# Alaska Highway

> The Alaska Highway runs 1,387 miles from Dawson Creek in British Columbia through Yukon to Delta Junction in Alaska. It is paved, but fuel gaps and seasonal b

Source: https://camping-spirit.com/destinations/alaska-highway/

The Alaska Highway runs 1,387 miles from Dawson Creek in British Columbia through Yukon to Delta Junction in Alaska. It is paved, but fuel gaps and seasonal businesses call for planning.

- **Region:** British Columbia, Yukon, Alaska
- **Length:** 1,387 miles (2,232 km)
- **Start / end:** Dawson Creek – Delta Junction
- **Best season:** Late spring to early autumn
- **Open:** Year-round, many businesses seasonal

No toll roads expected for a car.

## What should you know before visiting Alaska Highway?

- The highway is open all year, and weather has rarely closed it for more than a day. Many businesses operate seasonally, so check what is open before an off-season trip.
- Fuel gaps are a risk. Wikivoyage flags about 140 km between Haines Junction and Whitehorse. Fill up at every chance and confirm stations ahead locally before departing.
- The road is paved along its whole length, but surface quality ranges from poor to excellent. Expect patched pavement, and sometimes short gravel sections during road work.
- The route crosses the Canada–US border at the Yukon–Alaska line. Check the entry rules of both countries with their border agencies before you go.

## The drive

The Alaska Highway starts at Dawson Creek, British Columbia, and ends at Delta Junction, Alaska, at the Richardson Highway. The first 613 miles lie in British Columbia, then the road crosses Yukon to the US border. Fort Nelson, Watson Lake and Whitehorse are larger towns on the way, and Fairbanks lies 96 miles beyond Delta Junction. The road was built in 1942 and is now paved throughout, with a few miles of gravel possible during road work.

## Planning

The Milepost guidebook, published since 1949, is the usual reference, and locals still use the historic mileposts to give locations. Wikivoyage mentions a fuel gap of about 140 km (87 miles) between Haines Junction and Whitehorse and says many fuel stations and shops close outside the tourist season. Permafrost thaw can leave bumps in the road. Adjust your speed and check your tyres before you start.

## Camping

The Yukon government says camping is not allowed in the highway right-of-way. On public land along the Alaska Highway, camp at least 45 metres (about 148 feet) from the road centre line, and ask the landowner or First Nation about private or Settlement Land. The sources we used give no such rule for British Columbia or Alaska, so ask the land manager or the local authority there. Check the Yukon government campground status page before relying on a site.

## FAQs

**How long is the Alaska Highway?**
About 1,387 miles (2,232 km) from Dawson Creek to Delta Junction. It was around 1,700 miles when completed in 1942, and realignments have shortened it. Fairbanks is 96 miles further.

**Is the Alaska Highway paved?**
Yes, along its entire length. Quality varies from poor to excellent, with patched pavement and a few miles of gravel during road work. Conditions change quickly, so ask locally about stretches ahead.

**Can I drive it in winter?**
The highway is open all year and weather has rarely closed it for more than a day. But many fuel stops, shops and campgrounds close for the season, leaving long stretches without services. Plan carefully.

## Places to see

- [Worthington Glacier](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b8-worthington-glacier/)
- [Maclaren Summit](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b8-maclaren-summit/)
- [Denali Visitor Center](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b8-denali-visitor/)
- [Matanuska Glacier](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b17-matanuska-glacier/)
- [Wrangell-St. Elias Visitor Center](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b8-wrangell-visitor/)

## Campsites nearby

- [All campsites in Alaska](https://camping-spirit.com/camping/alaska/)