Best Motorcycle Tours and Routes in Alaska
Evan Rally
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Alaska offers motorcyclists unparalleled adventures with its breathtaking mountain passes and expansive wilderness. This is a place you can truly get off the grid, but that means you also need to be prepared and capable to enjoy it safely. The prime riding season spans from June to mid-August, providing milder temperatures and extended daylight hours. In Alaska, helmets are required for riders under 18, those with instructional permits, and all passengers.
Alaska’s rugged terrain make it the adventure rider’s dream, but it also has plenty of highway and paved country roads so road riders can enjoy it to the fullest.
Did we miss your favorite Alaska tour or riding route? Let us know in the comments!
Tours & Guided Rides in Alaska
If you’re not sure what to see or want the backup of a support crew and seasoned Alaska explorers, take a look at these guided tours covering renowned routes that showcase Alaska’s unparalleled natural beauty.
EagleRider’s Alaska Gold Rush North – Exclusive H-D Pan America Guided Tour
This 15-day guided journey starts in Seattle and covers approximately 3,130 miles through Denali National Park, the Alaska Highway, and British Columbia. Riders traverse diverse terrains, from rugged landscapes to expansive wilderness, all aboard the Harley-Davidson Pan America adventure bike. Eaglerider offers this heading South as well, starting from Anchorage and ending in Seattle.
MotoQuest’s Prudhoe Bay Adventure
Over 11 days, this fully supported tour leads riders from Anchorage to Prudhoe Bay on the northern coast of Alaska, offering a mix of paved and gravel roads. Participants experience the remote beauty of Alaska’s interior, with opportunities to spot wildlife and explore the Arctic Circle. MotoQuest offers several other Alaska tours as well.
Compass Expeditions’ True North Alaska
Spanning 16 days, this tour explores coastal fishing villages before venturing into Alaska’s vast interior. Highlights include riding the legendary Dalton Highway to Prudhoe Bay, witnessing massive glaciers, and traversing the tundra. Essentially a longer version of MotoQuest’s Prudhoe Bay Adventure.
For a more local vibe and a smaller group, check out options on Rider’s Share for local-led tours. There are a few tours available now, from day rides to 6 day trips.
Ready to embark on an Alaskan motorcycle adventure? Contact It’s Better On The Road’s custom tour planning team to craft your unforgettable journey through the Last Frontier.
Great Motorcycle Routes in Alaska
Alaska offers motorcyclists a variety of scenic routes that showcase its breathtaking landscapes. Below are some of the state’s premier rides. Keep in mind that much of Alaska is wild and remote – cell service and emergency services may not be available, and road conditions can vary drastically from what you might read online.
Highway 1: Anchorage to Seward
- Estimated Distance & Ride Duration: Approximately 130 miles; around 2.5 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate.
- Road Conditions & Surface Type: Fully paved, well-maintained highway with sweeping curves and some steep grades.
The Seward Highway is one of the most scenic motorcycle rides in Alaska, tracing the coastline of Turnagain Arm before cutting through the Chugach Mountains. Riders begin in Anchorage and quickly find themselves on a route surrounded by towering peaks, glacier-fed rivers, and abundant wildlife. Along the way, stop at Beluga Point, a prime location for spotting beluga whales in the inlet, or take in the breathtaking views at McHugh Creek, a popular roadside waterfall and hiking spot. As the route winds past Summit Lake, motorcyclists will experience crisp mountain air and picture-perfect alpine scenery before reaching the historic fishing town of Seward, home to the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park and the Alaska SeaLife Center.
Glenn Highway
- Estimated Distance & Ride Duration: Approximately 180 miles; around 3.5 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate.
- Road Conditions & Surface Type: Primarily paved with some sections requiring caution due to weather-related wear.
The Glenn Highway stretches from Anchorage to Glennallen, offering riders panoramic views of the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains. Notable points of interest include the Matanuska Glacier, one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers, and Eureka Summit, the highway’s highest point at 3,332 feet, providing expansive vistas of the surrounding ranges.
Taylor Highway
- Estimated Distance & Ride Duration: Approximately 160 miles; about 5 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Advanced.
- Road Conditions & Surface Type: Combination of paved and gravel sections; conditions can be challenging, especially in adverse weather.
Connecting Tetlin Junction to the historic town of Eagle, the Taylor Highway traverses remote terrains rich in gold rush history. Riders can explore the quaint community of Chicken, known for its preserved frontier spirit, and the Fortymile River, a designated National Wild and Scenic River offering pristine natural beauty.
Haines Highway
- Estimated Distance & Ride Duration: Approximately 44 miles; about 1 hour.
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
- Road Conditions & Surface Type: Fully paved; generally well-maintained.
