How to Get from Vancouver to Anchorage: Route Guide and Options

The journey from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska, is an unforgettable adventure that can be approached through various routes, each offering its unique charm and challenges. Whether you are planning a scenic drive along the Alaska Highway or opting for a more adventurous route, this guide will help you navigate the most efficient and enjoyable paths.

Recommended Route Via the Alaska Highway

The recommended route begins with a similar path for most of the trip, starting from Watson Lake onward, with some optional variations along the way. This route involves traveling east and north on the Trans Canada Highway 1 (TCH 1) to Cache Creek. From there, you continue north on BC Highway 97 to Dawson Creek, where the Alaska Highway officially begins. BC 97 continues as Yukon Highway 1, maintaining the Alaska Highway name until it becomes Alaska State Route 2 (AK 2) at the border.

Once in the U.S., you can follow AK 2 up to its terminus in Delta Junction or turn west onto the Tok Cut-Off (AK Route 1) in Tok to proceed towards Anchorage.

Scenic or Alternative Routes

There are several alternative routes depending on your preferences:

BC 5 to Kamloops: From TCH 1 in Hope BC, head east on the Crowsnest Highway (BC Highway 3) and then north on BC 5 up to just outside of Kamloops. This route offers a mostly freeway journey, particularly after the junction with the Crowsnest Highway, providing a smoother, albeit longer, drive. BC 99 to Cache Creek: Starting from Vancouver, head north on the Sea-To-Sky Highway (BC Highway 99) through Whistler, Pemberton, and Lilooet. BC 99 ends at BC 97 about 11 kM north of Cache Creek. This route is scenic but more twisty and narrow, offering breathtaking views but challenging for heavy trailers. Cassiar Highway: This route is specifically suitable for destinations like Hyder, Alaska. From Prince George, head west on Yellowhead Highway (TCH 16) to the Cassiar Highway (BC Highway 37) in Kitwanga. From there, head north on BC 37 to the Alaska Highway (Yukon Route 2) just west of Watson Lake. Be prepared for limited services and fuel stops. Klondike Highway to Skagway, AK: This route is ideal for those interested in the history of the Klondike Gold Rush. Enter Canada from the Alaska Highway in Jake’s Corner, turn off on Tagish Road (Yukon Highway 8) to Carcross. From there, head south on the South Klondike Highway (YT Highway 2) to Skagway. The route changes numbers as you cross into the U.S. and then into Alaska.

Transport via Ferry and Detours

If you require ferry transportation, there are two notable routes:

Prince Rupert Ferry to Southeast Alaska

From TCH 1 in Prince George, head west on TCH 16 to the ferry terminal in Prince Rupert. From there, board the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferry to Haines or Skagway, where you can reconnect with the road system. Alternatively, you may opt to change ferries or disembark to drive north, with Haines recommended for proximity to the Alaska Highway.

AMHS Ferry from Bellingham, WA to Southeast Alaska: Start in Vancouver and head south on BC 99, which becomes Interstate 5 (I-5) after crossing the border. From I-5, exit at 250 to WA State Route 11 South/Chuckanut Drive/Old Fairhaven Parkway in Bellingham. Follow the route to the AMHS ferry terminal where you can board a ferry to Haines or Skagway, or change ferries to proceed into mainland Alaska.

The Kemess Mine to Haines via Prince Rupert Ferry

For a different perspective, you can also access the Kemess Mine Loop in Prince Rupert via the Princess Marine Transport ferries which service a variety of other small ports along the Inside Passage. After visiting the Kemess Mine, you can rejoin the Alaska Marine Highway System ferries to continue to Skagway or Haines.

Exploring these routes will provide a rich and diverse experience, making your trip from Vancouver to Anchorage a memorable one. Each route offers unique attractions, beautiful landscapes, and historical sites, making this journey more than just a means of transportation.