97: Willow to Fairbanks

Leave Willow's lake country and head north on the Parks Highway toward Fairbanks. It’s a big Alaskan haul, about 463 km with steady rollers (around 3,100 m of climbing). On clear days you’ll get Denali views, plus long, quiet stretches between towns like Talkeetna, the Denali area, and Nenana, so plan your resupplies. Expect wide shoulders and occasional bike paths through communities. Roll into Fairbanks on the Chena River for a well-earned meal and maybe a soak at Chena Hot Springs if you’ve got extra time.