Route 11, more commonly known as the Dalton Highway or Haul Road, begins just north of Fairbanks and runs through the eastern side of the state to Prudhoe Bay. It is a rustic road -- gravel in many places -- and public refueling and supply facilities are very limited. The adventurous traveler is rewarded with a tour of the Brooks mountain range. Get a glimpse into life near the Arctic Circle with a stop at the Frozen Foot Saloon in Coldfoot, the northernmost saloon on the continent.
The Steese highway, noted on maps as Route 6, travels northeastward from Fairbanks to the town of Circle. Along the way, stop at the White Mountains National Recreation Area or the Birch Creek National Wild and Scenic River for hiking and canoeing. Take a dip in Circle's hot springs or learn about historic gold rush mining at Cleary Creek.
The Richardson Highway runs from Valdez north to Fairbanks, encompassing Route 4 and the westernmost portion of Route 2. Considered the most scenic drive in the state, this route allows stops at Keystone Canyon and the Worthington Glacier.
The Parks Highway runs from Anchorage to Fairbanks, passing along the eastern border of Denali National Park. Here you will find Mt. McKinley, the tallest mountain in the United States, along with hiking, rafting, and photography opportunities. Take in the state's largest coal-mining center in Healy.
Those interested in Alaska's early history will enjoy a trek along Routes 1 and 9 - the Glenn, Seward and Sterling highways. These highways boast many preserved sites, including the city of Palmer, a Depression-era experimental community. The Cooper Landing Historical Society Museum, Gold Creek Mine and the Alaska Native Heritage Center all offer opportunities to view artifacts and better understand Alaskan culture.
