The Alaska Highway: A Road Trip You Won’t Forget

Are you looking for an adventure that will take you through stunning landscapes, past incredible wildlife, and to some of the most unique places in North America? Then the Alaska Highway is for you!

This iconic road, also known as the Alcan Highway, stretches over 1,387 miles (2,230 km) from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, through the Yukon, and into Alaska. It’s a journey that will take you through rugged mountains, boreal forests, and vast stretches of wilderness. Along the way, you’ll encounter glaciers, rivers, and lakes that will leave you breathless.

Why Take the Alaska Highway Road Trip?

The Alaska Highway is more than just a road; it’s a journey of discovery. It’s a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Canadian and Alaskan wilderness, to learn about the history and culture of the region, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Here are just a few reasons why the Alaska Highway should be on your travel bucket list:

• Unforgettable Scenery: The Alaska Highway winds through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in North America. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast expanses of the Yukon, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty at every turn.
• Wildlife Encounters: The highway is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and eagles. You might even be lucky enough to spot a rare species like a Dall sheep or a wolverine.
• Historical Significance: The Alaska Highway was built during World War II to provide a supply route to Alaska. Today, you can still see remnants of the original road and learn about its fascinating history.
• Unique Experiences: Along the way, you’ll encounter unique attractions like the Sign Post Forest in Watson Lake, Yukon, where travelers from around the world have left behind their own signposts. You can also visit the Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, one of the largest hot springs in Canada.

Top 20 Stops on the Alaska Highway

With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start planning your Alaska Highway road trip. Here are 20 of the top must-see stops along the route:

1. Dawson Creek, British Columbia: This is the starting point of the Alaska Highway. Visit the Mile 0 marker and the Alaska Highway Museum to learn about the history of the road.
2. Fort St. John, British Columbia: Explore the Fort St. John Museum and the Peace River Regional District Visitor Centre.
3. Peace River, British Columbia: Visit the Peace River Museum and the Peace River Regional District Visitor Centre.
4. Hudson’s Hope, British Columbia: Explore the BC Hydro Peace Canyon Dam and the Hudson’s Hope Museum.
5. Wapiti, British Columbia: Visit the Wapiti River Provincial Park and the Wapiti River Campground.
6. Taylor, British Columbia: Explore the Taylor River Provincial Park and the Taylor River Campground.
7. Fort Nelson, British Columbia: Visit the Fort Nelson Museum and the Northern Lights Centre.
8. Muncho Lake, British Columbia: This stunning lake is a must-see for any visitor to the Alaska Highway. Stop for a picnic, hike along the shores, or simply enjoy the view.
9. Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, British Columbia: Relax in the natural hot springs, which are known for their therapeutic properties.
10. Watson Lake, Yukon: Visit the Sign Post Forest, a quirky attraction where travelers from around the world have left behind their own signposts.
11. Teslin, Yukon: Explore the Teslin Tlingit Cultural Centre and the Teslin Museum.
12. Carcross, Yukon: Visit the Carcross Desert, the world’s smallest desert, and the Carcross Commons.
13. Whitehorse, Yukon: The capital of Yukon, Whitehorse is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors. Explore the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre, the Yukon Arts Centre, and the SS Klondike National Historic Site.
14. Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon: Home to the world’s largest non-polar ice field, Kluane National Park is a must-see for anyone interested in glaciers and mountain scenery. Visit the Kluane Lake Visitor Centre and go hiking on the many trails.
15. Haines Junction, Yukon: Visit the Takhini Hot Springs and the Kluane National Park and Reserve Visitor Centre.
16. Destruction Bay, Yukon: Explore the Destruction Bay Campground and the Destruction Bay Visitor Centre.
17. Beaver Creek, Yukon: Visit the Beaver Creek Campground and the Beaver Creek Visitor Centre.
18. Chicken, Alaska: This quirky town is a popular stop for travelers on the Alaska Highway. Visit the Chicken Gold Camp and the Chicken Saloon.
19. Tok, Alaska: Explore the Tok Historic Park and the Tok Visitor Centre.
20. Delta Junction, Alaska: Visit the Delta Junction Historical Society Museum and the Delta Junction Visitor Centre.

Planning Your Alaska Highway Road Trip

Before you embark on your Alaska Highway road trip, there are a few things you need to consider:

• Vehicle: The Alaska Highway is a challenging drive, so make sure your vehicle is in good condition. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended, especially if you plan to travel during the winter months.
• Supplies: Pack plenty of food, water, and other supplies, as there are limited services along the route. Be sure to bring a first-aid kit and a spare tire.
• Weather: The weather on the Alaska Highway can be unpredictable. Be prepared for all types of weather, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
• Wildlife: Be aware of wildlife and drive cautiously, especially at night. Keep your distance from animals and never feed them.

The Alaska Highway is an unforgettable road trip that will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in North America. With careful planning and preparation, you can have an amazing adventure that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.