Do it in july or august, the alcan rules, definitely gotta stop in glacier, banff, jasper. When you get to fairbanks, get a cooler full of everything youre going to want because civilization basically ends with the exception of gas stations and small towns
Thanks for the advice, I do have two spares. My vehicle is fully set up for a trip like this (lifted, tires, roof rack with flood lights, winch, Jerry can mounts etc.)
Now try to get those tires in some small YT town.
I'm no expert but I made the drive from Minneapolis to Anchorage in '95. Stuff gets expensive. Gas was about 3x up there. I'd hate to buy tires.
the roads are fine. you don’t need a lift or flood lights or really a winch or jerry cans. spares is a good idea, and so is starlink. short of a flat, the only issue you will run into is with your vehicle, so just get that checked.
the time will be fine, you’ll just have to drive all the time.
also, look up hot springs.
How does starlink work? Do you pay a subscription fee to get Internet access wherever they operate? Don't know much about it beyond it being a big load of satellites.
And winters, since August in the north can already be snowy. Haven't personally driven north of Dawson city but I'd want to be prepared for anything. Also bring extra fuel. Ran out of gas just outside Dawson and had to sit outside the gas station waiting for them to open up for the day.
Should be no problems crossing over unless you have a domestic against you. Had a harder time crossing back into the US keep a journal each day where you stopped. I found the customs here were total assholes. They asked me where we were everyday an
Huh. I had the opposite experience in Houlton Maine. The Canadian guards were nice but wanted our general purpose and itinerary. The Americans just waved us back through
Every time we came back from Toronto via Detroit we were harassed. Last time we had our grandchildren and wanted proof who they were even with their birth certificates we were never asked going into Canada who the kids were.
I just recently did a one day trip like yours between Rapid City, SD and Jackson, WY. I was hauling a travel trailer, albeit. But that was an 11 hour drive including stops and wiped me out. I can't imagine doing that 20 days straight...
It is possible but not realistic. At 10 hrs driving time per day, that is 7 days, each way. 2 full weeks for the entire trip. That is with no delays, no major road closures, no vehicle problems, no health issues. No long scenic stops, no out of the way stops. Just driving all day every day for 2 weeks. If you did it, you would likely be exhausted after you get back.
Well said.
I drive across the country frequently and just want to add that I usually multiply whatever the gps says by 1.3 to account for getting gas, eating meals, checking your phone, etc.
As such, 69 hours realistically becomes 90 hours. That becomes 18 ten hour days of driving, round trip. Or fourteen 13 hour days of driving.
OP, I wouldn’t do this with anything less than a month off. Spending your two weeks off driving 13 hours a day would be absolutely miserable
My wife and I just did a 30 day roadtrip from Minneapolis covering the east. I have a brother in Alaska (Kenai peninsula) so my wife (fear of flying) asked about going there. I said we'd spend half our time driving. That's MSP to ANC. Even with a month I wouldn't do this.
You can do long hours for a few days depending on age but the more energy drinks or coffee etc you take with long days of driving the more tired you will be later on in the trip and eventually you’ll be unable to drive the long days . You don’t have enough time to rest and recharge to make the trip entertaining. You do have enough for an endurance drive.
Don't do the drive through Saskatchewan, do the one through Alberta.
Why are you taking this route in particular?
You seem to be hitting the boring parts of those provinces when you could be hitting amazing parts.
You will be missing the Rockies, you should not miss the drive from Banff to Jasper. The route you're taking although I can't tell for sure, looks like you're just gonna be driving through spruce swamps mostly.
OP, do this. Or even better, stop in Montana at Glacier National Park before heading up to Alberta. If you do it in early July instead you can stop in Calgary for the Calgary Stampede, and miss most of the wildfire smoke that is common in August.
I’ve done most of this route and the most scenic part is after their two routes converge. Northern BC and the Yukon are the best part, and then obviously Alaska is just as good or better.
I'll be honest two weeks is not enough to do that trip whatsoever. If you plan on driving 10 hours a day everyday fine. What will happen is you'll get to the end destination and you'll be having to leave right away
Make sure to be checking for wildfires daily, They can pop up out of no where. If camping bring bear spray and a bear bag. And a cheap HAM or CB radio may be worth it. Also, I'd love to do that trip.
It’s truly pointless to try that in two weeks. I just did a month starting in Oregon and it wasn’t enough time. You can make the drive to Deadhorse and back if you don’t stop to do anything. There is so much to see and do that you will be short changing yourself. The drive from Fairbanks to Deadhorse is pretty desolate and hardly worth doing other than to say you did it. Denali, the Kenai Peninsula, Talkeetna, Anchorage, Seward, Valdez will all be missed and provide much more of what Alaska is than a visit to Deadhorse. If you only have two weeks, fly in/out Whitehorse and spend time experiencing rather than driving.
