Road Trip from Anchorage, Alaska to Fort Myers, Florida
If you're planning a road trip from Anchorage, Alaska to Fort Myers, Florida, you're in for a treat! The distance between these two cities is over 4,400 miles, making it a long drive no matter which route you choose. But don't worry, this blog post will break down the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the expected driving time at peak traffic and low traffic times.
Fastest Route
The fastest route from Anchorage, Alaska to Fort Myers, Florida is to take the Alaska Highway to Dawson Creek, British Columbia, then head south until you hit I-10 in Jacksonville, Florida and take that all the way to Fort Myers. This route is approximately 5,300 miles and takes around 6 days of non-stop driving to complete.
However, we highly recommend taking it slow and making stops along the way to enjoy the scenic views. If you split up your drive into multiple days, you can expect this drive to take around 10-14 days, depending on how many stops you make.
Slowest Route
The slowest but most scenic route from Anchorage, Alaska to Fort Myers, Florida is the Alaska Marine Highway System. You'll take a ferry from Alaska to Bellingham, Washington, then head south along the Pacific Coast until you reach San Diego, California. From there, you'll head east and drive along I-10 all the way to Fort Myers.
This route is approximately 6,300 miles and takes around 7-10 days of non-stop driving to complete. But if you take your time and enjoy the stunning beaches and landscapes along the way, you should plan on this drive taking around 2-3 weeks.
Driving Time at Peak Traffic and Low Traffic Times
It's important to note that the driving time varies greatly depending on traffic patterns. If you're driving during peak traffic times, such as during rush hour or holidays, you can expect your drive to take longer than usual. On the other hand, if you drive during off-peak times, such as overnight, you'll likely make better time.
For example, if you're taking the fastest route and driving during peak traffic times, your expected drive time is around 7-8 days. But if you drive during off-peak times, you can cut that down to around 5-6 days. The same goes for the slowest route – expect to add a few days to your trip if you're driving during busy times.
Final Thoughts
No matter which route you choose, the road trip from Anchorage, Alaska to Fort Myers, Florida is an adventure of a lifetime. From stunning vistas to quirky roadside attractions and everything in between, you're sure to make memories that will last a lifetime. So pack up your car, buckle up, and get ready for an epic journey!