Famous route

Richardson Highway

The Richardson Highway runs from Valdez on Prince William Sound over Thompson Pass and along the Copper River to Fairbanks. The state maintains it year-round.

State: Alaska
Length: About 366–368 miles
Start / end: Valdez – Fairbanks
Best season: Summer; winter closures possible
Open: Maintained year-round

What should you know before visiting Richardson Highway?

No toll roads expected for a car.

Thompson Pass is especially snowy. Avalanches block the road several times a year, and heavy snow and wind can close it for days in winter.
Alaska DOT&PF says services are sparser than on most Lower 48 highways, but food and gas are available along the way. Check current conditions on the 511 system.
Several state campgrounds lie along the road. Only Blueberry Lake near Valdez is reservable, through a third party; the others are first come, first served. None is listed at Thompson Pass.

The drive

The road starts in Valdez (mile 0), climbs over Thompson Pass, follows the Copper River and reaches Glennallen at mile 115. It continues to Delta Junction (mile 266) and Fairbanks. The Trans-Alaska Pipeline mostly runs alongside. The road is AK-4 up to Delta Junction and AK-2 beyond. The state says services are sparser than on most Lower 48 highways, so plan fuel and food stops ahead.

Camping

The state parks list names six campgrounds: Blueberry Lake, Squirrel Creek, Dry Creek, Fielding Lake, Delta and Harding Lake. RV parking is marked at only two, Delta SRS and Harding Lake, so check the list beforehand. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has no campground near Copper Center, though private ones exist.

FAQs

How long is the Richardson Highway?

Alaska's transportation department gives 366 miles and other sources 368 miles, around 590 km, from Valdez to Fairbanks. Allow extra time for breaks and viewpoints.

Is the road passable in winter?

Alaska DOT&PF says it is maintained year-round. Heavy snow and high wind can still close it for days, notably around Thompson Pass. Check conditions on 511 before each leg.

Can I reserve campgrounds?

According to the state parks list, only Blueberry Lake near Valdez can be reserved, through a third party. The other sites are first come, first served. In summer, arrive early in the day and keep alternatives in mind.