Alaska Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems in the Last Frontier

By Renee Hamblin

Having spent the last five summer seasons working in tourism, I have learned a thing or two. Through countless conversations with tourist, I have tracked the most traveled 7 day route through Southeast Alaska. I know, if it’s your once in a lifetime trip there is a good argument to be made to visit Denali. But, if you have a feeling you’ll be back- think about checking out some of these beautiful places the second time around.

1. Glacier View, AK- More Reasons to Stop than just the view!

As you drive North on the Glenn Highway, you will crest the steep hill and all of a sudden behold the largest (foot access) glacier in North America- the Matanuska! This view alone is reason enough to stop. But this 20 mile stretch of highway offers a lot more than just life changing views. Glacier View is home to Alaska’s fastest zipline, luxury glamping experiences, ATVing, and the best burger in the state!

The thing to do: Take a helicopter to the only glamping experience on a glacier in the world!!!

2. McCarthy & Kennicott – A Remote Mining Town with a View

Tucked deep within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, McCarthy and Kennicott offer a glimpse into Alaska’s mining history and rugged wilderness. The drive alone, along the McCarthy Road, is an adventure—gravel roads, old railroad bridges, and sweeping views. Once there, explore the abandoned Kennicott Mine, hike to the Root Glacier, and enjoy the solitude of one of Alaska’s most remote towns.

The thing to do: Eat dinner at the Roadside Potato Head and get caught in fascinating conversation with locals.

3. Palmer Alaska- Beyond the Last Spot for Groceries

Most people’s only glimpse of this mountain town is a gas station on the left and a grocery store on the right. If you stop and take a side road, you’ll find adventure to be had. Up in the hill’s is Hatcher’s pass, an old mining valley chock full of wild blueberries. Or you can visit the Musk Ox Farm and learn about this gentle giants. With only 15,000 residents it is big enough for an Alaskan city and small enough to explore.

The thing to do: Take a guided hike with Revel Tours and end the day at a local brewery

4. Valdez- A mystical fishing town at the edge of the coast

Okay- I know, Valdez isn’t that hidden of a gem. But I am surprised how many folks don’t make the trip all the way to the end of the highway to take sight of Keystone Canyon, arguably the prettiest stretch of road AK has to offer. At the end of the drive is a coastal town similar to some Kenai fishing towns but quieter with less feelings of tourist traps.

The thing to do: Take a kayak trip right up to the foot of a glacier!

5. The Arctic Coast – Barrow & Kaktovik for Polar Bears

If you’re looking for an Arctic adventure, head north to Barrow or Kaktovik, where you can experience Inupiat culture and witness polar bears in the wild. Kaktovik, located on Barter Island, is one of the best places in the world to see these incredible animals up close as they wait for the sea ice to form.

The thing to do: Take a boat to see the bears up close and personal.

Final Thoughts

Alaska is known for its towering mountains, vast glaciers, and incredible wildlife. While many visitors flock to Denali, Anchorage, and the Inside Passage, there’s so much more to explore beyond the well-trodden paths.

Alaska’s beauty extends far beyond its famous destinations. If you’re willing to go off the beaten path, you’ll find places that few others have seen, from abandoned mining towns to volcanic landscapes and remote Arctic shores. Whether you’re looking for solitude, adventure, or wildlife encounters, Alaska’s hidden gems are waiting to be explored.

Have you ventured off the beaten path in Alaska? Share your experiences in the comments!