SOUTHCENTRAL HIGHLIGHTS ROAD TRIP An area the size of Belgium, the Kenai Peninsula is a wilderness playground filled with glacial rivers, hiking trails through the Chugach mountain range, artsy towns, and the massive Harding Icefield. It has two scenic highways, along with the southern terminus of the Alaska Railroad in Seward. THE PENINSULA PHOTOGRAPH DENALI FROM EXPLORE TALKEETNA Anchorage is the hub of the region, and indeed much of the state–most folks who visit pass through here. Dine in its excellent restaurants serving fresh local seafood, have a drink at the distillery, hike one of many gorgeous trails, and don’t miss the Anchorage Museum or Alaska Native Heritage Center. State of AK/Michael DeYoung (Kenai, Prince William Sound), State of AK/Matt Hage (cabbage) ANCHORAGE An artsy backcountry hamlet, Talkeetna is the jumping-off point for climbers seeking Denali’s summit. It’s the perfect place to get face-to-face with the tallest mountain in North America on a flightseeing tour, or explore local arts and crafts. A ride on the Alaska Railroad is a wonderful way to arrive. GET OFF THE With only three towns dotted across its 10,000 square miles, it’s easy to experience true solitude in Prince William Sound. Tidewater glaciers, secluded Forest Service cabins, and Copper River salmon are just some of the delights. Valdez and Whitter can be accessed by road and ferry, while Cordova is only accessible by plane or ferry. BEATEN TRACK GAWK AT MASSIVE PRODUCE The Matanuska-Susitna (“Mat-Su”) Valley is famous for the giant vegetables it produces thanks to the long summer sun: the cabbage record is 138 pounds. One of the best places to view this impressive produce is at the Alaska State Fair in Palmer in late summer. Other popular sights include Hatcher Pass, the Matanuska and Knik Glaciers, and the towering Pioneer Peak. TRAVELALASKA.COM 31
Alaska Official State Vacation Planner 2024: Page 31
