Iconic American Scenic Road Trips

William and Hui Cha Stanek

William and Hui Cha Stanek have carefully crafted these unforgettable road trips, each revealing the most scenic routes across the USA, Canada, and US Territories. But these journeys offer more than just breathtaking views - they're about the stories, experiences, and connections that make each trip truly special.

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(October 10, 2024) Iconic American Scenic Road Trip Guide: 9-Day Ultimate Alaska Highway Road Trip Guide from Vancouver, BC to Anchorage, AK

 

Route: Vancouver, BC to Dawson Creek, BC to Fairbanks, AK to Anchorage, AK
Highlights: Rocky Mountains, Liard River Hot Springs, Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park
Theme: Wilderness Adventure and Scenic Beauty


Introduction

Embark on an epic journey along the historic Alaska Highway, starting from the vibrant city of Vancouver, British Columbia. This road trip will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, lush hot springs, and the stunning wilderness of Alaska. Join William and Hui Cha Stanek as they share their personal experiences and expert tips for an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the North American wilderness.


Personal Insights from William Stanek

"The Alaska Highway is more than just a road; it's a journey through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in North America. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the remote beauty of Alaska's national parks, every mile offers a new adventure. Hui Cha and I have traversed this route many times, capturing the essence of the wild. We're excited to share this adventure with you, offering insights and tips to make your trip truly memorable."


Day 1: Vancouver, BC to Kamloops, BC

Morning: Departure from Vancouver

Overview: Begin your adventure in Vancouver, British Columbia. Known for its stunning waterfront, diverse culture, and vibrant city life, Vancouver is the perfect starting point for your epic road trip.

Tips from William: "Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Medina cafe. Their delicious dishes and cozy atmosphere will energize you for the journey ahead."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Vancouver, take in the urban scenery and watch as it gradually transforms into the stunning landscapes of British Columbia.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Head northeast towards Kamloops, driving through the beautiful Fraser Valley and into the rugged terrain of the Thompson-Okanagan region.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

Photography Tips: "Capture the rugged landscapes and river views from Hell's Gate Airtram with a wide-angle lens. Early morning light enhances the natural beauty of the area."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Hope to explore the outdoor art carvings and enjoy a coffee. The charming town and scenic river views provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Kamloops, BC

Dining Recommendations:

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Brownstone Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Kamloops

Overview: Arrive in Kamloops in the afternoon. Known for its rugged landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor activities, Kamloops offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

Photography Tips: "Riverside Park is best photographed in the late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the gardens and river views."

Immersive Experience: Walk through Riverside Park and enjoy the beautiful gardens and peaceful river views. The combination of natural beauty and vibrant city life creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Kamloops

Accommodation Options:

Immersive Experience: Stay at Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops and enjoy the charming accommodations and modern amenities. The hotel's proximity to the city allows for easy exploration.


Day 2: Kamloops, BC to Dawson Creek, BC

Morning: Departure from Kamloops

Overview: Leave the vibrant city of Kamloops and head north to Dawson Creek, the official starting point of the Alaska Highway. The drive will take you through the scenic Cariboo region and into the Peace River Valley.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day on the Alaska Highway. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Kamloops, the landscape gradually changes from rugged terrain to the rolling hills and forests of the Cariboo region.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Dawson Creek, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

Photography Tips: "Williams Lake is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the lakes and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Williams Lake for a coffee and stretch your legs. The charming town and beautiful lakes provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Dawson Creek, BC

Dining Recommendations:

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Fixx Urban Grill. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Dawson Creek

Overview: Arrive in Dawson Creek in the afternoon. Known as the official starting point of the Alaska Highway, Dawson Creek offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities.

Must-See Spots:

Photography Tips: "The Mile 0 Post is best photographed in the late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the iconic landmark and surrounding scenery."

Immersive Experience: Walk through the Alaska Highway House and learn about the history of this iconic route. The combination of history and culture creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Dawson Creek

Accommodation Options:

Immersive Experience: Stay at Stonebridge Hotel Dawson Creek and enjoy the charming accommodations and modern amenities. The hotel's proximity to the city allows for easy exploration.


