The drive from Anchorage to Homer is one of Alaska’s classic road trips. Stretching about 220 miles, it takes you from Alaska’s largest city through mountain passes, past rushing rivers, along the edge of Cook Inlet, and finally down to the seaside town of Homer. On paper, it’s about five hours of driving, but few people make it that quickly. The Sterling Highway is the kind of road where you’ll want to pull over again and again, whether for a photo, a bite to eat, or a walk along the water.
This isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B. It’s a trip that feels like a journey through some of Alaska’s most varied and stunning landscapes. In this guide, you’ll find out how long it really takes, the best places to stop, what to expect along the way, and tips that make the drive easier.
How Long Does the Drive Take?
- Distance: 220 miles (354 km)
- Typical driving time: 4.5–5 hours without stops
- Realistic trip length: 7–10 hours if you make scenic and food stops
The road is fully paved, and most of it is in good condition, but travel in Alaska isn’t about speed. Expect to share the highway with RVs, tour buses, and locals who know every curve. Summer construction projects are common, so you might sit in traffic for a few stretches. Wildlife on the road is another factor — moose and even bears sometimes wander close to traffic.
The smartest plan is to give yourself plenty of time. Leave Anchorage in the morning and plan to arrive in Homer by evening. That way, you can enjoy the stops along the way without rushing.
Route Overview
The drive follows two main highways:
- Seward Highway (Anchorage to Tern Lake Junction)
This first section runs south along Turnagain Arm and into the Kenai Peninsula. It’s part of the National Scenic Byway system and is often considered one of the prettiest stretches of highway in the U.S. - Sterling Highway (Tern Lake Junction to Homer)
At the junction near Moose Pass, you turn right onto the Sterling Highway. From here, the road heads west through Cooper Landing, skirts the Kenai River, passes Soldotna and Ninilchik, and eventually curves south into Homer.
Highlights of the Drive
Anchorage to Girdwood (40 miles)
Leaving Anchorage, the road hugs Turnagain Arm. On one side, steep mountains rise almost straight up. On the other, you’ll see mudflats that stretch wide at low tide and fill dramatically when the tide comes in.
Stops worth making:
- Beluga Point: A pullout where you might spot beluga whales in late summer.
- Potter Marsh: A good place for birdwatching and a quick boardwalk stroll.
- Girdwood: A ski town turned year-round adventure hub. There are cafés, bakeries, and the Alyeska Resort tram that takes you up the mountain for sweeping views.
Girdwood to Tern Lake Junction (60 miles)
This stretch goes deeper into the Chugach Mountains. Expect winding roads, glaciers visible from the highway, and lots of pullouts for photos.
Stops worth making:
- Portage Glacier Road: A short detour leads to the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center with views of Portage Lake and the surrounding glaciers.
- Turnagain Pass: The highest point on the Seward Highway, often snow-covered late into spring.
At Tern Lake Junction, you’ll see a small lake surrounded by mountains. It’s a popular photo stop and a natural break before you turn onto the Sterling Highway.
Cooper Landing and the Kenai River (40 miles)
Once you’re on the Sterling Highway, you’ll soon reach Cooper Landing, famous for the Kenai River. This turquoise river is one of Alaska’s best salmon fishing spots, and in summer, anglers line the banks in waders.
Ideas for a stop:
- Watch salmon fishermen at the Kenai River.
- Take a short hike, like the Russian River Falls Trail, where you can see salmon leaping upstream in late summer.
- Grab a bite at local spots like Sackett’s Kenai Grill, known for hearty post-fishing meals.
Soldotna and Kenai (45 miles)
As you continue, the road flattens and enters more populated areas. Soldotna is a convenient halfway break. It has supermarkets, gas stations, and plenty of places to eat.
If you want a short detour, drive 15 miles west to Kenai, where you’ll find Russian Orthodox churches, beaches with views of Cook Inlet, and a chance to spot beluga whales or seals.
Ninilchik and Anchor Point (60 miles)
South of Soldotna, the road gets more rural again. You’ll pass small fishing villages and long stretches of spruce forest.
Highlights:
- Ninilchik: A tiny town with a historic Russian Orthodox church on the bluff and access to clam digging beaches (check tides and regulations).
- Anchor Point: The westernmost point on the U.S. highway system. On clear days, you can see across the inlet to Mount Redoubt and other volcanoes in the Aleutian Range.
Arriving in Homer (35 miles)
The last stretch is the most dramatic. As the road curves downhill toward Homer, the view opens to Kachemak Bay and the Homer Spit, a long strip of land that stretches into the water. It’s one of those moments where you’ll want to pull over and just take it in.
Food and Drink Stops
The Sterling Highway has more options than you’d expect for a rural road. Some favorites along the way:
- The Bake Shop (Girdwood): Famous for sweet rolls and bottomless soup.
- Wildman’s (Cooper Landing): A quirky stop for sandwiches, snacks, and coffee.
- Moose is Loose Bakery (Soldotna): Beloved for doughnuts and pastries.
- Rosco’s Pizza (Ninilchik): A casual stop for hearty pizza before the last push to Homer.
It’s also smart to stock up on snacks and water in Anchorage or Soldotna, especially if you plan to take side hikes.
Wildlife and Scenery
Keep your eyes open — wildlife sightings are common along this drive. You might see:
- Moose grazing along the road.
- Bears (black and brown) near rivers, especially during salmon season.
- Eagles perched in trees or flying overhead.
- Beluga whales in Turnagain Arm (late July to August is best).
Always pull over safely if you want to watch or photograph wildlife. Never stop in the middle of the road.
Tips for the Drive
- Leave early: Morning light is beautiful, and you’ll have fewer cars in front of you.
- Fuel up often: Gas stations are available but spread out. Don’t risk running low.
- Bring layers: Weather can shift quickly from sunny to rainy, even in summer.
- Watch for wildlife: Drive cautiously, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Plan extra time: A “5-hour drive” in Alaska often takes 8 because you’ll keep stopping.
Where to Stay in Homer
If you don’t already have a place booked, Homer has a mix of cozy cabins, small inns, and chain hotels. Popular choices include:
- Lands End Resort on the Homer Spit, with ocean views.
- Driftwood Inn in downtown, a budget-friendly option.
- Tiny houses and cabins rented by locals on platforms like Airbnb.
Camping is also popular — the Homer Spit has campgrounds right by the water.
Should You Drive Straight or Break It Up?
Most travelers do the drive in one day, but if you’d rather break it up, good overnight stops are:
- Girdwood: Makes for a short first day with plenty of activities.
- Cooper Landing: Great if you want to fish or hike before continuing.
- Soldotna: A convenient halfway point with plenty of lodging.
If you’re on vacation and not in a rush, turning the drive into a two-day trip means more time to enjoy the side trails, fishing, and small towns.
Final Thoughts
Driving from Anchorage to Homer is more than just getting from the city to the sea. It’s one of those trips where the road itself is the highlight. From glaciers and salmon rivers to quirky roadside bakeries and dramatic coastal views, every stretch offers something worth slowing down for.
If you take your time, stop often, and keep your eyes open, the Sterling Highway will give you some of the most memorable moments of an Alaska trip — before you even get to Homer.
