When embarking on a road trip to Alaska, the allure of its majestic landscapes and famous attractions like Denali National Park or the Kenai Fjords often takes center stage. However, the journey itself is filled with hidden gems and lesser-known stops that can enrich your adventure and provide unforgettable experiences. Here are some underrated stops along the Alcan and Cassiar highways that are worth exploring on your Alaska road trip.
Taking a walk down by the river while visiting the tiny town of Stewart. Photo by Dalton Johnson
PROS:
Authentic Experiences: Visiting hidden gems and lesser-known attractions allows travelers to experience a more authentic side of Alaska, away from tourist crowds and commercialized areas.
Unique Landscapes: These underrated stops often showcase unique landscapes, from azure lakes to towering glaciers, providing breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Cultural Insights: Many of these hidden gems offer insights into Alaska's indigenous cultures and heritage, providing a deeper understanding of the region's history and traditions.
Wildlife Encounters: Less-visited areas are often havens for wildlife, offering opportunities for spotting bears, eagles, moose, and other native species in their natural habitats.
Serene Atmosphere: Away from busy tourist routes, these hidden gems provide a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and reflection.
Adventure Opportunities: Some underrated stops offer unique adventure activities like hot springs soaking, glacier hiking, bear viewing, and kayaking, adding excitement to the journey.
CONS:
Limited Amenities: Some hidden gems may have limited facilities such as accommodations, restaurants, and services, requiring travelers to plan and prepare accordingly.
Remote Locations: Many of these underrated stops are in remote or less-developed areas, which may require longer driving times and careful navigation.
Weather Challenges: Alaska's weather can be unpredictable, especially in remote areas, so travelers should be prepared for changing conditions and potential challenges.
Road Conditions: Some routes to hidden gems may have rough or unpaved sections, requiring vehicles with good clearance and driving skills, particularly in inclement weather.
Less Information Available: Compared to popular tourist destinations, there may be less information available about these hidden gems, requiring travelers to do more research and rely on local knowledge.
Seasonal Limitations: Certain activities or attractions at hidden gems may be seasonal, so travelers should plan their visit accordingly to maximize their experience.
1. Muncho Lake Provincial Park
Nestled in British Columbia along the Alaska Highway, Muncho Lake Provincial Park is a hidden gem renowned for its stunning azure waters, picturesque mountains, and abundant wildlife. Take a break from driving and indulge in activities like fishing for lake trout or hiking along scenic trails that offer panoramic views.
2. Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park
Located near Muncho Lake, Liard River Hot Springs is a natural oasis where you can soak in warm mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush boreal forest. It's a perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate after hours on the road, and the unique ecosystem around the springs adds to the experience.
3. Kluane National Park and Reserve
As you traverse the Alaska Highway in the Yukon, make a stop at Kluane National Park and Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park boasts towering mountains, vast icefields, and diverse wildlife, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and even flightseeing tours for a bird's-eye view of the majestic landscapes.
4. Stewart-Cassiar Scenic Byway
Venture off the Alaska Highway onto the Stewart-Cassiar Scenic Byway, a lesser-traveled route that rewards with rugged beauty and hidden treasures. Along the way, you'll encounter gems like the Bear Glacier Provincial Park, where you can witness the impressive Bear Glacier and explore its surrounding trails.
5. Salmon Glacier
A detour from the Stewart-Cassiar Byway leads to the breathtaking Salmon Glacier, one of the largest glaciers accessible by road in North America. The panoramic views of the glacier cascading down the mountainside are awe-inspiring and offer a glimpse into the region's glacial history.
6. Hyder, Alaska
For a taste of authentic Alaskan charm, visit the small town of Hyder, known as "The Friendliest Ghost Town in Alaska." Despite its diminutive size, Hyder offers big adventures like bear viewing at Fish Creek during the salmon run season and exploring nearby wilderness areas.
7. Totem Bight State Historical Park
Near Ketchikan, Totem Bight State Historical Park is a cultural gem showcasing intricately carved totem poles that provide insight into Alaska's indigenous heritage. Stroll through the park's forested trails adorned with these artistic marvels and learn about the stories they tell.
8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve
While not exactly a hidden gem, Wrangell-St. Elias is often overshadowed by more popular parks. Yet, it's the largest national park in the United States, offering unparalleled opportunities for wilderness exploration, from glacier hikes to wildlife spotting in a vast and rugged landscape.
9. Haines
Accessible by ferry from Skagway or by road, Haines is a charming town nestled between mountains and the sea. Explore its rich cultural heritage at the Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center, or venture into the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve for birdwatching and scenic river views.
10. Kenai Peninsula
While the Kenai Peninsula is a well-known destination, its lesser-explored corners hide gems like the Russian River Falls, where you can witness salmon leaping upstream, or the coastal town of Seward, offering opportunities for kayaking among glaciers and wildlife cruises.
A stunning lake and camping spot near Portage Lake along the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. Photo by Dalton Johnson
These hidden gems and underrated stops along the Alcan and Cassiar highways add depth and diversity to your road trip to Alaska, allowing you to uncover the lesser-known but equally captivating facets of this awe-inspiring region.