The Perfect 12-Day Self-Drive Alaska Vacation: Denali, Kenai Peninsula, and Seward
Planning an Alaska adventure? Get ready for the trip of a lifetime! This 12-day self-drive itinerary takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes Alaska has to offer—from the vibrant city of Anchorage to the wild beauty of Denali National Park and the coastal wonders of the Kenai Peninsula. This road trip is perfect for those who want the freedom to explore at their own pace while still experiencing the best Alaska has to offer!
Day 1: Welcome to Anchorage!
You’ll fly into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. After landing, set aside about an hour to pick up your rental vehicle before heading out for your first adventure.Once you’ve got your car, take some time to explore Alaska's largest city. Stretch your legs with a stroll or bike along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, stop by the Anchorage Museum , or treat yourself to some local seafood at one of Anchorage’s amazing restaurants.
Day 2: Scenic Drive to Girdwood
Start your road trip with a gorgeous drive to Girdwood. Make sure to stop by the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see Alaska’s iconic animals up close, like bears, moose, musk ox, and wood bison. Once in Girdwood, hop on the aerial tram at Alyeska Resort for jaw-dropping views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains. Stay at the resort, and enjoy and evening of rejuvenations at Alaska’s only nordic spa.
Day 3: Head to Seward
Buckle up for one of the most scenic drives in Alaska—the Seward Highway! Take your time and enjoy the mountain views, and don’t forget to watch for the bore tide, and beluga whales in Turnagain Arm. Once in Seward, visit the Alaska SeaLife Center to learn about Alaska’s marine life, and stroll the Seward Small Boat Harbor before enjoying dinner at once of Seward’s fabulous local restaurants.
Day 4: Explore Kenai Fjords National Park
- **Adventure Day**: Spend the day exploring [Kenai Fjords National Park](https://www.alaskacollection.com/day-tours/kenai-fjords-tours/). Hike to Exit Glacier or, if you’re up for a challenge, try the Harding Icefield Trail for stunning views.
- **Relax in Town**: After a day of hiking, treat yourself to dinner at one of Seward’s local eateries and take a relaxing walk along the harbor.
- **Overnight**: Seward
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### **Day 5: Kayaking and Wildlife in Seward**
- **Get on the Water**: Dive deeper into Seward’s natural beauty with a full-day adventure. If you haven’t already, book the [Grand Day Wildlife Cruise & Glacier Kayak Tour](https://www.sunnycove.com/grand-day-wildlife-cruise-glacier-kayak-tour) for an unforgettable kayaking experience.
- **Evening in Seward**: After a day on the water, unwind with a drink at the Seward Brewing Company or enjoy fresh seafood at The Cookery.
- **Overnight**: Seward
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### **Day 6: Seward to Homer**
- **Drive Time**: 4 hours (157 miles)
- **On the Way**: As you drive south to Homer, take a break at [Russian River Falls](https://seward.com/) to see salmon leaping upstream during the season.
- **Homer Highlights**: Once you arrive in Homer, take a stroll down the [Homer Spit](https://www.alaska.org/) and visit the [Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center](https://www.alaska.org/). This artsy little town is known for its quirky vibe and incredible views.
- **Overnight**: Homer
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### **Day 7: Adventure in Homer**
- **Choose Your Adventure**: Book a bear-viewing flight tour to Katmai National Park or go kayaking in Kachemak Bay State Park. Homer is also a great spot to visit local art galleries or just relax by the bay.
- **Overnight**: Homer
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### **Day 8: Homer to Soldotna**
- **Drive Time**: 1.5 hours (75 miles)
- **Fishing Fun**: Drive to Soldotna, Alaska’s fishing capital! If you love fishing, you’ll definitely want to book a salmon fishing trip on the Kenai River. Visit the Soldotna Visitors Center for more ideas on what to do.
- **Overnight**: Soldotna
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### **Day 9: Back to Anchorage**
- **Drive Time**: 3 hours (154 miles)
- **On the Road**: Head back to Anchorage, but don’t forget to stop and enjoy the scenery. The drive offers plenty of places to stretch your legs, including the [Russian River Falls](https://www.sunnycove.com/).
- **Evening in Anchorage**: Once back in the city, enjoy one last evening exploring Anchorage’s local shops or restaurants.
- **Overnight**: Anchorage
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### **Day 10: Anchorage to Denali National Park**
- **Drive Time**: 4.5 hours (237 miles)
- **Denali Bound**: Hit the road early for the journey to Denali National Park. Stop in Talkeetna along the way to grab a bite to eat and maybe book a Denali flightseeing tour.
- **Overnight**: Denali
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### **Day 11: Explore Denali National Park**
- **Wildlife & Wilderness**: Spend your day exploring [Denali National Park](https://www.nps.gov/dena/index.htm). Take a shuttle into the park for a chance to see wildlife like grizzly bears, caribou, and moose. If you’re feeling active, hike one of the park’s many trails, such as the Savage River Loop.
- **Overnight**: Denali
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### **Day 12: Return to Anchorage and Vehicle Drop-off**
- **Drive Time**: 4.5 hours (237 miles)
- **Scenic Drive**: Make your way back to Anchorage, soaking in the last of Alaska’s breathtaking views. Allow for some extra time for photos or any last-minute stops.
- **Rental Car Drop-off**: Once you return to Anchorage, plan about an hour for dropping off your rental car at the airport before your flight.
- **Departure**: Fly out of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, ending your unforgettable 12-day Alaska adventure!
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### **Conclusion**
This 12-day self-drive adventure gives you the ultimate Alaskan experience—from the bustling city of Anchorage, the wild beauty of Denali, to the stunning coastline of the Kenai Peninsula. With three full days in Seward and the freedom to explore at your own pace, you’ll discover glaciers, wildlife, and rugged wilderness that will stay with you long after your journey ends. With plenty of time for rental pickups and drop-offs, you’ll enjoy a smooth and unforgettable trip through the heart of Alaska. Safe travels!
