You have many hours of driving ahead on the Alaska Highway, so I’ve compiled a list of the best songs to listen to during your journey. Immerse yourself in the frontier wilderness of the north by discovering what others listen to on this road. At the end of this post, I’ll share my personal playlist, which can be found on Spotify. I’ve tried to strike a balance between classic and modern tracks, and I hope you’ll enjoy it!
1. “Frontier Town” – Jason Esler
The first song on my Alaska Highway playlist is “Frontier Town” by Jason Esler. As a traveling musician, Jason has developed a unique style by blending his experiences with improvisational expression. His songs are a reflection of his travels, performances, work, and life in the American West over the past 8 years. Enjoy it! And now we’re ready to hit the road!
2. “Alaska and Me” – John Denver
Staying in this theme, the second song on my playlist is “Alaska and Me” by John Denver. The late, renowned singer-songwriter had a love for the outdoors. Denver got a taste of Alaska’s wilderness during a visit to the state in the 1970s, and this is one of many of his songs inspired by it.
3. “Alaska” – Caiola
he next song on my Alaska Highway playlist is more recent. “Alaska” by Caiola, recorded in 2020. Caiola, whose full name is Jordan Caiola, has a talent for writing with detail that creates a vivid picture in listeners’ minds. He also has the impressive ability to share a specific moment in time and make it relatable to all.
4. “Alaska Song” – Blackwater Railroad Company
Another great song on my Alaska Highway playlist: “Alaska Song” by Blackwater Railroad Company. Blackwater Railroad Company is a band formed in the small town of Seward, Alaska in 2012 and is known for delivering warm, cheerful music.
5. “Mountain Song” – Of Monsters and Men
Another great song on my playlist is “Mountain Sound” by Of Monsters and Men. The song was released in 2012 as the second single from the international version of their debut studio album, “My Head Is an Animal.” A lyric video was released in 2014, and the music video features horses running through mountains and caves that are shaped like horses.
6. “Big Iron” – Colter Wall
A great song to listen to when visiting Skagway, Alaska is “Big Iron” by Colter Wall. You can learn more about the Shootout on Juneau Wharf in my book, “Alaska Highway: 202 Best Stops,” available on Amazon. Colter Wall is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and musician, whose music encompasses country, folk, and western styles.
7. “Wildflowers” – The Wailin’ Jennys
A relatively new song that’s worth a listen is “Wildflowers” by The Wailin’ Jennys. The Wailin’ Jennys are a Canadian music group that has released several albums and received two Juno Awards. They are considered one of the most dynamic contemporary folk groups of the 21st century.
8. “This Cabin” – Hobo Jim
This classic artist can’t be missed! The next song on my Alaska Highway playlist is the great classic “This Cabin” by Hobo Jim. Hobo Jim, whose real name was Jim Varsos, was a popular Alaskan folk singer-songwriter and guitar player. Don’t miss this classic song on your ALCAN journey!
9. “The Woods” – The White Buffalo
“The Woods” by The White Buffalo is a must-listen for your Alaska Highway journey. The White Buffalo, real name Jake Smith, is a great artist influenced by folk musicians like Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Alaska with this song!
10. “Many Miles” – May Erlewine
The next song on my Alaska Highway playlist is “Many Miles” by May Erlewine. She is a musician from Big Rapids, Michigan. She sings and plays the guitar, piano, violin, and other instruments. She is also a songwriter, with over 15 albums of original work published since the beginning of her career, in the early 2000s.
11. “Heading West and Going North” – Jason Esler
The next song on my Alaska Highway playlist is “Heading West and Going North” by Jason Esler. As you embark on your journey along the Alaska Highway, this song will perfectly capture the spirit of heading north and exploring the frontier wilderness of the north.
12. “Misty” – Caamp
This song by Caamp, “Misty,” is a great addition to your Alaska Highway playlist. With its combination of banjo and guitar and lead and backup vocals, it is sure to be a hit on your journey up the highway. Enjoy the music and the scenic views of the north!
13. “Home” – Phillip Phillips
The beautiful song “Home” by Phillip Phillips is another great hit for your Alaska Highway journey! He is an American singer-songwriter who rose to fame after winning the eleventh season of American Idol. Phillip Phillips has released two chart-topping albums and brought his expansive style of guitar-driven rock to stages around the world.
14. “Wrangell Mountain Song” – John Denver
The Wrangell Mountain Song” by John Denver is a tribute to the beautiful Wrangell Mountains in Alaska. As a famous folk singer, Denver’s song captures the essence of this magnificent range and is a must-listen for anyone visiting the area during their Alaska Highway Road Trip. With Denver’s unique style and passion for the outdoors, this song is sure to transport you to the heart of the Wrangell Mountains.
15. “Alaska” – Maggie Rogers
Last song but not least on my Alaska Highway Playlist Road Trip! A little different than other songs – “Alaska” by Maggie Rogers. She is an American singer-songwriter and record producer from Easton, Maryland. This song has a modern vibe. This soundtrack works best with the book “Alaska Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops” available on Amazon.
My Route 66 playlist with the best songs
👍 Find out more:
Discover the best stops along the Alaska Highway in my travel guide, “Alaska Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops”, which is available on Amazon. This is the ultimate travel guide and pocket reference for anyone wishing to experience the adventure and wonder of THE ALASKA HIGHWAY! MUST-HAVE for all Alaska Highway travelers. Visit 202 places on the ALCAN with “Scan QR and go” for easy navigation.
Author:
Mark Watson is a California-based member of a Los Angeles Motorcycle Club and a keen traveler. He’s traveled the entirety of U. S. Route 66 seven times on his Harley-Davidson. He strives to interest others in the historic drive to keep the legendary Route 66 alive. He also traveled through the Alaska Highway. He is an author of bestseller books on Amazon: “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places” and “Alaska Highway – 202 Best Stops”.