ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP

Anchorage → McCarthy: our 5 must-stop views (and snack grabs)

Our road‑tested hit list: five stops that deliver maximum wow on the way to McCarthy. Think of it as your highlight reel to keep you both awestruck and chilling in your private cabin before nightfall.

ONE: Lions Head Bluff (near Matanuska Glacier)

What: A quick, steep hike to a knockout glacier panorama.
Why we love it: Fastest “whoa” of the route.
Insider tip: Park at mile ~106 pullouts; 60–90 min round trip. Dry days only; sturdy shoes.

TWO: Matanuska Glacier Overlook (Long Rifle Lodge area)

What: Big-sky glacier views without leaving the guardrail.
Why we love it: Zero-effort vista; great for leg stretch and photos.
Insider tip: Pair with a coffee/snack stop next door; watch for Dall sheep on Sheep Mountain.

THREE: Liberty Falls State Recreation Site (Edgerton Hwy)

What: 5-minute scramble to a roaring slot waterfall.
Why we love it: Micro-adventure with maximum sound.
Insider tip: Grab the upper viewpoint; slick when wet. Day-use fee kiosk.

FOUR: Kuskulana River Bridge Walk (McCarthy Road, mile ~17)

What: 238 feet of vertigo over a turquoise gorge.
Why we love it: History + goosebumps (old CR&NW span).
Insider tip: Park well off the road; short, cautious walk across. Hold onto hats.

FIVE:Long Lake Pullout (McCarthy Road, mile ~44)

What: Mirror-calm alpine lake framed by spruce and peaks.
Why we love it: Moose odds high at dusk; sublime reflections.
Insider tip: Keep voices low; scan coves for antlers and ripples.

Snack and fuel favorites (hours vary seasonally)

• Palmer: Vagabond Blues (coffee, breakfast wraps) or 203 Kombucha.

• Glacier View: Long Rifle Lodge (views + burgers) or The Noisy Goose (en route in Palmer).

• Glennallen: The Hub of Alaska (fuel, snacks), NAPA lot food trucks in summer.

• Kenny Lake: Kenny Lake Mercantile (coffee, sandwiches, last‑minute staples).

• Tonsina: Tonsina River Lodge (hearty plates; check hours).

• Chitina: Hotel Chitina/restaurant (seasonal), Spirit Mountain Artworks for a quick wander.

Our pro tips

• Top off fuel in Glennallen (and Kenny Lake if open). Cell service thins after.

• Drive the McCarthy Road unhurried; watch for washboards and rocks.

• Text us before Chitina—we’ll be ready to meet you at the footbridge when you arrive.