First time traveler to Alaska, should be entering Alaska from Whitehorse about mid June. Any thoughts on the preferred circle route - directly to Fairbanks then down to Anchorage, Kenai or the reverse of that.

We took the turn to Fairbanks first, but I don't know if it makes much of a difference either way. Have a great trip.

We have made the trip 3 times. We look at the schedule of events and festivals in the Fairbanks area and the Anchorage area, then plan travels accordingly. Planning a return trip in 2018.

Whatever you do, try to take on enough fuel so you can by-pass the fuel station called the HUB in Glennallen - they had the most expensive fuel on the whole trip last year. Or, just take on enough fuel to get you closer to Anchorage or Fbks.As far as which way to turn, if you're going to do all of them anyways, it really doesn't matter. Depending on clouds, you'll get a few better views of McKinley going north on the Parks Hwy rather than south.Bill

We enjoy the Kenai late July through August - not as crowded. Same for Denali Nat'l Park - stay IN the park itself for the best experience.

"As far as which way to turn, if you're going to do all of them anyways, it really doesn't matter. Depending on clouds, you'll get a few better views of McKinley going north on the Parks Hwy rather than south."^^^^^ This. Direction on the loop doesn't matter per se, but Mighty Mac seems to be more often visible going North vs. South. Conversely, other parts of the range are, at least from the road, more striking when heading South from Squarebanks. FWIW, there are a couple of different views of McKinley available on the drive into Talkeetna that aren't available on the Parks itself. 'Course, it all does depend on clouds.

Preferred Route | Good Sam Community

Gjac
Explorer III
Feb 26, 2017
The only time it matters is if you plan on salmon fishing, you need to be there when they are running, and every year is different.
Ed_Rana2
Explorer
Feb 26, 2017
Thank all for your input. Helpful.
dalton4
Explorer
Mar 02, 2017
For scenery I suggest going to Fairbanks first. I do not place Fairbanks' scenery at the level you will see in the southern and western parts of your planned circle. Believe you will enjoy Fairbanks more by seeing it first and let the scenery build from there.
2gypsies1
Explorer III
Mar 02, 2017
dalton4 wrote:
For scenery I suggest going to Fairbanks first. I do not place Fairbanks' scenery at the level you will see in the southern and western parts of your planned circle. Believe you will enjoy Fairbanks more by seeing it first and let the scenery build from there.

Excellent advise. Also, Fairbanks is prone to wildfires and smoke - more so later in summer but can happen anytime.

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