A Cozy Stop on a Long Winter Road

The heart of Alaska in the winter months can be wonderfully silent. Roads stretch long and quiet, framed by endless trees, winding rivers, and wide-open skies. It’s the kind of drive that invites deep breaths and slow thoughts. Beauty feels constant out here, and if you’re lucky, you might spot wildlife moving through the trees—moose browsing near the road, a fox crossing in the distance, or ravens riding the cold air above.

If you find yourself in need of a break along the George Parks Highway, consider making a stop at The Alaskan Coffee Bean, located at milepost 249.5. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, warm your hands, and refuel both body and spirit. Inside, you’ll find fantastic coffee, frothy frappuccinos, hearty burritos, and plenty of other comfort-food favorites that taste especially good after miles of winter driving.

One of our favorite surprises? You’ll also find a selection of Tartan Chickadee® pieces available there. There’s something special about seeing our tartans out in the world—especially in a place that welcomes travelers, locals, and road-trippers alike. Wool just belongs here, woven into everyday Alaska life.

Before you pull back onto the highway, take a moment in the parking lot. On a clear day, you can snap a beautiful photo of Mount Healy, standing quietly in the distance. It’s one of those simple moments that sticks with you long after the drive is over.

And if you happen to be traveling in the warmer months, from late May through early September, there’s even more reason to stop. The Healy Saturday Market brings the community together with locally made artisan sourdough bread, pickles, jams, fresh vegetables, baked goods, and handmade treasures—including tartan. It’s a small market with a big heart, full of creativity and connection.

So next time you jump in the car for a road trip through Alaska—whether winter quiet or summer sunshine—mark your map and plan a stop at The Alaskan Coffee Bean. Good coffee, local finds, and a little warmth go a long way on a long Alaska road.