Where does the Alaska Highway begin and end?
Canada, north-america
2.174 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Ready for an epic road trip? The Alaska Highway is a must-do! This 1,523-mile (2,174 km) trek connects Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska, offering a unique way to experience the raw beauty of the north.
Originally built in 1942, the ALCAN is more than just a road; it's a journey through history. While you *can* technically blast through in under four days, trust me, you don't want to. Take your time, soak in the scenery, and maybe even squeeze in a dip in one of the Yukon's hot springs.
Keep in mind, this is still a pretty remote area. Cell service is spotty (at best), so download those maps and playlists beforehand. Gas stations are available, but not always 24/7, so fill up whenever you get the chance!
While most of the highway is paved, expect some construction delays, especially on the Canadian side. Those road crews are constantly working to improve things, but sometimes that means a bit of a bumpy ride. Watch out for loose gravel!
Speaking of bumpy, be prepared for some serious winter conditions if you're traveling late in the season. Think -40°F kind of cold! Always pack emergency supplies – food, water, blankets, a first-aid kit. Tow trucks can be seriously far away!
The best time to tackle the Alaska Highway is from June to early September when the weather is milder and the RV convoys are in full swing. Embrace the slow pace, enjoy the stunning views, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 2.174 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Tibbitt Contwoyto winter road?
🇨🇦 Canada
Ever dreamed of driving on water? The Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road in Northern Canada is your chance! This incredible ice road, born in 1982, stretches up to 600 kilometers (372 miles) across the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Imagine cruising over frozen lakes – they make up 85% of the route! The rest is on land, hopping between lakes. Starting about 65 km (40 mi) east of Yellowknife, this frozen highway twists and turns, ending (depending on the year) near the Ekati or Jericho Diamond Mines. It's not just a scenic drive; it's a vital supply line for mines, accessible only a few months each year (February to early April). The journey takes about 14-18 hours. Speed is seriously controlled to protect the ice, often down to a crawl of 25 km/h (16 mph), or even 10 km/h (6.2 mph) in some spots! Prepare for extreme conditions: high winds, storms, and limited visibility are common. Despite the challenges, this ice road is surprisingly safe, with constant monitoring and strict rules. So, if you're seeking a truly unique adventure, the Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road awaits, offering breathtaking, desolate beauty and a drive you'll never forget.
extremeWhere is Cerro Gordo?
🇺🇸 Usa
Craving a unique road trip? Head to Cerro Gordo, a silver mining ghost town nestled in California's Inyo County. The adventure starts on Cerro Gordo Road, a 12.6-mile dirt track that winds from California State Route 136 (near Keeler) up into the Inyo Mountains. This isn't your average Sunday drive! The road climbs rapidly, hugging the ridge and delivering breathtaking views. While a 2WD vehicle might get you to the ghost town itself, venturing east requires a high-clearance 4x4 to tackle the washed-out and rocky terrain. Be prepared for steep ascents that'll have you shifting into low gear. Cerro Gordo Road is remote, and this narrow, winding route is prone to washouts and rock slides. But the payoff? Stunning vistas, fields of wildflowers, and a glimpse into California's wild west history. You'll find yourself snapping photos at every turn! Just watch out for rattlesnakes along the way. Keep in mind, this road isn't always accessible. Topping out at 8,208 feet, snow can close it down between November and April, so plan your trip for late spring, summer (though it can get scorching!), or autumn. For the truly adventurous, a short but challenging 4x4 road north of the town climbs even higher to an FAA site at 9,222 feet. At 1.8 miles, it's one of California's highest roads! Just remember to check current road conditions before you go and be prepared for an unforgettable journey.
hardRoad trip guide: Conquering Rocky Point in Idaho
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you find yourself in Idaho County, Idaho, and you've got a hankering for some serious elevation, you NEED to check out Rocky Point. We're talking about a peak sitting pretty at 6,233 feet (1,900m) in the Bitterroot Range. Now, fair warning: the road to the top, Forest Road 500A (aka Rocky Point Lookout Road), is all dirt. Think rugged, think real. You'll probably need a 4x4 to make it, and heads up – it's usually snowed in from October to June. But trust me, it's worth the wait. The climb itself is short and sweet (or maybe short and *sweaty*): just 0.9 miles (1.4km) from the Lolo Motorway (Forest Road 500) , but it packs a punch, gaining 305 feet (93m) of elevation with some seriously steep sections hitting a 12% grade! At the summit, you'll find a lookout tower built back in '63, and it's still staffed every year. The views? Absolutely breathtaking. Get ready for some serious photo ops!
extremeThe Winter Nightmare: The 2013 Stranding
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for the Virgin River Gorge, a 29-mile slice of I-15 cutting through Arizona's northwest corner and linking Vegas with Salt Lake City. It's a total showstopper, carved right through towering limestone cliffs. Seriously impressive stuff! But don't let the views fool you. This ain't your average cruise. We're talking winding canyon roads, and some serious elevation changes. Think narrow lanes and tricky bridge structures. Oh, and weather? It can get wild! Zero shoulders mean there's no room for error. Black ice is a real threat in the "Narrows" section during winter – the sun never hits the asphalt, turning it into a sneaky skating rink. Plus, wind gusts can be intense, especially if you're driving a bigger rig. We're talking winds funneled through the canyon walls that can really push you around. Back in 2013, a crazy Arctic storm trapped hundreds of motorists overnight, a good reminder of how quickly things can turn south. They had to re-channel the Virgin River a dozen times. Crazy! Keep an eye on the forecast before you head out, especially in winter. No tailgating, because truck traffic can be heavy. If you can swing it, hit the gorge during daylight hours to avoid that black ice. And double-check that everything on your vehicle is secure, because those winds are no joke. The Virgin River Gorge is an engineering marvel, but it's also a beast. Treat it with respect, and you'll have an unforgettable drive.