Day 3: Dawson Creek, BC to Fort Nelson, BC

Morning: Departure from Dawson Creek

Overview: Leave the historic starting point of the Alaska Highway and head north to Fort Nelson. The drive will take you through the beautiful Peace River Valley and into the remote wilderness of northern British Columbia.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day on the Alaska Highway. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Dawson Creek, the landscape gradually changes from rolling hills to the remote wilderness of northern British Columbia.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Fort Nelson, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

Photography Tips: "Charlie Lake is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the lake and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Fort St. John for a coffee and stretch your legs. The charming town and beautiful parks provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Fort Nelson, BC

Dining Recommendations:

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Boston Pizza. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Fort Nelson

Overview: Arrive in Fort Nelson in the afternoon. Known for its rich history and remote wilderness, Fort Nelson offers a mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities.

Must-See Spots:

Photography Tips: "The Fort Nelson Heritage Museum is best photographed in the late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the historic buildings and surrounding scenery."

Immersive Experience: Walk through the Fort Nelson Heritage Museum and learn about the history of this remote town. The combination of history and culture creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Fort Nelson

Accommodation Options:

Immersive Experience: Stay at Lakeview Inns & Suites - Fort Nelson and enjoy the charming accommodations and modern amenities. The hotel's proximity to the town allows for easy exploration.


Day 4: Fort Nelson, BC to Watson Lake, YT

Morning: Departure from Fort Nelson

Overview: Leave the remote wilderness of Fort Nelson and head north to Watson Lake, Yukon Territory. The drive will take you through the stunning landscapes of the Northern Rockies.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day on the Alaska Highway. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Fort Nelson, the landscape gradually changes from remote wilderness to the rugged beauty of the Northern Rockies.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Watson Lake, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

Photography Tips: "Muncho Lake is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains."

Immersive Experience: Stop at Liard River Hot Springs for a relaxing soak. The beautiful hot springs and wildlife viewing opportunities provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Watson Lake, YT

Dining Recommendations:

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Andrea's Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Watson Lake

Overview: Arrive in Watson Lake in the afternoon. Known for its unique Sign Post Forest and remote wilderness, Watson Lake offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities.

Must-See Spots:

Photography Tips: "The Sign Post Forest is best photographed in the late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the signs and surrounding scenery."

Immersive Experience: Walk through the Sign Post Forest and explore the unique signs from around the world. The combination of history and culture creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Watson Lake

Accommodation Options:

Immersive Experience: Stay at Air Force Lodge and enjoy the charming accommodations and modern amenities. The lodge's proximity to the town allows for easy exploration.


Day 5: Watson Lake, YT to Whitehorse, YT

Morning: Departure from Watson Lake

Overview: Leave the unique attractions of Watson Lake and head west to Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon Territory. The drive will take you through the stunning landscapes of the Yukon.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day on the Alaska Highway. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Watson Lake, the landscape gradually changes from remote wilderness to the beautiful landscapes of the Yukon.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Whitehorse, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

Photography Tips: "Teslin Lake is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the lake and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Stop at Rancheria Falls for a short hike and take in the beauty of the waterfall. The beautiful landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Whitehorse, YT

Dining Recommendations:

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Klondike Rib & Salmon. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Whitehorse

Overview: Arrive in Whitehorse in the afternoon. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Whitehorse offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

Photography Tips: "Miles Canyon is best photographed in the late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the canyon and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Walk through the MacBride Museum of Yukon History and learn about the rich history of Whitehorse and the Yukon. The combination of history and culture creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Whitehorse

Accommodation Options:

Immersive Experience: Stay at Edgewater Hotel and enjoy the charming accommodations and modern amenities. The hotel's proximity to the city allows for easy exploration.


Day 6: Whitehorse, YT to Tok, AK

Morning: Departure from Whitehorse

Overview: Leave the vibrant city of Whitehorse and head west to Tok, Alaska. The drive will take you through the stunning landscapes of the Yukon and into Alaska.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day on the Alaska Highway. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Whitehorse, the landscape gradually changes from beautiful landscapes to the rugged beauty of Alaska.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Tok, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

Photography Tips: "Kluane National Park is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the glaciers and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Stop at Kluane National Park for a short hike and take in the beauty of the park. The stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Tok, AK

Dining Recommendations:

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Fast Eddy's Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Tok

Overview: Arrive in Tok in the afternoon. Known as the gateway to Alaska, Tok offers a mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities.

Must-See Spots:

Photography Tips: "The Tok River State Recreation Site is best photographed in the late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the river and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Walk through the Tok Mainstreet Visitors Center and learn about the history and attractions of Tok. The combination of history and culture creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Tok

Accommodation Options:

Immersive Experience: Stay at Golden Bear Motel and enjoy the charming accommodations and modern amenities. The motel's proximity to the town allows for easy exploration.


