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Alaska’s Glenn Highway boasts the largest collection of glaciers of any US National Park, in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Winters present you with a splendid sky show when the Northern Lights dance among the snow-capped mountains, while summers bring you endless days to roam in fields of wildflowers and ancient forests.The route on Highway 1 begins near Glennallen and the Tazlina River at the north end and culminates in Anchorage to the southwest. Anchorage is located within Dena’ina Etnena, on the traditional homelands of the Deena’ina Athabascan people and the Native Village of Eklutna. The city combines the beauty of the Alaska wilderness with urban comforts and outdoor spaces. Native American Culture is a big part of the Glenn Highway story, as well as the Alaska story. Some of these groups are unique to Alaska, making their story nationally significant.
Glenn Highway
Local Visitor Information
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Explore Resources
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Byway Overview
Discover the Glenn Highway National Scenic Byway: Alaska’s Epic Glacier-Carved Drive
The Glenn Highway National Scenic Byway is one of Alaska’s most breathtaking road trips. Carved by ancient glaciers and following the powerful Matanuska River for over half its length, this stunning route delivers jaw-dropping scenery along every mile.
Designated as a National Scenic Byway, the Glenn Highway (Highway 1) runs from Glennallen to Anchorage, winding through dramatic mountain landscapes, lush valleys, and wild Alaskan terrain that many consider among the most impressive on Earth.
Highlights Along the Glenn Highway:
- Spectacular glacier-carved mountains and valleys
- Stunning views of the Matanuska River
- Opportunities to see wildlife, including moose, bears, and eagles
- Access to hiking trails, rivers, and scenic pullouts
- Convenient drive between Glennallen and Anchorage
Whether you’re road-tripping through Alaska, heading to or from Anchorage, or looking for an unforgettable scenic drive, the Glenn Highway National Scenic Byway offers a perfect mix of adventure, natural beauty, and easy access.
One of Alaska’s most beautiful drives — and a must-do for anyone exploring the state by car.
Quick Facts
- Designation
- National Scenic Byway (2002)
- Intrinsic Qualities
- Scenic
- Location
- AK
- Total Length
- 135 miles
Visitor Information & Byway Partners
Contact Details
For personalized travel assistance and local recommendations, please reach out to our regional visitor center.
Local Byway Partners
The route follows Highway 1 from Anchorage northeasterly to just west of Glennallen.
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Alaska's Matanuska Glacier
This is the river of ice that made it all
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Downtown Anchorage
Views of the beginning of the Glenn Highway Corridor with the Chugach Mountains in the background.
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Eklutna Village Cemetery
Refects the effect of the Russian Orthodox religion on the native culture.
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Palmer Hay Flats
View as you travel toward Anchorage from Palmer. Pioneer Peak, to the left, with Twin Peaks to the right. The "Ghost Forest" is comprised of trees from the subsidence that occurred in the area as a result of the Great Alaska Earthquake of 1964 that registered greater than 9.0 on the Richter Scale.
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Palmer Depot with a Narrow Gauge Locomotive
In the heart of agriculture in Alaska, Palmer is the home of the Alaska State Fair, giant vegetables, and beautiful gardens
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Long Lake State Park
Fall colors abound at Long Lake State Park at Mile 84 of the Glenn Highway.
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Knik River Valley
The Chugach Mountains and Pioneer Peak are close to the Glenn Highway as you enter the Matanuska Susitna Borough at Mile 30 of the Glenn Highway. The Old Glenn Highway or Palmer Alternate, a 19-mile scenic drive, is at the base of the mountains.
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Glaciers, Glaciers, and Glaciers
Begin on Highway 1 at Lake Louise Rd, just northeast of Mendeltna, a census-designated placed with a population of just 39. Take Highway 1 southwesterly to Anchorage. The first part of the byway you will see the largest collection of glaciers anywhere in the world. Stop to see Alaska’s Matanuska Glacier. If you’re brave enough, take a helicopter ride to see it up close. Or stop in the Matanuska Glacier Recreation Site and try an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) tour.
Long Lake Park and Kepler Park offer boating, camping, picnicking, and trout fishing. Further down the byway, you will find the Knik River. The Palmer Flats are on an island in the Knik River. See the “Ghost Forest”, a result of the 1964 earthquake. Check out the Palmer Depot. The Chugach Mountains and pioneer Peak are visible along the way.
Further down the byway is the Eklutna Village Cemetery and Eklutna Historical Park. Learn more about the native culture and the influence of the Russian Orthodox religion. You will then arrive at Anchorage, finding your choice of lodging options and places to dine.