The Ultimate Guide to Traveling the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway
Canada, north-america
138 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Hey adventure seekers! Wanna experience something truly unique? Then you HAVE to check out the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway, or ITH, in Canada's Northwest Territories! This incredible road is the *only* highway in North America that takes you straight to the Arctic Ocean.
Starting from the town of Inuvik (where the legendary Dempster Highway ends!), this 138 km (86 mi) gravel road winds its way north to the tiny hamlet of Tuktoyaktuk, right on the Arctic Coast.
Built between 2014 and 2017, it's a pretty recent addition, giving year-round access to this remote part of the world. Plan on a 2-3 hour drive, but trust me, the journey is part of the adventure! Driving in the winter is a whole different ballgame, offering a completely unique perspective.
While it doesn't quite beat Alaska's Dalton Highway for the northernmost point, the ITH wins for Arctic Ocean access!
Now, a few things to keep in mind: this is a remote road! It's all unpaved and crosses eight bridges. Bring a full-size spare tire, extra water and gas. If you're tackling it in winter, be prepared for *serious* cold – shovel, stove, matches, emergency snacks, sleeping bag, and layers are a must. Cell service is spotty at best, so be prepared to be off-grid.
But the views? Oh man, the views! Imagine driving across the tundra, vast landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. It's an unforgettable experience for any road tripper. So, are you ready for the ultimate Arctic road trip?
Where is it?
The Ultimate Guide to Traveling the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway is located in Canada (north-america). Coordinates: 57.3922, -104.6096
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 138 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 57.3922, -104.6096
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhere is Hacking Lake?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're craving a taste of the high life (literally!), you HAVE to check out the road to Hacking Lake in northeastern Utah. Nestled way up in Uintah County, this hidden gem boasts some of the highest roads in the entire state, topping out at a breathtaking 10,643 feet above sea level! Word to the wise: this isn't your Sunday drive kind of road. You'll need a seriously capable vehicle for the rugged, unpaved 0.2-mile stretch, a challenging climb from the east end of the Uintah Mountain Range. And forget about winter; this route is totally off-limits once the snow flies. Even in the warmer months, altitude and unpredictable weather can throw curveballs, so always be prepared. But trust me, the reward is worth it! Hacking Lake itself is a fisherman's paradise, teeming with Tiger and Rainbow trout. Plus, the views? Epic! You'll be bragging about this road trip for years to come.
easyWhere is Salina Creek Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for a ride on Salina Creek Road! This hidden gem is snuggled in the heart of Utah's Manti-La Sal National Forest, just east of Salina. You'll be cruising on Forest Road 009, a well-maintained gravel track that hugs Salina Creek (you'll even cross it twice on bridges!). At around 12.3 miles long, it's a perfect little escape running between Convulsion Road up to Willow Creek and Skyline Drive Scenic Backway. Most cars can handle it in good weather, so no need for a heavy-duty 4x4 unless the weather turns. Keep in mind this beauty is a seasonal treat, typically open from spring until the snow flies again at the end of the year. And get ready for some serious altitude – you'll climb to a cool 9,009 feet above sea level!
extremeCerro Rubio
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! I just tackled Cerro Rubio, a beast of a peak in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico, and let me tell you, it's not for the faint of heart. We're talking 9,849 feet above sea level, people! The road up? Think gravel, think rocks, think "maybe I should have brought a tank." Seriously, this is strictly a 4x4 kinda trip, and only when it's bone dry. The weather here is a total wildcard, shifting from sunny to OMG-where-did-the-world-go in minutes. Closures are common, so check before you go. And a word to the wise: if you're not friends with high altitudes, maybe skip this one. The air is thin, the wind howls like a banshee year-round, and it can be brutal. But, oh man, the views! If you're up for a challenge and are properly prepared, the scenery is absolutely worth it. Just remember to breathe and take it slow!
moderateWhere is Tucumcari Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you wanna check out Tucumcari Mountain? This peak rises up to south of the town of Tucumcari. It's famous for its radio and cell towers. Plus, you might recognize it as the inspiration for ' in "Cars"! Now, getting to the top is an adventure. The road? Let's just say it's unpaved and rough, so is recommended! It's usually It's not super long. If you're heading up from , the summit is . But trust me, the views are worth it. Just take it slow, watch out for any tricky spots, and soak in that wide-open New Mexico scenery!