Denali Highway in Alaska is one of America's top drives

Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! If you're heading to Alaska and craving off-the-beaten-path beauty, you HAVE to check out the Denali Highway (Alaska Route 8). This isn't your average smooth ride, though – it's a 135-mile (217km) adventure from Paxson (on the Richardson Highway) to Cantwell (on the Parks Highway), and a whole lotta it is unpaved!

Think gravel, not mud, with some potentially sharp rocks thrown in for good measure. Expect some 'washboard' road stretches and plenty of dust, especially after rain. They recommend sticking to 30 mph (48 km/h), and trust me, you'll probably want to. Parts of the road are well-maintained, others… well, let's just say they're "character-building."

Opened way back in 1957, the Denali Highway offers gentle climbs and great visibility. But pro tip: bring a spare tire (or two!), as flats are pretty common. A lot of rental companies freak out about this road, but some will let you take their cars on it, so do your research!

Heads up: it's usually closed from late October to late May because, you know, Alaska. You'll climb from the forest into stunning tundra and taiga, with the majestic Alaska Range as your backdrop. Starting at 2,750 ft in Paxson, you'll eventually hit Maclaren Summit at 4,101ft (1.250m), one of the highest passes in Alaska!

Seriously, this drive is unforgettable. Give yourself 4-5 hours *without* stops, but honestly, you'll want more time to soak it all in. Consider an overnight stay! And the best part? You might only see a few other cars the entire time – talk about escaping the crowds!