Remote, sub-Arctic terrain where wild bears have right of way and road markings vanish without warning: The Alaska Highway is not for the nervous driver.
If you have the daring required to navigate ‘the great adventure road’, there are rewards aplenty.
Background: Spanning two of the vastest spaces on the planet and almost 1,500 miles, the Alaska Highway was built during World War II as a means of transporting troops and munitions to Alaska, at a time when Japanese invasion was thought to be imminent.
The route: The Highway begins at Dawson Creek, British Colombia in Canada (various operators offer fly/drive packages from the UK), then continues via Yukon Territory onto the official end point, Delta Junction in Fairbanks, Alaska. The total distance is 1,422 miles.
Timings: The average driver takes between seven and ten days to complete the route. Double that if you want to make the most of hiking, fishing and other sporting facilities along the way. It’s worth allowing extra time in the Yukon region in particular; the mountain scenery here is stunning, and camping and sporting opportunities are top notch.
Highlights: You’ll see vast waterways, rugged mountains and plenty of wildlife. Every season brings its own highlights: spring boasts mild mountain weather, summer enjoys almost continual daylight, in autumn the leaves turn golden and roads are at their quietest, and in the dead of winter the snow-capped peaks are at their most stunning and the drive is a real challenge. A popular excursion is a ferry ride on Alaska’s scenic waterways, pick up points for which exist at various points along the Highway.
Accommodation and sports: Hiking, fishing, skiing, tobogganing and camping facilities exist along the length of the route. Many have a no reservation policy, which allows for a flexible trip with few time limitations. For most outdoor pursuits you’ll need sturdy hiking boots and plenty of warm layers, even in summer.
Road conditions: The Alaska Highway is a two-way road, serviced all year round roughly every 25-50 miles. The Canadian end is mostly packed gravel with a tar base, making for a smooth ride; the Alaskan portion is entirely paved. The road is continually maintained, but drivers should be aware of repairs in progess and new damage caused by extreme weather. In parts the road is winding, and central markings and danger signs can disappear altogether. Keep abreast of weather and road conditions on route by calling 867-456-7623 or 907-273-6073.
Logistics: Driving licences from any country are valid for 90 days after entry along the whole of the highway (one piece of alternative photo id is also required for each driver and passenger). Seatbelts and child seats are compulsory at all times, as are full headlights. Wildlife has a right of way, so beware of roaming bears! The Highway spans two countries so ensure you have sufficient currencies or traveller’s cheques, and be prepared to work in both kilometres and miles, gallons and litres. Two time zones operate along the route (Alaska is two hours ahead of British Columbia and Yukon).
Channel 4 is not responsible for the content of third party sites. All images courtesy of www.northtoalaska.com.
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