Day 7: Tok, AK to Fairbanks, AK

Morning: Departure from Tok

Overview: Leave the gateway to Alaska and head west to Fairbanks, Alaska. The drive will take you through the stunning landscapes of the Interior Alaska.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day on the Alaska Highway. The drive is long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Tok, the landscape gradually changes from rugged beauty to the vibrant city of Fairbanks.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Fairbanks, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

Photography Tips: "Delta Junction is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the Alaska Range and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Stop in North Pole for a coffee and explore the Christmas-themed attractions. The charming town and beautiful parks provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Fairbanks, AK

Dining Recommendations:

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at The Crepery. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Fairbanks

Overview: Arrive in Fairbanks in the afternoon. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Fairbanks offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

Photography Tips: "The Chena River State Recreation Area is best photographed in the late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the river and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Walk through the University of Alaska Museum of the North and learn about the rich history and culture of Alaska. The combination of history and culture creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Fairbanks

Accommodation Options:

Immersive Experience: Stay at River's Edge Resort and enjoy the charming accommodations and modern amenities. The resort's proximity to the city allows for easy exploration.


Day 8: Fairbanks, AK to Denali National Park, AK

Morning: Departure from Fairbanks

Overview: Leave the vibrant city of Fairbanks and head south to the stunning Denali National Park. The drive will take you through the beautiful landscapes of the Alaska Range.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day in Denali National Park. The drive is relatively short but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Fairbanks, the landscape gradually changes from urban cityscapes to the rugged beauty of Denali National Park.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Denali National Park, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

Photography Tips: "Denali State Park is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of Denali and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Nenana for a coffee and explore the beautiful river views. The charming town and historic sites provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Denali National Park, AK

Dining Recommendations:

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at 49th State Brewing Company. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Denali National Park

Overview: Arrive at Denali National Park in the afternoon. Known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and towering Denali, the park offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

Photography Tips: "Wonder Lake is best photographed at sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and dramatic lighting."

Immersive Experience: Hike through Denali National Park and take in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The combination of natural beauty and outdoor adventure creates a magical experience.

Evening: Overnight in Denali National Park

Accommodation Options:

Immersive Experience: Stay at Denali Backcountry Lodge and enjoy the charming accommodations and rustic elegance. The lodge's proximity to the park allows for easy exploration.


Day 9: Denali National Park, AK to Anchorage, AK

Morning: Departure from Denali National Park

Overview: Leave the stunning landscapes of Denali National Park and head south to the vibrant city of Anchorage. The drive will take you through the beautiful landscapes of the Alaska Range and into the city.

Tips from William: "Leave early to make the most of your day in Anchorage. The drive is relatively long but incredibly scenic."

Immersive Experience: As you leave Denali National Park, the landscape gradually changes from rugged beauty to the urban cityscapes of Anchorage.

Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive

Overview: Enjoy the scenic drive to Anchorage, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Recommended Scenic Stops:

Photography Tips: "Matanuska Glacier is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the beauty of the glacier and surrounding landscapes."

Immersive Experience: Stop in Talkeetna for a coffee and explore the vibrant arts scene. The charming town and beautiful views provide a perfect break on your journey.

Lunch: Anchorage, AK

Dining Recommendations:

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Glacier Brewhouse. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food provide a perfect midday break.

Afternoon: Exploring Anchorage

Overview: Arrive in Anchorage in the afternoon. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Anchorage offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Must-See Spots:

Photography Tips: "The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is best photographed at sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and dramatic lighting."

Immersive Experience: Walk through the Anchorage Museum and learn about the rich history and culture of Alaska. The combination of history and culture creates a unique experience.

Evening: Overnight in Anchorage

Accommodation Options:

Immersive Experience: Stay at Hotel Captain Cook and enjoy the charming accommodations and historic elegance. The hotel's proximity to the city allows for easy exploration.


Conclusion - Personal Reflections from William Stanek

As our 9-day epic road trip along the Alaska Highway comes to an end, I am reminded of the incredible beauty and diversity of this region. From the vibrant city of Vancouver to the remote wilderness of the Yukon and Alaska, every stop offered something unique and unforgettable. Hui Cha and I have been fortunate to experience and capture these moments, and we hope that our insights inspire you to embark on your own adventure. Travel responsibly, embrace the natural beauty, and let the spirit of the Alaska Highway elevate your journey. Safe travels!

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