# Denali Highway

> The Denali Highway links Paxson and Cantwell over 135 miles, mostly on gravel. Services are few, and the road is not maintained in winter, so it suits a summe

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

The Denali Highway links Paxson and Cantwell over 135 miles, mostly on gravel. Services are few, and the road is not maintained in winter, so it suits a summer trip with a sturdy vehicle.

- **State:** Alaska
- **Length:** 135 mi (217 km)
- **Start / end:** Paxson to Cantwell
- **Speed limit:** 30–35 mph (50–55 km/h) advised on gravel
- **Best season:** Summer; closed in winter

No toll roads expected for a car.

## What should you know before visiting Denali Highway?

- 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

**Is the Denali Highway open in winter?**
No. It is closed through winter. The state maintains it roughly from mid-May to mid-September, and snowmachiners and dog mushers use it in cold months. Check the Alaska DOT&PF before you go.

**How long is the Denali Highway?**
It is 135 miles (about 217 km) between Paxson and Cantwell Junction. Only the first 21 miles from Paxson and 3 miles near Cantwell are paved, so driving takes much longer than on paved roads.

**Can I take a rental motorhome on the Denali Highway?**
Often not. Many rental companies prohibit gravel roads like this one. Read your contract and ask the company directly before you plan the route.

## 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/)
- [Exit Glacier](https://camping-spirit.com/places/exit-glacier/)
- [Eklutna Lake](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b17-eklutna-lake/)

## Campsites nearby

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