Driving the Klondike Highway to White Pass on the Alaska-Canada border

White Pass straddles the border between Alaska and British Columbia, lifting you to 1,010m (3,313ft) above sea level. This legendary pass is a true icon of the North, forever linked to the Klondike Gold Rush.

Prepare yourself for dramatic landscapes within the Coast Mountains! This route carves through the same rugged terrain that countless gold seekers once braved. Today, it's a smooth, paved highway granting access to a raw wilderness of glaciers, roaring waterfalls, and deep, granite canyons.

Clocking in at 34.4 km (21.37 miles), this stretch of the South Klondike Highway runs north from the charming coastal town of Skagway, Alaska, to the Canadian customs at Fraser, British Columbia. Be aware, though: "White Pass" isn't just a name! This road is steep – some sections hit an 11% gradient. Get ready for relentless climbs and descents that will test your brakes! Mother Nature throws curveballs, too. Even in summer, fog, heavy snow, and fierce winds can roll in fast, and visibility can disappear in seconds.

The views are breathtaking as you climb from sea level. You'll pass through multiple eco-zones, from lush rainforest to windswept alpine tundra. Keep in mind, you're crossing an international border, so have your travel documents ready for customs!

Along the way, you'll get epic views of the Skagway River and the historic White Pass & Yukon Route railroad. Stop at Moore Bridge for a photo op over a stunning gorge, and check out overlooks showcasing the infamous "Dead Horse Trail." This road trip is unforgettable, but stay alert! Those steep drop-offs and frequent tour buses demand your full attention.