Best Motorcycle Roads & Destinations in Alaska, United States

• Table of Contents
• 1. Introduction
• 2. Best Roads and Destinations in Alaska
  • 2.1 Anchorage to Fairbanks
  • 2.2 Taylor Highway to the Alaska Highway Junction
  • 2.3 Delta Junction to Fairbanks
  • 2.4 Alaska Highway Route 2 - Delta Junction to the Canadian Border
  • 2.5 Anchorage to Seward
  • 2.6 Eklutna Lake Road
  • 2.7 Kennicott Mine
• 3. Motorcycle Laws in Alaska
  • 3.1 Alaska Motorcycle Helmet Laws
  • 3.2 Alaska Motorcycle Passenger Laws
  • 3.3 Alaska Motorcycle Equipment Requirements
  • 3.4 Alaska Lane Splitting Laws
• 4. Parting Words

1. Introduction

If you are interested in taking your motorcycle to the farthest northern region of the United States, you will find no shortage of fun routes to travel on in Alaska or “the Last Frontier.” Since much of the landscape is left untouched, you will traverse long, lonely roads that travel through Alaska’s mountains, forests, and coastlines. This territory is recommended for experienced riders since the untamed wilderness means not all of the roads will be paved. You also have to take into consideration the lack of lodging and roadside amenities. But if you are seeking a challenge and believe you can handle riding a motorcycle for hours on end, then Alaska is the perfect place for you to visit.

This article is intended to provide a list of Alaska’s famous motorcycle roads and destinations including supplementary information on this state’s motorcycle laws.

2. Best Roads and Destinations in Alaska

2.1. Anchorage to Fairbanks

Starting in Anchorage, you can begin winding northward along Route 1 which will coast along the western edge of Chugach State Park and the eastern coast of the Knik Arm. Riding straight north into the wetlands, you will pass over the Knik River and the Matanuska River. After you continue straight north, you will eventually turn westward by transitioning onto Route 3.

Distance: 349 miles
Time: 6 hours 6 minutes
Start: Anchorage
End: Fairbanks

For the initial stretch of Route 3 heading straight west, you will pass by the Museum of Alaska Transportation, Lucille Lake, Lilly Lake, Lake Corcoran, and Herkimer Lake. The route will begin to turn slowly northwest which will pass by the northeast corner of Nancy Lake State Recreation Area.

As the route begins to straighten out as you travel northward, you will pass by Willow Creek State Recreational Area. You will also travel parallel to the Susitna River which travels alongside the far eastern edge of the Lake Clark Preserve & Wilderness. After temporarily leaving the wilderness behind, you will enter Denali State Park.

Swerving along on Route 3, you will coast around the perimeter of the Denali National Park & Preserve. Along your right-hand side, you may be able to make out Hess Mountain, Mt. Balchen, and Mt. Shand in the distance. Drawing closer to Fairbanks, you will be just outside of the Chena River State Recreation Area.

2.2. Taylor Highway to the Alaska Highway Junction

Departing from Tetlin Junction, you will begin to swerve northward via Route 5. You will pass through the outlying eastern region of the Tanana Valley State Forest. After you have left the dense Alaskan wilderness behind, you will continue to wind along Route 5.

Distance: 65 miles
Time: 1 hour 26 minutes
Start: Tetlin Junction
End: Chicken

The rest of the route will pass over hilly terrain, but luckily most of the road is well paved which will make for a smooth ride. If you require a rest break, this route has plenty of turnouts and pull-offs where you can park your motorcycle for a short time.

As you draw closer to Chicken, you should be able to make out Mt. Fairplay in the distance. When you arrive at Chicken, you should be able to grab a bite to eat at Chicken Creek Café. You also will have the chance to check out Pedro Dredge.

2.3. Delta Junction to Fairbanks

After leaving Delta Junction, you will travel parallel to Tanana River which will curve towards the northwest. You will pass just outside the perimeter of the outlying western region of the Tanana Valley State Forest. Continuing to wind around Route 2, you will come close to the Harding-Birch Lakes.

Distance: 95 miles
Time: 1 hour 34 minutes
Start: Delta Junction
End: Fairbanks

Continuing to head northwest, you will be within the vicinity of Harding Lake and Harding Lake State Recreation Area. You should be able to make out the highest mountain in North America known as Denali.

Arriving in Fairbanks, you will have the chance to check out Shedden Memorial Park and Pioneer Park. Most of the road can be characterized by long sweepers with stretches of straight pavement, all traveling over a mix of flat and hilly terrain.

2.4. Alaska Highway Route 2 - Delta Junction to the Canadian Border

Embarking from Delta Junction, you will head southeast via Route 2 which will have you both skirting around and passing through Tanana Valley State Forest. You will also travel parallel to the Tanana River as you ride atop the Alaska Highway.