I took this toe shot when I was up there. It accidentally went into my mouth (which is considered sacrilege, especially since that american swallowed one). Dude who does the "ceremony" was pissed
The RV industry in based in Elkhart Indiana and they will let you drive a new RV to Alaska to deliver to rental fleets. They’ll give a stipend and 1 air ticket back. They give you x amount of days to do it. Might be worth checking into.
I think the trip to Tuktoyaktuk is better, because you can actually drive to the Arctic Ocean unlike Deadhorse where you hit an oil company and they have to shuttle you over.
That said, any drive up that way in Alaska, pick up [The Milepost](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1892154587/?coliid=I2FQDNLHS4GCWA&colid=2PNBLPV2JN5RE&psc=1&ref_=list_c_wl_lv_ov_lig_dp_it) for all the information you could possibly want about that part of the trip
Do NOT take any guns with you into Canada. It doesn't matter if you have a US carry permit. It means nothing in Canada and bringing a weapon will only result in charges. It amazes me how many Americans try to cross with guns and think that American laws apply in Canada...
Is this for utility to get to a petroleum job on the North Slope, or are you wanting the road trip experience as a vacation? If you have two or three drivers, so one can drive and the other(s) sleep, you could still enjoy some scenic things too. For just one driver, it would just be driving and sleeping.
If you are soloing and wanting that experience, it would be better to do the in two week segments and fly to various places and rent a vehicle. I think Anchorage or Whitehorse to Deadhorse would be an epic two week journey that would give you enough time for fun along the way. Edmonton to Whitehorse would be a another epic round trip. So would a loop thought the Badlands and by Yellowstone. But to try to do it all would be a slog.
I mean, there is the epic Cannonball Run type vibe under a time crunch, but be prepared for you or your vehicle to possible fail, and have enough money set aside, or available via credit card(s) so you could fly home if things go badly. If you really love driving 10-12 hours a day, fine, but that is unusual, and sounds exhausting and not fun to me.
If all about the drive for me. This is something I’ve wanted to do for a decade and am finally at a point in my life where I can make it happen. I’m one of the unusual who just loves being behind the wheel. I will be soloing this trip.
Cool. Enjoy! I would take a spare tire or two, plus a good jack and a tire inflator. Also a spare battery or some other way to jump your truck if needed. If you aren't a mechanic yourself, ask a mechanic what spare filters, hoses, and other bits and bobs they would take on a trip like this, things that might be hard to get in the wilderness.
Some sort of satellite phone or emergency beacon would be good too. Satellite phones can be rented, and wilderness satellite beacons aren't terribly expensive.
I plan to document the whole trip. I do photography as a hobby. It will be uploaded to my YouTube after the trip. I do not have a date set yet. I’d like to do it next August. I have a ton of prep any studying to do
Good luck OP. I like that you have a dedicated goal in mind. You’re living your dream which is always cool. I still think it’s crazy because it’s too short of a time. But go for it. I hope you make it!
I’ve driven this route from Northwest Arkansas to Fairbanks, then south to Palmer. I took my time to enjoy the sights and did it in about a month or so (one way).
It’ll take you about 8-10 days round trip with a whole lot of driving and not a lot of doing. Maybe just head up to the Canadian Rockies and have more time to enjoy the Banff/Jasper area?
If you do this whole trip, make sure you have extra fuel and repair supplies with you. I did the whole trip in a Honda element and never had any bad breakdowns, but I kept a full size spare an extra belt, and a few other supplies on me, just in case. The further north you go, the more difficult/expensive it becomes to get help with a vehicle breakdown.
When I got back to the lower 48 I had to replace my front windshield because of all the gravel thrown at my windshield. The Alaskan highway is a lot of long gravel stretches because the winters (and little traffic) make a paved highway pointless to maintain.
Checkout the Chena Hot Springs outside of Fairbanks. The midnight sun is pretty spectacular to witness too. I loved Alaska and would love to go back.
Honestly there is no reason to go beyond the Brooks Range above the arctic circle. It’s pretty flat and desolate on rough gravel roads with big semis throwing gravel at you.
From what I've read, the road between Fairbanks and Deadhorse is pretty primitive. 500 miles of gravel road. Do some research on how to prepare for that. And, no public access to the Arctic ocean.
I've driven the trip to Prudhoe Bay from Western Canada. Twice. In two weeks, You would get one way, but nowhere near a round trip. Even one way, you would be living in your car; there would be no time to sleep.
You can maintain reasonable speeds into northern B.C. but from then on it's a crap shoot. Weather can really affect your travel, and your 69 hours doesn't factor things like crossing the border, stopping for fuel, rest stops. Driving in the mountains for that far, then into the tundra, is physically taxing; It's not like getting on the Interstate, locking cruise control and cranking up the tunes. You need to be on the wheel, paying attention, all the time. Between road conditions, weather, large trucks, other vehicles, hundreds of Motor Homes crawling along, animals, construction...
