How to Get Here

Cantwell is located at the junction of the Parks Highway (AK-3) and the Denali Highway (AK-8), about 30 minutes south of the entrance to Denali National Park. Despite its small size, it’s a well-known stop for travelers heading north to Fairbanks or south to Anchorage.

By Car

• From Anchorage:
  Take the George Parks Highway (AK-3) north for approximately 210 miles. The drive takes around 4.5–5 hours and offers scenic views of the Alaska Range, Talkeetna Mountains, and Broad Pass.

• From Fairbanks:
  Drive south on the Parks Highway (AK-3) for about 140 miles. The route passes through Nenana, Healy, and Denali National Park before reaching Cantwell. Travel time is roughly 2.5–3 hours.

• From Glennallen or the Richardson Highway:
  In summer, travelers can access Cantwell via the Denali Highway (AK-8), a 135-mile scenic gravel road that connects Paxson to Cantwell. The road is unpaved and closed in winter but offers remote beauty and adventure in summer months.

By Train

• Alaska Railroad (Summer Only):
  The Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star route runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks with a seasonal flag stop in Cantwell. You must arrange in advance with the train conductor to be picked up or dropped off in Cantwell.
  🔗 Visit Alaska Railroad

By Air

• Nearest Airports:
  Cantwell does not have a commercial airport. The closest major airports are:

  • Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) – 2.5 to 3 hours north

  • Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) – 4.5 to 5 hours south

• Charter Flights:
  Small airstrips in the area allow for charter services, primarily for fly-in fishing, hunting, or remote lodges. Ask local outfitters for availability.