the mountain itself. If you see it here (or anywhere), congratulations… You’re part of the 30% Club!
12. Creek Side Cafe
This roadside cafe just south of Denali National Park is home to the largest cinnamon roll we’ve ever seen. Yes, you can order “Texas-sized,” but the real flex is “Alaska-sized,” which is roughly the size of your face. We picked one up on the way out of Denali, and it powered us all the way to Anchorage.
13. Husky Homestead
Just outside the park entrance, this immersive and entertaining tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at Iditarod life with 4-time champion Jeff King. You’ll meet the dogs and learn what it takes to race across Alaska.
14. Denali National Park
This is the crown jewel along the Parks Highway and the reason most are making the drive from Anchorage. Drive the first 15 miles of the park road, hike Savage River Loop, take a guided bus tour deeper into the park, or just sit and hope the clouds part. Rangers recommend being in the park around 10pm in the summer for the best chance at views. It didn’t work for us, but the highway came through instead.
Explore Denali:
Stop at the Denali Visitor Center for maps and information.
Book a bus tour if you want to go past mile 15.
Tour the Denali Sled Dog Kennels and watch a sled dog demonstration.
Don’t miss the Savage Alpine Trail, one of the best hikes in the park.
15. Nenana
Just before you reach Fairbanks, stop in Nenana, a tiny town with a big personality.
Learn about the Nenana Ice Classic, a quirky tradition and lottery.
Visit the historic Nenana Depot and local museums.
16. Fairbanks
You’ve made it! Fairbanks is a great base for exploring Alaska’s interior, with options for hot springs, aurora chasing, and even driving the Dalton Highway toward the Arctic Circle.
Nearby Favorites:
Soak at Chena Hot Springs.
Learn something new at the Museum of the North.
Visit the nearby North Pole. (Seriously! You’re so close, why not?)
Map of Best Stops on George Parks Highway
Want to visualize your road trip? Here's a custom map showing all the best stops between Anchorage and Fairbanks along the George Parks Highway.
❓FAQ: Know Before You Go
Q: What is the George Parks Highway?
The George Parks Highway (AK-3) is a 323-mile scenic drive connecting Anchorage and Fairbanks. It most well-known for offering access to Denali National Park. The route is entirely paved and generally well-maintained.
Q: How far is it from Anchorage to Denali via the George Parks Highway?
You can drive it in about 6–7 hours without stops, but we recommend turning it into a full-day adventure with scenic pullouts, lunch in Talkeetna, and time in Denali. Consider staying overnight near the park.
Q: Where does it start and end?
It starts in Anchorage and ends in Fairbanks (or vice versa). Most travelers drive it one way and return via another route or by plane, but it also works as an out-and-back.
Q: When’s the best time to drive it?
Late May through early September is ideal, especially if you want to experience the best road conditions, open services, and summer activities. Fall colors arrive quickly in early September, so late summer is an underrated time to visit.
Q: Is it dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome at many of the outdoor stops along the way, including picnic areas, scenic viewpoints, and some trailheads. Just note that they are not allowed on any trails within Denali National Park, outside of the Roadside Hiking Trail and the Roadside Bike Trail.
Q: Where should I stay?
Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks all offer a wide range of lodging, from hotels to cabins. If you want to break up the drive, Talkeetna and Byers Lake have some fun options too.
Q: Are there places to eat along the way?
Wasilla has fast food and local joints, while Talkeetna is the go-to for fun cafes and homestyle eats. If you're continuing north from Denali, Healy also has a few solid restaurants and a grocery store. (We loved 49th State Brewing in Healy!)
Q: Are there hikes along the George Parks Highway?
Some of the best hikes along the George Parks Highway include Curry Ridge Trail (from the Denali South Viewpoint), Mt. Healy Overlook Trail in the park, and scenic loops near Byers Lake. Even if you're not a big hiker, many short trails and overlooks make this route more than worth the drive.
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