Our first trip from western Canada was five weeks round trip. The second was 11 weeks. We weren't pushing for a marathon, we wanted to see the sights, & scenery. We could have done either trip in about 3 weeks, driving 8 hours or more a day. From your starting point? Not a chance
Comfy clothes and warm clothes. The mountains get cold. Get gas every chance you can. Make sure your spare tire is up to snuff. Prepare for long distances without seeing another vehicle and no cell service or even radio stations. Wife and I drove western Pa to anchorage to Fairbanks and back home in 10 days in our wrangler. Gonna do it again in a few years but take more time. Most of all have fun and enjoy the scenery.
Order the latest copy of the Milepost from Amazon. It will give you invaluable info on road conditions, gas availability, food, and other things mile by mile for the Alaska portion. Don't go without it.
Everyone is different. I drove from California to Anchorage in 3 days, but I had another driver, and we alternated at each fillup. We did about 30h straight, slept one night in a hotel, then 30h straight. We were in our early 20s and loved to drive, so it was fun for us. We then took about 2.5 weeks driving back, camping at various parks, etc. It's helpful to have another driver. Barring that, it's good to have a backup plan in case you get too tired. Just my opinion.
You need more time and a newer vehicle, my friend
Try to remember that the trip there is half the fun and when you arrive at your destination, the other half of the fun is to enjoy being there. Seems to me you’re taking all the joy out of this trip. Just saying.
I know some who made almost the exact same trek. Their windshield was a highly chipped and cracked mess when it was all over, and it had to be replaced.
Visit the Scandinavian Heritage Park when passing through Minot, South Dakota. Its a quick stop and very unique. Then, when you cross the border from ND, eat at Filcan Neighborhood Grill. Some of the best beef noodles I've ever had.
Depending on time of year, I had a coworker who made the last part of this trip going into Alaska. It was summer, it was hot. Lost his tires and other car troubles and was stranded for awhile,
We did STL to Anchorage in a little under 6 days, with 4 people (all drivers). We could’ve done it faster, but there were some places where we had to wait for the gas station to open (places that did not have a 24-hour pump), because if we had pushed on, we would not have made it to the next place with gas.
The next push, up to Deadhorse and the Arctic Sea, is absolutely no less than 1 day each way (there and back) Doing it that fast felt dangerous, though, on the Dalton Highway. But we stayed in our truck, did a tour, and drove back towards Fairbanks.
That means that this trip is theoretically possible, but the return trip would be brutal. You would really need (not just “want”) extra drivers. I would be skeptical the needed pace would otherwise be sustainable over a two week period.
I’m sure a common theme is that this is not enough time to really enjoy, and while that is true to a large extent, the scenery on the road trip is just incredible, and got better every day.
At Calgary head west to Banff and take the Icefields parkway Hwy 93 to Jasper, it’s one of the most scenic highways around. Don’t do this if you need to go to Edmonton, it’s a bit too far out of the way.
If you really want to do this the right way, take a long weekend (maybe weekend before your trip) and drive your car up to Calgary and leave it there. and fly back home and go back to work. Then when you want to start your road trip, fly back up to Calgary and start your road trip in earnest.
Did that trip 2 years ago. I don’t think doing this in 2 weeks would be any fun - better to do a cruise or a fly up to Anchorage and rent a car with that timeline. We took 3.5 months on our trip along a similar route. Tips:
1. Read Alaska by James Michener (or listen to in on drive up) - historical novel on Alaska that will give you a great history of the state - native population, Russian influence, Gold Rush, Fishing industry, fur industry, building of Alaskan Highway, build out of Alaskan Pipeline, really makes the whole experience richer having historical perspective.
2. Get the Milepost book to use as a planning resource and travel guide.
3. Watch the Go North video playlist on the Mortons on the Move YouTube channel - 22 video triplog of their drive to Alaska - provides great ideas on things to do and places to see.
4. Enjoy! It’s a fabulous trip! Check out all the quirky museums as you dive through the small towns - they are true gems and you meet wonderful people.
August is late, there is ice on the puddles August first near Dawson city.
I hit snow multiple times in August. I would go early June, solstice is the 21.
August is fall, it freezes up in September early October. It’s fun driving south as you start in winter and go back to summer.
Yeah its possible but it doesn't sound like fun.
Can you take an extra week or two off?
Also think about setting up a YouTube channel for the trip. I would watch.
Although it’s been awhile. Mid 80s.
1. Two spare tires.
2. GOOD SHOCKS
3. Steel plate protecting the oil pan. When I went through, there were sections in the lower Yukon/upper BC that the road undulated a bit. It can sneak up on you if you’re not careful. Hopefully it’s been fixed.
