Road Trip with RVshare Anchorage to Seattle

The journey from Anchorage to Seattle takes you across rugged mountain ranges, through sprawling boreal forests, and over long stretches of coastal highway. You'll have numerous detours and sightseeing stops to choose from, offering memorable experiences for any traveler. RV-friendly campgrounds along the way let you plan overnight stays for rest as you head to and from the Pacific Northwest.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

As you make the long journey from Anchorage to Seattle, you'll start by taking the Glenn Highway toward Tok. This route takes you by mountain overlooks, small Alaskan towns, and other roadside stops that offer dining, shopping, and outdoor adventures. Detours running through Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and the Copper River Valley are great options since you can stop by scenic pullouts for photos and fresh air.

Kluane Lake, Yukon

After traveling about 530 miles, Kluane Lake in Yukon provides the perfect backdrop for pulling over and getting some fresh air. Spend the night here, followed by a quiet sunrise and a lakeside walk in the morning before you continue on your journey toward Seattle. The park offers scenic viewpoints, wildlife-watching opportunities, and many other fun activities. There are multiple RV-friendly campgrounds to choose from that sit right along the lake, like Congdon Creek Yukon Government Campground.

RV Info & Tips:

• Seasonality: This lake tends to freeze over during the long Yukon winter. Coming in late spring or early fall offers the best weather and clear, comfortable conditions for wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring the shoreline.

• How Long to Stay: There's so much to see and do, like taking in the glacier-fed views, photographing the mountain backdrop, and walking through quiet lakeside trails. Consider staying overnight to watch a beautiful sunset and a stunning sunrise.

• Gear & Prep: Bring walking shoes, binoculars for watching Dall sheep and migrating birds, and extra layers for staying warm when it cools off sharply in the evening.

Liard River Hot Springs, British Columbia

Once you get about 1,050 miles into the trip, you'll come to Liard River Hot Springs. This attraction sits almost halfway through your journey, making it another great place to spend the night at the Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park. The natural hot pools offer a relaxing break for tired muscles. There's a boardwalk area where you can take photos of the steamy mineral pools or spend quiet time watching for wildlife.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Seasonality: Enjoy year-round access to the hot springs. The easiest driving conditions occur during early fall thanks to the milder temperatures and clearer roads.

• How Long to Stay: Spending one or two nights here will give you ample time to swim in the steamy mineral pools and explore the wildlife-rich boardwalk area.

• Gear & Prep: You'll want a swimsuit for the hot springs and a towel for drying off after you finish your soak. Sandals will keep your feet comfortable as you walk the long boardwalk. Bug spray is a good idea for keeping mosquitoes and biting insects away.

Mount Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia

Before crossing the border into the United States, stop by Mount Robson Provincial Park in British Columbia. You'll enjoy views of Mount Robson, which is the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies. This attraction is incredibly scenic, making it a must-visit for hikers and photographers. Robson Meadows has spacious RV-accessible sites, and a dump station is available. 

RV Info & Tips: 

• Seasonality: You'll enjoy the clearest views of Mount Robson if you come in late spring or early fall.

• How Long to Stay: Spending a night or two here provides time to discover the Kinney Lake Trail and rest up before you head toward the U.S. border.

• Gear & Prep: You'll want good hiking shoes if you plan to explore the forested trails. Bring your camera to capture photos of Mount Robson's towering peak and the turquoise lakes below.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Your trip from Anchorage to Seattle is sure to be a blast, especially if you plan ahead. You may want to loop back a different way if you want to stop by Haines in Alaska or Prince Rupert in British Columbia. Here are some other tips you can use to make the most of your road-trip adventure.

Take Some Detours

There are several detours you can take on the road trip from Anchorage to Seattle. For example, when you get into Tok, you can take the Tok Cutoff toward Glennallen instead of continuing on the Alaska Highway toward Beaver Creek. This detour will bring you by Gakona and Copper Center, both of which offer scenic valley views, dining, and unique local stops where you can stretch your legs and explore. Or you can take the Haines Highway instead of continuing on the Alaska Highway once you get to Haines Junction. This option brings you right by the famous Haines waterfront, where you can visit local restaurants and breweries with a view of the mountains.

Timing & Logistics

You need to prepare yourself for extreme weather conditions on your drive from Anchorage to Seattle. Almost all of the route consists of areas where the temperature can drop suddenly, producing snow, strong winds, and sharp visibility changes. The areas in and around mountains sometimes see storms form quickly and without much warning.

Trip Logistics

• Road grades or steep passes: The Alaska Highway and the Cassiar Highway both include sections with steep inclines and declines. You should be familiar with mountain-grade driving techniques if you plan to travel these roads in an RV. Use lower gears to control your speed when you go downhill, and maintain steady throttle and momentum when you go up.

• Bridge height considerations: The long road trip from Anchorage to Seattle includes many bridges and a few overhead structures along rural highways. You must double-check your RV's clearance to ensure you can safely pass under posted height limits. You can use state transportation websites and RV-specific trip-planning apps to check height restrictions ahead of time and better plan your route.

• Fuel availability or long stretches without services: On the way to Seattle and back to Anchorage, you'll have lots of fuel stops to choose from, especially on the Alaska Highway and along BC-97 through British Columbia. However, there are some long stretches of roadway where services are limited, such as the area between Tok and Beaver Creek or the remote section between Watson Lake and Dease Lake on the Cassiar Highway. You might also encounter fewer fuel stations if you take detours through the Yukon backroads or the Stewart–Cassiar side routes.

Your road trip from Anchorage to Seattle is going to be an exciting adventure full of scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable stops. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to stay spontaneous and explore the hidden gems along the way. Renting an RV through RVshare is a smart move for traveling in style and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Anchorage to Seattle?

To plan an RV road trip from Anchorage to Seattle, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Anchorage to Seattle without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Anchorage to Seattle. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!