Connecting Haines, Alaska, to the Canadian border, the Haines Highway offers riders scenic views through the Chilkat River Valley and over the Chilkat Pass. Notable stops include the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, home to the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles, and the picturesque Three Guardsmen Lake.
Steese Highway
- Estimated Distance & Ride Duration: Approximately 151 miles; around 5 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Advanced.
- Road Conditions & Surface Type: Mix of paved and gravel sections; some areas can be rough.
Starting near Fairbanks and extending to the small community of Circle, the Steese Highway offers riders a journey through Alaska’s interior. Points of interest include the Chena River State Recreation Area, ideal for wildlife viewing, and Eagle Summit, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
Edgerton Highway and McCarthy Road
- Estimated Distance & Ride Duration: Approximately 65 miles; around 2 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
- Road Conditions & Surface Type: Edgerton Highway is paved; McCarthy Road is gravel and can be rough.
Starting from the Richardson Highway near Copper Center, the Edgerton Highway leads to Chitina, where it transitions into the McCarthy Road. This route follows the old railbed of the Copper River and Northwestern Railway, culminating near the historic Kennecott Mines. Points of interest include the Kuskulana Bridge, a 238-foot-high former railroad bridge offering dramatic views, and the abandoned Kennecott Copper Mine, a National Historic Landmark. From Anchorage to the Kennecott Mines is 311 miles and a 7 hour trip, so you might want to stay on the way in Chitina or nearby – but you get to the the Glenn Highway on the way.
Richardson Highway
- Estimated Distance & Ride Duration: Approximately 360 miles; about 6.5 hours ride time.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate.
- Road Conditions & Surface Type: Paved with occasional rough patches; well-maintained.
Extending from Valdez to Fairbanks, the Richardson Highway is Alaska’s oldest highway. Riders traverse diverse landscapes, including the Thompson Pass, renowned for its heavy snowfall and stunning vistas, and the Worthington Glacier, easily accessible for a close-up view.
The Big Loop: Anchorage to Fairbanks via Richardson and Denali
- Estimated Distance & Ride Duration: Approximately 800 miles; about 14 hours ride time.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate.
- Road Conditions & Surface Type: Paved with occasional rough patches; well-maintained.
This is the big Kahuna of Alaska, connecting the capital to the second largest city and historic gold rush town of Fairbanks. This is a highway cruise all around, but still includes epic scenery and great views of Mount Denali. You get to do the Glenn Highway and a good stretch of the Richardson Highway on this one.
Each of these routes offers a unique glimpse into Alaska’s vast and varied terrain, ensuring memorable experiences for motorcyclists seeking adventure in the Last Frontier.
Special Riding Areas in Alaska
Just about all of Alaska is a special riding area: anywhere you turn you’re bound to see epic mountains and landscapes. However, it’s equally punishing if you are not prepared to be without support. That’s why they call Alaska the Last Frontier!
Denali National Park and Preserve
Riding near Denali National Park provides unparalleled views of North America’s highest peak, Denali, towering at 20,310 feet. The surrounding areas offer a mix of paved and gravel roads, leading through alpine tundra and boreal forests, with frequent wildlife sightings. The Denali Highway, in particular, is a favorite among riders for its remote beauty and panoramic vistas.
Top of the World Highway
Stretching from Tok, Alaska, to Dawson City in the Yukon, this highway offers riders the sensation of cruising above the clouds. The route traverses ridge lines, providing expansive views of untouched wilderness and distant mountain ranges. Its unique elevation and scenery make it a bucket-list ride for many motorcyclists.
Chugach State Park and Turnagain Arm
Located near Anchorage, the Seward Highway winds along Turnagain Arm, flanked by the Chugach Mountains. This stretch is renowned for its dramatic coastal views, towering peaks, and opportunities to spot beluga whales and Dall sheep. The combination of mountain and ocean scenery offers a dynamic and memorable riding experience.
If you’re looking for an adventure in Alaska, the Rever route-finding app is an invaluable tool. It offers detailed maps, user-generated routes, and real-time navigation to enhance your Alaskan motorcycle adventure.
Renting a Motorcycle in Alaska
Exploring Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes on two wheels is an unforgettable experience, but it’s haul and a half to get your own motorcycle all the way up there. Thankfully, there are numerous rental outfits and options in Alaska to suit every kind of ride, whether you want to cruise the highways on a bagger or get into the gravel with an ADV bike.
EagleRider operates a location in Anchorage, giving you easy access to any of the routes listed above. They also have their Pan America 1250 adventure bike on offer, as well as Tri-Glide cruisers. EagleRider also provides one-way rentals, should you want to cruise all the way back to the continental USA!
If you’re looking for a more off-road capable option, or want to rent outside of Anchorage, check out Rider’s Share below.