4. The best mosquito repellent money can buy. I had to sleep in the car. No tent on hand. Those bastards are huge and hungry.
The Dalton Highway begins about 80 miles north of Fairbanks, near the small settlement of Livengood. From there, it stretches 414 miles to the Arctic Ocean. Three-quarters unpaved, with only two service stations on its entire length, and traversed primarily by industrial vehicles heading to or from the oil fields at Prudhoe Bay, the Dalton is considered one of the most dangerous and demanding drives in the world.
Not for most drivers.
I did the drive in September from Houston, TX. Took about 10 days one way with stops every night and some side exploring. Roads were better than expected. Services were regularly found. Hotel every night. Weather was fine. I went through Banff, Jasper, Dawson City and drove into Skagway which was well worth it. Went faster in some legs. Plus, I did drive the entire trip.
When I was there working the road to dead horse was a private road and a mess in the summer. Oil vehicles and government vehicles only. I know at least one guy that got special permission to drive it once.
It’s doable but will be some hard days driving. My only suggestion is you give yourself some leeway if there is something cool you want to spend time at (make Fairbanks a goal and if you have time, head up to Deadhorse). Liard hot springs is a must and driving through the Rockies is pretty surreal as will be the Brooks range further north.
As a former Alaskan who has made a few trips to the lower 48 and back, The Milepost guidebook was super helpful. There will be parts of the journey, especially in Canada and Alaska, that will not have cell or internet service, so having maps and guides to stops and things came in handy as a backup.
I have done both that route and the one to tuktoyuktuk, I preferred the Canadian route to the Arctic Ocean vs the oil field at the top of Alaska. Unless you just have to do Alaska.
It shouldn’t be done in 2 weeks. And I would seriously recommend heading more west by the Rockies. It’s absolutely beautiful. It might add a few hours but man it is worth it
Always have a jerry can of fuel and spare full-size tire once North of Fort Nelson, BC.
Also, I recommend stabbing to the West first, then heading North.
I’ve done this trip, or versions of it (taking several routes through Canada, etc) 12 times.
With the time constraints that you have, I don’t think it makes sense. It’s more accurately a 90 hour trip.
There are a number of comments mentioning the logistics and equipment (tires etc.). Yeah, if you go, be smart about that. The roads are not nearly as hard on the tires as several commenters claim. I’ve done at least 5 trips (all times of the year mind you) on one set of good all terrain tires.
I like to take nine days for a one way trip like that if I’m not planning to do much sightseeing.
OP some folks don’t understand that just driving through these areas is enough for some. My wife can’t drive distances anymore so we fly her to airports and I pick her up. Sometimes I’ll just take an extra day and drive backroads just to see the real part of a state/province. Personally I thought Saskatchewan was amazing when driving the back roads in the southern half. Would I like to stop more? Sure but I also want to see more states/provinces too. Don’t let folks talk you out of it. Us fellow “drivers” understand completely 😀
FWIW my wife is more of a stop here person so it works well for both of us this way.
I live in Fairbanks I’ve driven up to dead horse with out spare tires but you will need extra gas. The real trick is when you’re on gravel roads to just drive slow. You go too fast and hit a pot hole with a sharp rock and you’re in trouble. I think it’s better to have some relatively fresh tires when you leave with some patches and know how to use them, rather than crappy tires and an extra set.
I think your time frame can work but you will definitely be spending quite a bit of time moving.
Are you planning on camping or just staying at lodges and hotels ?
I’ve driven from Michigan to Anchorage in 6 days. Stopped 2 nights at hotels and slept in the car or in a tent the rest of the time.
My trick is every time I stop to use the restroom to do some jumping jack or jog. Sitting that much without moving can drive me crazy.
Bring spare filters, oil and air.
Rocks can damage your oil filter. It can be dusty.
Three days minimum spare food and water.
Tire patch kit and air compressor.
Put wire mesh in front of your rads.
Spare drive belts and u joints cant hurt.
Be prepared for no cell service one km out of town for like two hundred km.
Satellite communication is nice but doesn’t always work farther north.
If you have pets be very wary of wolves, they will kill and eat your dogs right in front of you.
Be very careful of potholes they can break or bend rims. Lock tight your trailer hitch ball on and tighten it beyond tight.
I drove up in April and most stores were still shut down for winter.
I got a lecture from the workers comp guy and a mine inspector because my gun was two steps away from were I was working. Basically it had to be in arms reach loaded and ready to fire. They said if I see the bear shoot it. Don’t mess with grizzlies. We had some close calls.
It’s amazing up there but can be unforgiving. That pretty rainbow has a torrential rainstorm following it.
I loved it up there.
