A Road Through the Wild
Stretching across southcentral Alaska, the Glenn Highway links Anchorage to Glennallen over approximately 179 miles of rugged terrain and untamed beauty. Once a path for native Alaskans and gold seekers, the route has become one of the most picturesque drives in the country.
It winds through the Chugach Mountains, tracing the Matanuska River for much of the journey. Along the way, the road passes small communities, vast glacial valleys, and remote forest corridors. It’s not just a means of transportation—it’s a passage through one of the state’s most photogenic regions.
A Corridor of Movement and Discovery
Originally constructed in the 1940s to improve access to military installations, the Glenn Highway has evolved into a critical part of Alaska’s tourism and infrastructure. Today, it’s used by locals commuting between interior communities and travelers exploring the state’s natural diversity.
Paved but often narrow, the highway remains a favorite for those seeking less commercialized routes. Road conditions vary with the seasons, and traffic is minimal outside summer months. It’s a space where nature sets the pace.
Outdoor Activities Along the Way
The Glenn Highway is more than a scenic drive—it’s a portal to active exploration. Visitors can:
- Walk on a Glacier at Matanuska, where ice trekking is accessible.
- Ski Cross-Country on groomed trails near the highway’s forested edges.
- Enjoy Snowmachining in deep winter zones just off the roadside.
- Explore the Backcountry beyond trailheads.
- Go River Rafting in Matanuska’s Class III rapids.
- Have Fun Fishing in river bends or alpine lakes.
- Hike across a mix of marked trails and wild subalpine meadows, where paths fade into open terrain.
- See Wildlife from pullouts or quiet creek banks.
Why It Stands Out
The Glenn Highway offers flexibility. It’s close enough to Anchorage for a day trip but remote enough to feel like an escape. Travelers can engage in short stops or spend days moving from glacier to forest trail. Unlike highways serving cruise tourism, this corridor remains under-traveled, preserving its character.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Glenn Highway isn’t just a drive—it’s a base camp.