Rider's Share for ADV bikes
Rider’s Share is a peer-to-peer motorcycle marketplace that offers not only cheaper rentals than EagleRider, but a wider selection of motorcycles in more diverse locations. You can rent an off-road ready KLR650, 2023 Tenere 700, or 2024 TransAlp or get a custom Sportster or BMW R 18 for road cruising. Right now they have 26 bikes available, with most in Anchorage but several in Fairbanks and even a 250cc dirtbike down in Homer, right on the water.
Rider’s Share rentals often come with gear too, as well as flexible booking options and insurance coverage, giving you peace of mind as you explore the Last Frontier.
To explore available motorcycles in Alaska, visit Rider’s Share Alaska Listings.
Whether you choose a traditional rental through EagleRider or opt for the diverse offerings on Rider's Share, Alaska's open roads and stunning vistas await your exploration.
Weather & Tips for Alaska Riding
Embarking on a motorcycle journey through Alaska requires thorough preparation due to its unique climate, road conditions, and wildlife. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan a safe and enjoyable ride.
Weather Patterns and Temperature Ranges by Season:
- Spring (March to May): Early spring remains cold, with temperatures gradually warming. In Anchorage, March temperatures average between -7.2°C (19°F) and -12.5°C (9.5°F). By May, temperatures can range from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F). Snow and ice may persist, especially in northern regions.
- Summer (June to August): The prime riding season, with milder temperatures and extended daylight. Anchorage experiences average highs of 18°C (64°F) to 22°C (72°F). However, weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain.
- Autumn (September to November): Temperatures begin to drop, and snowfall can start as early as October. In Anchorage, September temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F), decreasing significantly by November.
- Winter (December to February): Harsh conditions prevail, with heavy snowfall and temperatures often below freezing. In Fairbanks, January temperatures can plummet to -28.5°C (-19.3°F). Motorcycle riding is generally not recommended during this period.
Typical Road Conditions and Seasonal Closures:
Alaska's road conditions vary with the seasons. During winter, many roads are snow-covered and icy, making travel hazardous. The Alaska Department of Transportation classifies winter driving conditions as Good, Fair, Difficult, Very Difficult, Hazardous, or Road Closure. It's essential to check current road conditions before embarking on a trip.
Some high-elevation passes and remote roads may close seasonally due to snow. For instance, certain sections of the Denali Highway are not maintained during winter months. Always consult the Alaska Department of Transportation for the latest information on road closures and conditions.
What to Pack:
- Protective Gear: A DOT-approved helmet is mandatory for riders under 18, those with instructional permits, and all passengers. Even if not legally required, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for safety.
- Clothing: Layering is crucial due to fluctuating temperatures. Pack thermal undergarments, a moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer layer.
- Rain Gear: Sudden rain showers are common, even in summer. Waterproof jackets, pants, and gloves will keep you dry and comfortable.
- Heated Gear: For early spring, late autumn, or high-altitude rides, heated gloves and jackets can provide additional warmth.
- Accessories: Bring a high-visibility vest, sturdy riding boots, full-fingered gloves, and eye protection. A first aid kit and basic tool kit are also advisable.
Wildlife Concerns:
Alaska's abundant wildlife poses unique challenges for motorcyclists. Moose are particularly hazardous due to their size and tendency to wander onto roadways, especially during dawn and dusk. Collisions with moose can be fatal. Bears, deer, and other animals may also be encountered. Maintain a vigilant lookout, reduce speed in wildlife-prone areas, and be prepared to stop suddenly if necessary.
Laws: Helmets, Speed Limits and Lane-Splitting
Speed limits in Alaska vary depending on the area and road type. Adhere to posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road and weather conditions.
Lane splitting, the practice of riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Alaska. Motorcyclists must occupy a full lane and follow the same traffic rules as other vehicles.
As previously mentioned, Alaska requires helmets for riders under 18, those with instructional permits, and all passengers. Regardless of legal requirements, wearing a helmet is a critical safety measure for all riders.
By preparing adequately and staying informed about current conditions, you can enjoy a safe and memorable motorcycle adventure through Alaska's stunning landscapes.
Events & Rallies in Alaska
Alaska is not known for its rallies, but there are a few motorcycle-related events you may want to plan a trip around. You can find a list of upcoming events on CycleFish's Alaska Motorcycle Events Calendar.
Get to Riding in Alaska
Alaska is the ultimate frontier for motorcyclists seeking adventure, solitude, and jaw-dropping landscapes. With vast open highways, rugged mountain passes, and coastal roads hugging icy fjords, the Last Frontier offers some of the most breathtaking and challenging rides in the world. Whether you're cruising along the Seward Highway with its dramatic ocean views, tackling the Top of the World Highway, or exploring the remote wilderness of Denali National Park, every route in this vast state promises an unforgettable experience.
And with plenty of rental options, from EagleRider’s fleet to Rider’s Share’s flexible peer-to-peer options, it’s easier than ever to hit the road (or trail!)