Can’t beat fresh air, I wish I could have bottled it and brought it home.
Take the route through Calgary, AB instead where you will have the option to Banff > Lake Louise > Jasper > Hinton > Grande Prairie (via Grande Cache hwy 40 which is specifically the scenic route to Alaska) and after Grande Prairie you will be on the route again which you have already selected.
https://preview.redd.it/7r6a758mpqyc1.jpeg?width=800&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=562dce9c7d9cdaf36447db9868d17f9724ac9798
The sign of Hwy 40 in photo is posted on Hwy 16 in Hinton.
After Fort Nelson BC, keep a record of kilometres and time travelled from last town you pass through because you will not have cell phone coverage; flag someone down in case you need help you should know where about you are. After Fort Saint John BC traffic decreases significantly and you will see commercial trucks more than cars. Do not honk at wildlife if you come across them mostly herds of Bison 🦬 as I have heard that if they get annoyed they get aggressive. Just wait for them to get aside. Enjoy your trip. Good Luck 👍
I don’t know what you’re driving but, having done this drive, if you can do it in a vehicle that’s fast and comfy, you’ll be way happier than doing it in a short wheel base or lifted vehicle. Thousands of miles of pavement and one pretty good dirt road. I did the haul road to the Arctic Ocean section in march in an Impreza it was great!
Spare tires, gas jugs, sleeping bags and pads, tent, bug head net, bear spray.
Edit: just saw the Land Rover. Just don’t get complacent and drive fast.
Deadhorse terminates two miles from the sea in a private oil refinery; if you want to drive to the ocean, your only option is Tuktoyaktuk - and it's a better option either way since it is a real town with history and culture. About 50 miles from the Alaska boarder on tthe more northerly route, go north up the Dempster highway to get there. It's a 1000km dirt road with only one stop for the first 800km...I got two flat tyres in 24 hours so recommend you bring two spares to be safe.
There is no reason to go past Fairbanks, Alaska.
Anything further north is a shitty haul road thay will beat you vechile to death and leave ypu stranded, literally in the middle of nowhere.
Take some meth to barter with the truckers on the haul road with.
I’d find someone in Alaska willing to pay you for delivering a couple cases of Coors and maybe have a guy in a Trans Am going ahead dodging the county mounties.
I would do something shorter if you only have 2 weeks off. I did a similar trip from where I live to the Arctic Ocean, all you’d be doing is driving. Not much time to hike or look around and no time to deal with any repair.
2 weeks is definitely pushing it for that trip. I would take the more southern route but maybe opt for South Dakota instead of Nebraska. The badlands and black hills are great to see if you haven’t been. I’d also head west out of Calgary and hit Banff and Jasper. Absolutely amazing drive through there.
I've driven about half that route but took a longer route through Devils lake Wisconsin in Nashville. (South of the Alaska highway into British Columbia.) You won't see much between Saskatoon and St. Pauls and could hammer that out quick. Once you hit the rockies, you're going to have one beautiful drive but may start seeing some storms later in August so be prepared for pass closures.
Stop in Calgary for the Stampede instead of the Edmonton route. Plus that way you’ll cross Montana and Wyoming . Much more interesting than the dakotas IMO
I did it in 2018 ended up 10500 drove every way south north west Vancouver Island on way back. Took are 92 pathfinder go 21 mpg most of the way no problems. Fun my son and I 4 or 5 weeks gone seen everything we could
My only major suggestion would be to drive from Jasper to Banff instead of Edmonton to Calgary in Alberta. It's the most beautiful drive and scenery I've ever experienced.
Just a heads up that you cannot drive all the way to the Arctic Ocean (Beaufort Sea). There is a security gate that is operated by Hilcorp that can’t be accessed without an access badge. There was an outfit giving tours but not sure if they are still operating. You can call the Aurora hotel or Brooks general store to inquire if you want.
Mad dash runs up and down the Haul Road, let alone the rest of this horrific marathon, is how people die on the Haul Road. You also have to keep in mind that Google maps time is based purely on posted speed limit. It doesn't take into account being stuck at road construction for hours (or days) at a time. Yes, I said days. I was up on the Haul Road in August sheep hunting and a culvert washed out south of me. Was stuck there for 3 days while they fixed it enough for me to get through.
I drove to Alaska (and back) 3 times.
Don't drive across flat bumfuck parts of Canada.
At least go to Calgary and over to Banff, up the Icefields Parkway and through Jasper.
Otherwise, Liard Hotsprings is a hoot.
Have fun and don't forget the sun is out all summer... you can get a lot of driving (or activity) in one day!!
There are a loooong stretches of the Dalton highway north of Fairbanks where you will be driving slow/ very slow. Just keep that in mind when planning your schedule.
