Anchorage was my first taste of Alaska, and it didn’t just greet me—it completely captivated me. Nestled between the Chugach Mountains and the sparkling waters of Cook Inlet, this city is where wild nature and modern life coexist in perfect balance. With only two days to explore (June 23–24), I dove headfirst into landscapes so grand, they didn’t feel real.

Alaska’s Most Scenic Stretch

On my first morning, I set out on the Turnagain Arm Drive, one of the most breathtaking coastal drives I’ve ever experienced. As the road hugged the cliffs along the water, I found myself constantly pulling over to take in views that felt straight out of a postcard—towering mountains on one side, the glimmering inlet on the other.

Wildlife sightings are common here, and I was lucky enough to spot Dall sheep perched on rocky outcrops and even a bald eagle soaring above. The salty air, dramatic tides, and ever-changing light made the drive feel less like a commute and more like a meditation. Every curve in the road brought a new gasp-worthy vista.

A Journey Through Glass

The next day, I boarded the iconic Alaska Railroad’s domed train, and it was unlike any train ride I’ve taken before. Sitting beneath the glass dome, I had a panoramic view of Alaska’s untamed wilderness as the train glided past glaciers, forests, rivers, and remote villages.

There’s something magical about sipping coffee while watching moose roam freely in distant meadows, or seeing glacial rivers sparkle under the vast sky. The narration on board shared stories of the land and its people, adding layers of history and meaning to the epic scenery outside the window. It wasn’t just transportation—it was an unforgettable chapter of the journey.

Why Anchorage Left a Mark

Anchorage surprised me in the best way. It’s not just a gateway to Alaska’s wilderness—it is part of that wilderness, with trails, wildlife, and mountains never far away. In just two days, Anchorage reminded me how powerful nature can be—and how freeing it is to slow down and take it all in. Whether you’re chasing the horizon on the Turnagain Arm Drive or watching the world unfold through a domed train window, Anchorage delivers wonder at every turn.