Can You Drive from Anchorage to Juneau?

Have you ever dreamed of driving through the vast wilderness of Alaska, taking in the breathtaking scenery, and eventually landing in the picturesque city of Juneau? Sounds amazing, right?

But here’s the million-dollar question: Can you actually drive from Anchorage to Juneau? After all, Juneau is the only U.S. state capital that isn’t accessible by road, so how does one get there?

In this article, we’ll explore the possibility of driving between these two iconic Alaskan cities, the challenges you’ll face, and the best alternatives if you’re craving that road trip experience. Let’s dive in!

The Road Trip That Isn’t Really a Road Trip

If you’ve been planning a road trip from Anchorage to Juneau, you may have already looked at the map and seen a direct route between the two cities. But here’s the catch: you can’t actually drive directly from Anchorage to Juneau.

Why? Because there’s no road connecting the two cities. It’s not a matter of a closed road or bad weather; it’s just that the cities are separated by mountains and waterways.

So, if you were hoping for a long, scenic drive from one to the other, you’ll need to think outside the box.

But don’t worry! Even though a continuous, uninterrupted road trip isn’t possible, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. You’ll just need to combine your love of the open road with some ferry rides to get the full experience.

Why Can’t You Drive from Anchorage to Juneau?

Before we go over how you can travel between Anchorage and Juneau, let’s first explore why you can’t drive there directly. Juneau, as mentioned, is the only U.S. state capital that’s not accessible by road.

While most major cities in the U.S. can be reached via highways or interstates, Juneau sits in a remote area along the southeastern coast of Alaska, surrounded by mountainous terrain and water.

The lack of road access is due to a combination of geographical and historical factors. Juneau is tucked in a narrow strip of land between towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel, which separates the city from the mainland. No bridges or tunnels have been built to connect Juneau to the road system. The idea of constructing a road that connects Juneau to the rest of Alaska has been discussed, but for now, the city remains accessible only by air or sea.

How to Get from Anchorage to Juneau

While a direct road trip isn’t possible, that doesn’t mean you can’t travel between Anchorage and Juneau! In fact, you’ll have several ways to make the journey all of which offer their own unique Alaskan experiences.

1. Drive to Haines or Skagway and Take the Ferry

The most popular method of reaching Juneau from Anchorage involves driving to either Haines or Skagway, two towns that are accessible by road. From these locations, you can hop on the Alaska Marine Highway System ferry, which will take you to Juneau.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Drive and Ferry Combo:

1. Drive from Anchorage to Haines or Skagway:
   • Distance: Anchorage to Haines (approximately 550 miles), Anchorage to Skagway (approximately 600 miles)
   • Travel Time: About 9–11 hours depending on your starting point
   • The drive takes you through the beautiful Alaska Highway, so prepare for stunning landscapes and plenty of opportunities to pull over and snap photos. Along the way, you’ll pass through the towns of Tok, Glennallen, and others, each offering unique sights and activities.
2. Catch the Ferry:
   • Ferry Duration: Approximately 4–6 hours from Haines or Skagway to Juneau
   • The ferry ride itself is an amazing experience. You’ll cruise along the Inside Passage, surrounded by lush forests and sparkling waters. Keep an eye out for wildlife seals, whales, and eagles are often spotted during the journey.
3. Arrive in Juneau:
   • The ferry will drop you right into the heart of Juneau, where you can start exploring the city’s many attractions, like the Mendenhall Glacier, the Alaska State Museum, and the stunning mountain views.

Quick Summary of the Drive + Ferry Combo

2. Fly from Anchorage to Juneau

If you’re short on time or prefer to skip the lengthy journey, flying from Anchorage to Juneau is the fastest and easiest option. The flight takes just about 45 minutes, and you’ll enjoy stunning aerial views of Alaska’s rugged landscapes along the way.

3. Other Transportation Options:

• By Bus and Ferry: You can also take a combination of long-distance buses and ferries to make the trip. The Alaska Marine Highway System offers routes that connect various Alaskan coastal towns, and you can combine these with bus routes for a unique experience.
• Private Charter or Cruise Ship: If you’re looking for something more luxurious, private charter services or cruise ships may offer trips between Anchorage and Juneau. However, these tend to be pricier options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Planning a trip between Anchorage and Juneau can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with Alaska’s logistics. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Underestimating Travel Time

Although the distance between Anchorage and Juneau may look short on a map, the journey can take a lot longer than you think due to the combination of driving, ferry rides, and weather conditions. Always leave extra time for unexpected delays, whether it’s a ferry schedule change or a road detour.

2. Not Booking Ferry Tickets in Advance

Ferries can get booked up, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s always a good idea to make your reservations ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling during summer months when tourists flock to Alaska.

3. Forgetting to Pack for Both Road and Water Travel

You’ll be experiencing both road and water travel on this trip, so make sure to pack accordingly. Bring comfortable clothing for the drive and something warmer for the ferry ride, as it can get chilly on the water. Don’t forget your camera there will be plenty of photo ops along the way!

Conclusion

Although you can’t drive directly from Anchorage to Juneau, the journey is still worth taking. Whether you decide to embark on a scenic drive to Haines or Skagway and take the ferry, or choose to fly for a quicker route, you’ll experience some of the best that Alaska has to offer.

This trip will allow you to enjoy the rugged beauty of the landscape, the charm of small Alaskan towns, and the tranquility of the waters on a ferry ride.

If you’re planning your own trip, make sure to plan ahead and be aware of the various transportation options. You’ll be rewarded with a truly unforgettable experience.

So, are you ready for your Alaska adventure? Let me know your plans in the comments below! Have you ever taken the ferry from Haines or Skagway to Juneau? Share your experiences — I’d love to hear them!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I drive to Juneau from Anchorage without taking a ferry?
No, there is no direct road access to Juneau from Anchorage. You’ll need to either drive to Haines or Skagway and take a ferry to Juneau, or fly directly to Juneau.

2. How long does it take to drive from Anchorage to Haines or Skagway?
It takes approximately 9–11 hours to drive from Anchorage to Haines or Skagway, depending on the route and stops along the way.

3. Are there any other ways to travel to Juneau from Anchorage?
Flying is the quickest way to travel directly from Anchorage to Juneau, with flights taking around 45 minutes.

4. What should I bring for the ferry ride to Juneau?
Make sure to pack for both the road trip and the ferry ride. Comfortable clothes for driving and something warmer for the ferry are recommended. Also, bring your camera for all the scenic views!

5. How far in advance should I book my ferry tickets?
It’s recommended to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months when ferries can fill up quickly.