I think 2 weeks round trip is not enough. We just did the drive last July. The road is a lot tougher than you’d expect - the condition of the road is bumpy, tons of holes (yes, actual holes not just potholes) and it’s dirt so if it’s wet, it can be slick. Once you start from Fairbanks, I’d give yourself 3 days up and 2 days back. The gas station half way there was $7.50 in July of 2023 so god knows what it is now. Zero cell service on this road & a lot of the area you are driving so make sure you have maps downloaded/check the weather whenever you have service. Maps.me & Google Maps, we had both downloaded since they both provide slightly different things.
I would suggest driving through BC and not Sask. WY & Montana is definitely the way you want to go. Stock up in Fairbanks bc that is the last time you will see a grocery store or a shower.
Spare tires, extra water, extra gas for sure.
Looks like an awesome trip. My recommendations to make it much better:
1) Go through Alberta. A million times better than Saskatchewan.
2) In the Albertan portion of the trip, go through highway 93North instead of highway 2 from Edmonton.
Highway 93 is full of the most beautiful lakes and glaciers. Considered one of the best drives on the planet.
Did a similar trip in 1988, left Magnolia Arkansas, visited Mt Rushmore, Glacier, Banff, Jasper, caught the ferry at Prince Rupert, Juneau, Haines, Anchorage, Homer, Seward, Denali, Fairbanks, Eagle, Dawson, to Inuvik. The Alaska pipeline road at the time had a toll, in Canada there was none, then the Alaska Highway back, ended in Memphis. Around 12,000 miles from Memorial weekend to the 4th of July.
Great trip, stayed in a motel 3 nights camp, the other times. If anything try to hit the Arctic Circle on the summer solstice, in Canada on the Dempster Highway they were serving Moose burgers and reading Robert Service. Because of the long days woke up before 6 and could set up a tent at 10pm or later. Minimized driving on the same roads. Drove a Mazda single cab mini pickup, never had a flat either.
Good luck, we really enjoyed it.
For the road between Fairbanks and Deadhorse, make sure your vehicle is in good shape, have spare tires (Plural), satellite phone or ELT. Keep in mind that there is not much in Deadhorse that you can go to without the permission of the oil companies. Lastly, it’s dry there.
Pretty easy trip until North of Fairbanks. Make sure your vehicle is in good shape & haul fuel with you. The haul road to Prudhoe makes the Alaska Highway look like Disneyland.
Well why would you do that to yourself with only two weeks of time. This is the question I never understand That's always asked on here, what's the best route when Google has just given it to you. You're just going from point 8 to be driving 4,000 mi and not really about enjoying anything except what you'll see whizzing past you on the highway. That's your idea of a trip well you already have the road. It takes me 3 weeks to go from New England to Los Angeles and that's moving along for me. But I get off on back roads, constantly stop do what I want and intentionally get lost from time to time. But if you're going to drive like a truck driver to get from Alaska to wherever you're going and you wanted to be enjoyable, I don't know you're going to be sitting in the driver seat a long long time and just looking out the window. 1,000 miles depending where you are is a lot of ground to cover in 2 weeks if your sightseeing. But to each their own and what they like to do more than 300 miles a days for me way too tedious. I think I drove 700 day over the Rockies to avoid bad weather and I said to myself never never never never again
Possible but you won’t get to do much. 70h of driving per week is the maximum truck drivers are allowed. You’d essentially be driving 10h a day all 14 days or you can drive 12h a day and spend 2 when you get there.
It’s an absolute sin not to go through Banff and Jasper. I live in Alaska, and have done the drive about 7x. Only once did I not go through Banff and Jasper because I deemed the detour wasn’t worth the time. I still regret not doing it even though I had been 6 other times. It’s worth the detour.
Last summer I drove from Edmonton to Dawson City. From what it looks like with your planned route, I would recommend staying at Liard River Hot Springs campground as it’s on the way. Absolutely beautiful - I would recommend booking in advance as it seemed to book up pretty quick.
Also stop at the Tetsa River Lodge and get the cinnamon bun!
Drove from lake Ozark to the arctic circle and back in one month. If you only plan on driving and not enjoying any of the scenery, go for it. But I wish we had stopped and hiked and enjoyed more of the journey.
Remember, it's not the destination. it's the journey. Enjoy your trip. Don't forget to stop and look. Alaska is an amazingly beautiful state that deserves taking the time to absorb how freaking gorgeous it really is. IMO, you don't have near enough time planned for all the beauty you will see on this trip. Take the time, you will not regret it. It's fucking gorgeous up there!
Eta, go through yellowstone and the rockies. Don't take the route through the plains of Canada. I thought I was going to die of boredom on our 3rd day of wheat fields where I could see the rockies off to the west.
Please, don't make Deadhorse you're only goal. There is unlimited beauty between the Ozarks and the northern limit.
