Denali Highway

What should you know before visiting Denali Highway?

No toll roads expected for a car.

• Only about 21 miles west of Paxson and 3 miles near Cantwell Junction are paved. The rest is gravel, with soft spots and rough patches. The advised speed is about 30 to 35 mph.
• The road is generally maintained from mid-May to mid-September and closed in winter. The BLM says snowdrifts can block it outside roughly mid-May to October 1.
• There is gas at Cantwell but none at Paxson, and four lodges along the way; services change from year to year. Carry food, water, a first-aid kit and a spare tire. Cell service is limited.
• Many rental companies do not allow their vehicles on this road. Check your rental contract before booking a camper.

The drive

The Denali Highway joins the Richardson Highway near Paxson with the Parks Highway at Cantwell Junction. It mixes pavement, gravel and soft high-float sections. A loop from Fairbanks is about 436 miles, from Anchorage about 600 miles, so plan several days. Slow down when passing other vehicles, because flying rock can crack windshields. The BLM Glennallen Field Office and the Alaska DOT&PF give current conditions.

Planning

The BLM brochure says noncommercial camping on BLM land needs no permit and is limited to 14 days within any 60-day period. BLM campgrounds such as Tangle Lakes and Brushkana Creek are first come, first served. Commercial services change from year to year, so ask the BLM Glennallen Field Office about current rules and open lodges. Fuel up in Cantwell if you start from the Parks Highway side, and bring a full spare tire and extra supplies.

FAQs