Everything you need to know about driving the Alaska Highway

Best time to go

June - September.

How long does it take?

You can decide how long to do this drive in. We would suggest at least a week so you can really enjoy the views and even spend a few nights at some of the best stops. The route from Dawson Creek, BC to the "Welcome to Alaska" sign at the Alcan Border is 1,879KM or 1,167 miles.

Road Conditions

We found the road conditions to be good! Minus a few spots where current construction was happening, the entire road (until Kluane, we did not go further than that so I cannot speak about the last portion) is paved and in good condition!

Cell Service

There is no cell service for most of this drive, so come prepared. You will get some service in towns like Watson Lake & Whitehorse, but in between major towns, its unlikely to get reliable signal.

Gas stations

There are plenty of gas stations along the route. If there's ever a long stretch (200 KMs or more) without gas, there will be a sign letting you know. We did not need to use a gas can at all while towing our trailer along this road.

Rest Stops

There are TONS of rest stops along the route with bathrooms, and almost all of them allow you to stay the night for free!

Wildlife

You will see a lot of wildlife on this drive! Always keep your eyes peeled to avoid any accidents and never approach wildlife.

Wild Fires

Every year is different with wildfires. This year there were several fires that caused the highway to close down for multiple days. Be prepared for delays and check every chance you get service for updates about potential fires.

BC Wild Fire Updates

Yukon Wild Fire Updates

Alaska Wild Fire Updates

Campgrounds

There are TONS of campgrounds along the highway. Some you can book ahead of time and some are first come, first served. There's also a lot of rest stops that you can camp at for free. You will not have any issues finding a place to sleep.

Our favourite place we stayed for free along the highway is Inga Lake!

Essentials

• Spare tire - although the road is not that rough, it's always good to be prepared!

• Food - There is not a lot of restaurants, and most of the food will be over priced for what you get. If you can bring snacks and some meals, it will help save you from spending money on a bad meal.

• Water - there is often a boil advistory in BC during the warmer months so bringing extra drinking water is very helpful.

• Warm clothing - weather changes very fast in the mountains; be prepared with layers. Check out our gear recommendations for the BEST lightweight packable coat!

• Insect repellent - people often say the mosquitoes & black flies are the worst they have ever experienced here! (For us, the Everglades in Florida is still much worse).

• Bear spray - essential for everywhere up here.

• Download offline maps - no cell signal for almost the entire way. Add your must-see stops into the map and download it so you dont miss any! Check out our itinerary for the drive to see all the stops you can't miss!