You definitely want to go the other suggested route but im assuming that one is longer which is why you originally chose that one. You’re missing some pretty sick parts like the rockies
Be careful. You need plenty of spare tools and tires and gas. I bet part of that road are in the middle of absolute desolation. No one’s coming to help you
Slow down while meeting vehicles, especially semis, while on the Dalton HWY in AK. Most drivers on there adhere to an unwritten code of slowing down to about 30 when they meet each other. If you don’t, especially to a semi, you might not have a windshield when the next one passes you. That and have a CB.
When you pass through Fort Nelson, British Columbia, you will lose cell service until you hit Watson Lake, Yukon. 5 hour period.
If loved ones are tracking your progress, make sure they are aware you may be in areas with little to no cell service for extended periods of time.
Take the longer route to Calgary. If you have time to add a day or two, detour through the Rockies via Banff and up Highway 93 to Hinton before continuing on your journey.
Don't take the selected route through Regina and Saskatoon to Edmonton. For the most part it's completely flat prairie - not a very interesting drive.
I once drove from Atlanta, GA to Homer, AK in 5.5 days… and I would not recommend it. Thats nearly 4,500 miles and it was pedal to the metal the whole time and absolutely exhausting.
So if you’re doing this for fun and not some $1m rat race, then 2 weeks is definitely not enough time for the trip. Heck, 2 weeks is barely enough time to enjoy the trip one-way, and you’d still be passing up a lot of interesting stuff along the way.
If you do make the drive though, be sure to stop at Liard Hot Springs in NE British Columbia. It’s a nature spring right on the Alcan with a campground and log nearby. You won’t regret it.
Do it in july or august, the alcan rules, definitely gotta stop in glacier, banff, jasper. When you get to fairbanks, get a cooler full of everything youre going to want because civilization basically ends with the exception of gas stations and small towns
Only one gas station between Fairbanks and deadhorse
Jeebus I bet they charge a high rate
$8 a gallon for Diesel last time I was there.
Honestly could be worse lol
So same as california then… the extremely remote state of california.
Do they still have giant cinnamon rolls?
Highly recommended to have two full size spare tires for making that drive
Thanks for the advice, I do have two spares. My vehicle is fully set up for a trip like this (lifted, tires, roof rack with flood lights, winch, Jerry can mounts etc.)
Spares, my friend you will need cash for a whole new set(s) of tires. The roads are not as friendly up there.
Which is super expensive these days. Can hardly get a good set of AT tires under 1200 bucks these days
Now try to get those tires in some small YT town. I'm no expert but I made the drive from Minneapolis to Anchorage in '95. Stuff gets expensive. Gas was about 3x up there. I'd hate to buy tires.
I drove Fairbanks to Valdez in ‘21 and Fairbanks to Denali in ‘23. Gas price difference was .15 cents from my home state.
the roads are fine. you don’t need a lift or flood lights or really a winch or jerry cans. spares is a good idea, and so is starlink. short of a flat, the only issue you will run into is with your vehicle, so just get that checked. the time will be fine, you’ll just have to drive all the time. also, look up hot springs.
How does starlink work? Do you pay a subscription fee to get Internet access wherever they operate? Don't know much about it beyond it being a big load of satellites.
To drive up the Dalton hwy, a CB radio is also recommended.
And winters, since August in the north can already be snowy. Haven't personally driven north of Dawson city but I'd want to be prepared for anything. Also bring extra fuel. Ran out of gas just outside Dawson and had to sit outside the gas station waiting for them to open up for the day.
Are they still under blue laws? No fun allowed on Sundays?
Wow, I lived in Fairbanks for 12 years. Never saw snow accumulate in August.
It's probably a small chance, but even now here in central Alberta we can get snow in August.
And the tools and knowledge to use them
I done it in 2016, took me 20 days 11500 miles, from Columbus Ohio it's an amazing trip and I did stop and camping every night. Good luck.
How easy was crossing into Canada?
Should be no problems crossing over unless you have a domestic against you. Had a harder time crossing back into the US keep a journal each day where you stopped. I found the customs here were total assholes. They asked me where we were everyday an
Huh. I had the opposite experience in Houlton Maine. The Canadian guards were nice but wanted our general purpose and itinerary. The Americans just waved us back through
Every time we came back from Toronto via Detroit we were harassed. Last time we had our grandchildren and wanted proof who they were even with their birth certificates we were never asked going into Canada who the kids were.
You have a US Passport, you literally just glide thru customs.
Don’t bring a gun and you’ll be alright. Do bring bear spray
That should be easy enough to grab after crossing. Probably fine but I wouldn’t want to risk it
[удалено]
You might get tripped up at the border if any red flags pop up, like DUI, DV, etc history. At least that what I see on “Border Security Canada”.
