Scenic Glenn Highway Guided Drive
One of America's most scenic drives — glacier viewpoints, mountain photo stops, wildlife spotting, and fall colors — all with a private local guide.
About the Glenn Highway
The Glenn Highway stretches 135 miles from Anchorage to Glennallen, cutting through the heart of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley and the Chugach Mountains. It is consistently ranked among the most scenic highways in America and is a National Scenic Byway.
The route follows the Matanuska River valley upstream, passing glaciers, braided river flats, alpine lakes, and mountain passes. The road reaches an elevation of over 3,000 feet at Eureka Summit, with expansive views in every direction. Along the way, Dall sheep graze on mountain slopes, moose browse in river corridors, and eagles patrol the waterways.
MatSu Compass offers private guided drives along the Glenn Highway with your own local guide and vehicle. Unlike a rental car drive, your guide knows every pulloff, every hidden viewpoint, and every seasonal highlight. We stop where the light is best, point out wildlife you might otherwise miss, and share the geology, history, and ecology of this remarkable landscape.
Photo Stops
Key viewpoints and pulloffs along the Glenn Highway. Your guide will tailor stops to conditions and your interests.
Matanuska River Overlook
Mile 70Panoramic view of the braided Matanuska River with the Chugach Mountains rising behind it. Best light: morning.
Long Lake
Mile 85Crystal-clear alpine lake with reflections of the surrounding peaks. One of the most photographed spots on the Glenn Highway.
Lion Head
Mile 100Named for the rock formation resembling a lion's profile. Striking geological feature visible from the road with a short pulloff walk.
Matanuska Glacier Viewpoint
Mile 101See the full face of the Matanuska Glacier from the road. The glacier's 4-mile-wide terminus is visible from multiple pulloffs in this area.
Caribou Creek Trailhead
Mile 107Optional short walk along a mountain creek. In fall, the surrounding tundra and birch trees turn brilliant gold and red.
Sheep Mountain Lodge
Mile 113Historic lodge with Dall sheep often visible on the mountainside above. Excellent wildlife viewing with binoculars.
Wildlife You May See
The Glenn Highway corridor is rich with Alaska wildlife. Your guide carries binoculars and spotting scopes.
Dall Sheep
High likelihoodRegularly spotted on the cliffs near Sheep Mountain, especially in spring and fall. White against the dark rock — visible from the road.
Moose
High likelihoodCommon along river corridors and in birch/spruce forests throughout the drive. Often seen near Long Lake and in Palmer flats.
Bald Eagles
High likelihoodFound along rivers and lakes year-round. Especially concentrated near salmon spawning areas in summer.
Black & Brown Bears
Moderate likelihoodPresent throughout the area but elusive. Best chances during salmon runs (July-September) near river crossings.
Mountain Goats
Moderate likelihoodSeen on steep mountainsides in the Chugach Range. Binoculars help. White color stands out against rock and vegetation.
Seasonal Guide
The Glenn Highway is beautiful year-round, with each season offering a different character.
Snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, wildflowers beginning to bloom, long daylight hours, Dall sheep lambs, migrating birds.
Lush green valleys, salmon in rivers, active wildlife, glacier at peak accessibility, 18+ hours of daylight, warm temperatures.
Spectacular fall colors — gold birch, red tundra, orange fireweed. Clearer air, more Denali visibility, migrating birds, rutting moose. Best month for photography.
Snow-covered mountains, dramatic frozen landscapes, potential northern lights, ice-covered rivers, quiet roads. Shorter days but incredible light.
Pricing
| Experience | Per Person |
|---|---|
| Glenn Highway Scenic Drive (4-6 hrs) | $195 |
| Extended Drive with Short Hikes (6-8 hrs) | $275 |
| Combo: Scenic Drive + Glacier Walk (8-10 hrs) | $375 |
| Anchorage Airport (ANC) pickup add-on | +$75 |
Includes private vehicle, experienced local guide, snacks, beverages, binoculars. Group discounts for 4+ guests.
What's Included
- Private vehicle and experienced local guide
- Multiple photo stops at scenic viewpoints
- Binoculars and spotting scope for wildlife
- Snacks and beverages
- Flexible itinerary — spend more time where you want
- Local knowledge: geology, history, ecology
- Round-trip from Mat-Su Valley lodging
- Camera tips and best-angle advice at each stop
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Glenn Highway one of America's most scenic drives?
Yes. The Glenn Highway is consistently ranked among the top 10 most scenic drives in the United States. The 135-mile stretch from Anchorage to Glennallen passes through dramatic mountain valleys, past glaciers, alongside braided rivers, and through some of Alaska's most accessible wilderness.
How long is the guided scenic drive?
Our standard guided drive is 4-6 hours, covering the most scenic sections of the Glenn Highway with multiple photo stops. Extended options (6-8 hours) add more stops, short hikes, or combine with a Matanuska Glacier visit.
Is this suitable for all ages?
Absolutely. The scenic drive is one of our most accessible experiences — comfortable for all ages and mobility levels. Stops involve short walks on paved or maintained pulloffs. Extended hike options are available for more active groups.
When are the fall colors?
Peak fall colors along the Glenn Highway typically occur in the first two weeks of September. The birch trees turn gold, the tundra turns red and orange, and the fireweed goes to seed. It is arguably the most beautiful time to drive this route.
Will I see wildlife?
Wildlife sightings are common but never guaranteed. Dall sheep near Sheep Mountain are the most reliable sighting — visible roughly 80% of trips. Moose are frequently spotted near rivers and lakes. Bears, eagles, and mountain goats are possible bonuses.
Can this be combined with a glacier hike?
Yes. The Glenn Highway passes the Matanuska Glacier. We offer a popular combo trip: scenic drive with photo stops plus a guided glacier walk. This makes a full-day 8-10 hour experience.
Book Your Glenn Highway Scenic Drive
Tell us your dates and interests, and we will plan a private scenic drive tailored to the season and your photography or wildlife goals.