Distance: 197 miles
Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Start: Delta Junction
End: Alcan Border

Further along, after getting farther away from Tanana Valley State Forest, you will swerve alongside several bodies of water including Midway Lake, Long Lake, Fish Lake, Yarger Lake, and Deadman Lake.

As you approach the end of the route, you will stop at the United States-Canada border around a region of small, scattered ponds known as the Alcan Border. Most of the road is characterized as having long sweepers with stretches of straight pavement while traveling over hilly terrain. Keep an eye out for local wildlife including bears, moose, and caribou that may be crossing the road.

2.5. Anchorage to Seward

Departing from Anchorage, you will begin to head southward via Route 1 which will take you beside Far North Bicentennial Park as you proceed to leave the city. Continuing along Route 1, you will coast around the Turnagain Arm while you travel through Chugach State Park.

Distance: 127 miles
Time: 2 hours 24 minutes
Start: Anchorage
End: Seward

As you clear the bend at the inlet of the Turnagain Arm, you will pass through the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. You will navigate the rocky and hilly terrain within the heart of the Kenai Peninsula.

Continuing to head straight south, you will pass through Moose Pass, Crown Point, Primrose, and Bear Creek before you arrive in Seward. Upon making it to your final destination, you should be able to discern the Kenai Fjords National Park in the distance.

2.6. Eklutna Lake Road

Within the vicinity of Eklutna, you have the chance to check out either Eklutna Historical Park or hike up Thunderbird Falls. Departing from Eklutna, you will turn southeast along Eklutna Lake Road after transitioning from Glenn Highway.

Distance: 26 miles
Time: 53 minutes
Start: Eklutna
End: Serenity Falls

As you travel into the northern region of Chugach State Park, you will ride down into the bottom of the Eklutna River Valley. The region is surrounded by Pioneer Peak and Twin Peaks. Keep an eye out for any local wildlife including bears, moose, and mountain goats.

For the final stretch of the route, you will travel along the coast of Eklutna Lake before you arrive at the end where you will be within view of Serenity Falls. Although the road is very narrow and twisty as you traverse the Alaskan wilderness, the paved surface makes for an interesting experience.

2.7. Kennicott Mine

If you wish to explore Chitina, you have the opportunity to check out the wares at the Chitina Tin Shop or get a drink at Uncle Tom’s Tavern. Departing towards the east, you will travel atop McCarthy Road.

Distance: 30 miles
Time: 2 hours
Start: Chitina
End: Jeep Trail, Chitina

Crossing over into the wilderness, you will navigate almost straight eastward as you pass by Silver Lake. Upon making it to Strelna, you will turn northward via Trail Access Road. As you continue to make your way, you will have the option of hiking up Nugget Creek Trail and Dixie Pass Trail.

Approaching the end of the route, you will find yourself on Jeep Trail. In the distance on your right-hand side, you should be able to make out East Blackburn and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve.

3. Motorcycle Laws in Alaska

3.1. Alaska Motorcycle Helmet Laws

If you are under the age of 18, it is dictated by Alaskan law that you wear either a three-quarter, full-face, or half helmet. Even if you are aged 18 or above, having protective gear for your head can make all the difference between life and death.

If you prefer feeling the wind against your face and being able to breathe easier, you can select either the three-quarter or half helmet. If you wish for protection encompassing your entire head, you should go with the full-face helmet.

Remember that a motorcycle helmet increases the odds of you walking away from a collision without severe damage to your head. However, it cannot completely absorb the impact of an extreme, high-speed accident. So, remember to take care.

3.2. Alaska Motorcycle Passenger Laws

If your motorcycle passenger is a minor, s/he must have a motorcycle helmet on when in Alaska. However, there are no other guidelines related to the age of your motorcycle passenger.

You will have to make modifications so that your passenger can be fitted on your ride. This includes a passenger seat placed either behind or alongside the operator. You will also have to install handholds and footrests.

3.3. Alaska Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

If you are a resident of Alaska, you will have to submit your motorcycle to a state-approved inspection station. It is possible to check the condition of your motorcycle at home, but it is best to get the opinion of an experienced mechanic.

Before embarking on a trip, it is recommended you look for any technical problems your motorcycle may have. Pay attention to the components that help you stay aware of your surroundings, help you maneuver safely, and make you visible to other drivers.

3.4. Alaska Lane Splitting Laws

Lane splitting is not permitted in Alaska because of the risk it poses to both motorcyclists and other drivers.

If you want an in-depth analysis of Alaska’s motorcycles laws, click the link to the article here.

4. Parting Words

Before your Alaska motorcycle trip can even begin, you must gather the motorcycle attire that will mitigate scrapes. Remember the essentials to keep your passenger safe and resist the temptation to try dangerous maneuvers.

You may be heading to Alaska because you have been waiting for the chance to explore a specific highway or location you have heard about. You may go to Alaska because you think it is the perfect site to sharpen your riding capabilities.

Try to make the most out of your Alaska motorcycle trip, and you are guaranteed to have a good time.