“From the Far North to the Deep South: The Journey from Anchorage to Fort Smith”
Are you ready for an epic road trip through the heartland of America? Buckle up, because the journey from Anchorage, Alaska to Fort Smith, Arkansas is one for the books! While it may seem like an impossible distance to cover, with the right route and some good tunes, you’ll be surprised how quickly the miles will fly by. Here are some options for your journey:
The Northern Route
One option for your trip is to follow the Alaskan Highway through Canada to the Western United States. This is the longest route at roughly 4,060 miles, but it’s also one of the most scenic and adventurous. You’ll drive through majestic mountains, crystal clear lakes, and charming small towns.
If you take this route, plan for around 4-5 days of driving time. Along the way, make sure to stop at the Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park in British Columbia, where you can relax in the natural hot springs and take in the stunning mountain views. Also, consider a stop at Banff National Park in Alberta, which offers breathtaking glaciers, turquoise lakes, and the iconic Icefields Parkway.
The Central Route
Another option is to take the more direct but less scenic central route. Head east out of Anchorage and follow the Trans-Canada highway to the Midwest. This route covers about 3,900 miles, and should take you about 4-5 days to complete.
Along the way, make sure you stop in Alberta to see the famous Calgary Stampede, a rodeo and festival that takes place each July. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a detour down to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming for some incredible natural beauty and wildlife sightings.
The Southern Route
For those who prefer a more southern route, consider starting in Seattle, Washington and then heading south through California, Arizona, and Texas before heading east towards Arkansas. This route covers around 4,020 miles and should take about 4-6 days to complete.
Along the way, make sure to stop at iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam, and the Alamo. If you're a music lover, be sure to visit Nashville, Tennessee, the “Music City”, and Memphis, the home of rock and roll. Both cities offer historic sites and musical landmarks that are not to be missed.
Drive Time
If you're planning to drive the entire route without any stops, it will take you roughly five days to cover the 3,500 miles between Anchorage and Fort Smith. However, this journey is not one to be rushed. Take your time and enjoy the scenery, stop at local eateries and breweries, and meet the people in the towns and cities along the way.
No matter which route you choose, be sure to pack your sense of adventure, and you’ll have a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the open road. Safe travels!