Stretching 203 miles through Alaska’s breathtaking interior, the George Parks Highway Scenic Byway connects Denali State Park’s Chulitna River Bridge to Fairbanks via the Steese Highway. This National Scenic Byway delivers some of North America’s most spectacular wilderness scenery.

The journey begins with dramatic views of the Alaska Range, where Denali—North America’s tallest peak at 20,310 feet—dominates the horizon on clear days. Travelers pass through boreal forests of spruce and birch, cross braided rivers fed by ancient glaciers, and traverse rolling tundra landscapes that blaze with autumn color.

Key stops include Denali National Park’s entrance, where wildlife viewing opportunities abound—watch for moose, caribou, grizzly bears, and wolves. The tiny community of Nenana offers a glimpse into Athabascan culture and the famous Nenana Ice Classic. As you approach Fairbanks, the landscape opens into the Tanana Valley flats.

Best time to visit: Mid-May through mid-September offers the most accessible driving conditions and longest daylight hours—experience the midnight sun in June.

Allow: A minimum of 4-5 hours for the drive alone, though 2-3 days lets you properly explore Denali and roadside attractions. Pull-offs throughout provide perfect spots for photography and wildlife spotting.

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