Alaska Route: Unalaska Island to Matanuska Glacier, 30 Stops

This route across Alaska showcases the state's most striking natural features, connecting iconic landmarks from Unalaska Island and Glacier Bay to the Kenai River and Matanuska Glacier. Traversing through remote fjords like Endicott Arm and valleys along the Susitna and Chena Rivers, the route reveals why Alaska remains one of America's least densely populated regions despite its pristine wilderness.

Mode
Places
Start
Welcome to Alaska
End
Dutch Harbor
Stops
30
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Welcome to Alaska — Alaska's gateway region showcasing pristine wilderness, vast landscapes, and the state's unique subarctic ecosystems and wildlife.
  2. Unalaska Island — Northern coast settlement positioned along Alaska Bay; key maritime hub in the Aleutian region.
  3. Kenai River — Major river system in South Central Alaska.
  4. Anderson Bay — Coastal bay in Alaska.
  5. Endicott Arm Fjord — Historic fjord in Southeast Alaska used by indigenous Tlingit people for seasonal hunting and fishing; launching point for wilderness expeditions.
  6. Unalaska Bay — Deep marine harbor surrounded by volcanic peaks, serving as a vital fishing and maritime hub in the remote Aleutian Islands.
  7. Knik Glacier — Spectacular glacier in South Central Alaska surrounded by towering peaks; feeds the silt-rich Knik River.
  8. Chulitna River — River system in South Central Alaska.
  9. Knik River — Glacier-fed river originating from Knik Glacier flowing through South Central Alaska valleys.
  10. Dutch Harbour — One of America's busiest fishing ports, nestled in the Aleutians and renowned for abundant seafood resources and rugged coastal scenery.
  11. Portage Lake — Glacially-fed alpine lake surrounded by steep mountain peaks, accessible via scenic road and offering stunning views of tidewater glaciers.
  12. Turnagain Arm — Coastal arm near Anchorage in South Central Alaska.
  13. Matanuska Glacier — Major glacier in South Central Alaska.
  14. Driftwood Bay — Coastal inlet characterized by weathered driftwood-strewn beaches, dramatic cliffs, and access to remote wilderness and marine ecosystems.
  15. Captain Bay — Remote coastal anchorage offering sheltered waters, abundant marine life, and access to pristine Alaskan wilderness and outdoor exploration.
  16. Glacier Bay — Scenic bay with numerous tidewater glaciers in Southeast Alaska.
  17. Hatcher Pass
  18. Matanuska river — River system in South Central Alaska.
  19. Susitna River — Major river system in Alaska.
  20. Chena River
  21. Tanana River
  22. Eklutna Tailrace — Hydroelectric facility outflow creating scenic waterway with opportunities for fishing and observing industrial-natural landscape integration.
  23. Margerie Glacier — Spectacular tidewater glacier in Glacier Bay flowing directly into the ocean, featuring towering blue ice walls and frequent calving events.
  24. Prince William Sound — Pristine marine inlet with numerous fjords, glaciers, and islands supporting rich wildlife populations and outdoor recreation opportunities.
  25. Denali Park Village — Gateway settlement providing accommodations and services for visitors exploring Denali National Park and North America's tallest peak.
  26. Chugach National Park
  27. Beaver Lake
  28. Shaishnikof River — Wilderness river system flowing through remote terrain, supporting salmon populations and offering pristine fishing and kayaking experiences.
  29. Knik Lodge Wilderness — Backcountry lodge area accessible by floatplane, providing immersive experiences in untamed Alaskan wilderness with fishing and wildlife viewing.
  30. Dutch Harbor — Major maritime settlement on Unalaska Island; key economic hub relying on bay access for resources.

Useful for your trip

Transport
Transportation in Alaska largely depends on planes or boats due to limited road systems and scattered communities far apart.
Avoid
Be aware of frequent wildlife encounters with bears, moose, and other animals that pose safety risks in remote areas.
Avoid
Prepare for natural disasters including earthquakes, volcanoes, and avalanches which are constant threats in Alaska.
Timing
Expect long, bitterly cold winters accompanied by months of limited sunlight, making adaptation difficult for many visitors.
Tip
Charter services and gear rentals are widely available for fishing on Kenai River, especially for king salmon runs.
Transport
Access Endicott Arm fjord through chartered boat excursions launching commonly from nearby Juneau.
Avoid
Year-round fog conditions at Unalaska Bay are often dense and persistent, significantly affecting transportation schedules and maritime safety.
Timing
Glacier calving events (massive ice chunks falling into sea) are main attractions at Endicott Arm, drawing visitors for boat excursions.
Tip
Knik Glacier spans nearly 25 miles and offers rare opportunity to witness glaciation up close with wildlife sightings of moose and bald eagles.
Save money
Cost of living is high because most goods must be shipped from the mainland; plan budget accordingly.

Video on this route

Wonders of Alaska | Why Nobody Lives in Alaska? | Travel Video 4K

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