Rent a car in Alaska?

Q: I want to visit Alaska in August and would like to just rent a car to explore the state. But is that really a good idea? What are the best places to go? --Olga

A: Olga, I think it's a wonderful idea! So many people think that a cruise is the only way to see Alaska, but the reality is that you can see and do so much more going by land. Renting a car gives you the ultimate freedom and flexibility. August is a great time to visit, too—temperatures in Alaska’s most popular destinations average in the 60s during that month.

For starters, I recommend flying to Anchorage, our biggest city, which is an easy launching pad to a variety of locations. There are two classic national parks near Anchorage: 2.5 hours south is Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park, where the right Kenai Fjords day cruise can get you face-to-face with the best of our marine environment, such as sea otters, puffins and maybe even whales, along with tidewater glaciers crashing into the ocean. Then, 4.5 hours north is Denali National Park, where you'll see the best of our land: a dramatic, endless landscape; Mt. McKinley and the highest peaks in North America (clouds permitting); and the "Big Five" of possible wildlife sightings—bear, moose, sheep, caribou and wolves.

Renting a car in Alaska covers the logistics of driving in Alaska and explains why it makes good sense. See the Alaska Transportation Guide for tips on where to go and how long each drive takes. Once you've decided where you want to go, the page Alaska Highway Drives from Anchorage tells you key sites and attractions along the way.

 

Comments

[Bruce Gallion]

Bob,

My wife an I are planning a vacation in Alaska for August 2010. We previously visted the Keani, it was great, but now we want to head north. Option 1. Rent a car, stay at lodges along the way. Option 2. Rent an RV stay at RV parks along the way. Both open up many questions, where to stay, how many nights, what is the cost comparrison. I like the RV idea, she likes the Lodge / motel idea. Our trip plans are rough, leave Anchorage head north to Fairbanks, to Tok, to Glennallen, and finnally back to Anchorage. Dinali is a must. Can you help. thanks Bruce