How to Drive Alaska's Parks Highway

Alaska's Parks Highway runs over 300 miles between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Although the paved road runs through some of Alaska's toughest terrain, it is also one of the widest and best roads, even during the winter. The highway crosses more than 40 bridges and gives fantastic views of Mt. McKinley and other peaks along the way. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

1. Step back in time at the Eklutna Historical Park around mile 26. The site dates back to the 1600s and features small "Spirit Houses" which have been placed on graves. The Heritage House Museum exhibits items from native and Russian life in the area.

2. Learn about the Iditarod Dog Sled Race in Wasilla. The town of Knik served as a supply point before Anchorage was founded and The Knik Museum and Dog Mushers Hall of Fame is the only remaining building from that time. This museum honors famous dog mushers and their dogs.

3. Fish near Houston, Alaska where you'll find world-class sport fishing in the Little Susitna River. The refuge is home to an abundance of wildlife so keep your eyes open for bear, moose and wildfowl. Birders can find a wide range of migrating shore birds here during various times of the year.

4. See Mt. McKinley at miles 70 and 104. You may also catch sight of the famous mountain at other points depending on the weather. Mile 104 gives you a good view of the Alaska Range's three tallest peaks: McKinley, Hunter and Foraker.

5. Visit Denali National Park whose southern entrance is around mile 132. Most visitors to the park spot wildlife including grizzly bears, moose and eagles. You'll also get great views of North America's tallest mountain peak: Mt. McKinley, known locally as Denali, which means "The Great One."

6. Cross the Hurricane Gulch Bridge at mile 174. Although you'll cross over 40 bridges on your way from Anchorage to Fairbanks, this one is the most spectacular. The bridge soars over 200 feet above Hurricane Creek's white water. The longest bridge is over the Susitna River and measure over 1,000 feet long.

7. Enjoy nature at her best all along the Parks Highway. You'll find a wide range of outdoor recreational activities in Denali National Park and at other points along the highway. Choose from hiking, mountain biking, boat tours, kayaking and other activities.