Just out for a Sunday drive

There aren't enough days in the week to enjoy a Sunday drive in the Valley.

Everywhere you drive, in every direction, you're bound to see things that are truly Alaska -- whether it be a brown bear wandering around the roadside near Denali National Park, a moose on any Valley road, Pioneer Peak showing off its beauty or a river winding its way by the highway.

Scenic drives are a great reason to live in the Valley. Where else can you see a couple of mountain ranges, a stream or two and the sunrise on Wasilla Lake -- all on your way to work, every single morning? Looking around and seeing the natural beauty of the Valley somehow makes traffic a little more bearable on those morning commutes.

One scenic drive has been recognized nationally. The Glenn Highway was recently named one of America's National Scenic Byways by the U.S. Department of Transportation. On the drive north out of Palmer, you'll encounter Matanuska River, Matanuska Glacier and views of the mountains. Up through Sutton and Chickaloon you'll find some of the most breathtaking sights you'll see in Alaska -- and they are all within a half-hour drive of downtown Palmer.

Going north in the other direction is just as scenic. The Parks Highway north to Denali National Park is a fisherman's drive, with angling opportunities all the way north.

Whether it be the Little Susitna River at Miller's Reach or Troublesome Creek near Trapper Creek, numerous streams and rivers cross the Parks Highway. If you have a moment or two, you can fish right at the highway bridges, or if time is at a premium, they are great places to stop, stretch your legs and grab a photograph.

Farther north, you'll see Mount McKinley in all of its glory. There are several spots on the Parks Highway in which Denali frames a perfect photograph for visitors and residents alike.

Some of the "backcountry" roads are just as "Sunday drive" worthy. Taking Fishhook Road up to Hatcher Pass Road is a great way to spend an afternoon. Hatcher Pass Road winds its way up to Independence Mine, and in the summer, you can take the pass over the mountains and into Willow. There are numerous activities you can do -- from picking berries to panning for gold -- on this drive as well.

On the other side of the Valley, you can take the Old Glenn Highway and visit the Butte and Lazy Mountain, two popular hiking areas. Knik and Matanuska rivers provide more photographic opportunities, and you may even get a peek at the Alaska Railroad zooming by.

No matter which way you drive in the Valley, make sure to bring your camera and a few extra minutes in the agenda.

You never know when a perfect picture will present itself -- but rest assured that photographic opportunities will abound on every drive in the Valley.