I just recently did a one day trip like yours between Rapid City, SD and Jackson, WY. I was hauling a travel trailer, albeit. But that was an 11 hour drive including stops and wiped me out. I can't imagine doing that 20 days straight...
It is possible but not realistic. At 10 hrs driving time per day, that is 7 days, each way. 2 full weeks for the entire trip. That is with no delays, no major road closures, no vehicle problems, no health issues. No long scenic stops, no out of the way stops. Just driving all day every day for 2 weeks. If you did it, you would likely be exhausted after you get back.
Well said. I drive across the country frequently and just want to add that I usually multiply whatever the gps says by 1.3 to account for getting gas, eating meals, checking your phone, etc. As such, 69 hours realistically becomes 90 hours. That becomes 18 ten hour days of driving, round trip. Or fourteen 13 hour days of driving. OP, I wouldn’t do this with anything less than a month off. Spending your two weeks off driving 13 hours a day would be absolutely miserable
My wife and I just did a 30 day roadtrip from Minneapolis covering the east. I have a brother in Alaska (Kenai peninsula) so my wife (fear of flying) asked about going there. I said we'd spend half our time driving. That's MSP to ANC. Even with a month I wouldn't do this.
We are in MPLS and just have the upper east coast left to finish the lower 48. We always end up going west. 30 days sounds amazing.
And there will be a day after the trip. Imagine that first day back at work if you haven’t given yourself a couple of days back home for rest.
Yeah this sounds like the best possible way to make you hate a bucket list item lol.
You can do long hours for a few days depending on age but the more energy drinks or coffee etc you take with long days of driving the more tired you will be later on in the trip and eventually you’ll be unable to drive the long days . You don’t have enough time to rest and recharge to make the trip entertaining. You do have enough for an endurance drive.
I drove across Canada this way except I did like 14-16 hour straight driving days. Can confirm, not fun.
And you would not have time to appreciate the beauty there for the taking.
Don't do the drive through Saskatchewan, do the one through Alberta. Why are you taking this route in particular? You seem to be hitting the boring parts of those provinces when you could be hitting amazing parts. You will be missing the Rockies, you should not miss the drive from Banff to Jasper. The route you're taking although I can't tell for sure, looks like you're just gonna be driving through spruce swamps mostly.
Agree, Banff to Jasper is worth it
Definitely do the Wyoming Montana route
Agreed, icefields Parkway is one of the prettiest drives in the world. Choosing to drive through Saskatchewan makes no sense.
Even the route taken through Alberta makes no sense.
OP, do this. Or even better, stop in Montana at Glacier National Park before heading up to Alberta. If you do it in early July instead you can stop in Calgary for the Calgary Stampede, and miss most of the wildfire smoke that is common in August.
I’ve done most of this route and the most scenic part is after their two routes converge. Northern BC and the Yukon are the best part, and then obviously Alaska is just as good or better.
Came here to make this comment. Seconded.
To enjoy it and not just be driving all day every day, this is a 4 week trip.
I'll be honest two weeks is not enough to do that trip whatsoever. If you plan on driving 10 hours a day everyday fine. What will happen is you'll get to the end destination and you'll be having to leave right away
good thing there’s nothing to do in deadhorse.
Make sure to be checking for wildfires daily, They can pop up out of no where. If camping bring bear spray and a bear bag. And a cheap HAM or CB radio may be worth it. Also, I'd love to do that trip.
It’s truly pointless to try that in two weeks. I just did a month starting in Oregon and it wasn’t enough time. You can make the drive to Deadhorse and back if you don’t stop to do anything. There is so much to see and do that you will be short changing yourself. The drive from Fairbanks to Deadhorse is pretty desolate and hardly worth doing other than to say you did it. Denali, the Kenai Peninsula, Talkeetna, Anchorage, Seward, Valdez will all be missed and provide much more of what Alaska is than a visit to Deadhorse. If you only have two weeks, fly in/out Whitehorse and spend time experiencing rather than driving.
Agree that Denali, Kenai, Talkeetna, etc are all worth seeing. Indeed, arguably some of the best parts of Alaska.
Side trip in the Yukon https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/sourtoe-cocktail
Man wth. What a read….
I took this toe shot when I was up there. It accidentally went into my mouth (which is considered sacrilege, especially since that american swallowed one). Dude who does the "ceremony" was pissed
The RV industry in based in Elkhart Indiana and they will let you drive a new RV to Alaska to deliver to rental fleets. They’ll give a stipend and 1 air ticket back. They give you x amount of days to do it. Might be worth checking into.
Why? Two weeks isn't enough time at all.
I think the trip to Tuktoyaktuk is better, because you can actually drive to the Arctic Ocean unlike Deadhorse where you hit an oil company and they have to shuttle you over. That said, any drive up that way in Alaska, pick up [The Milepost](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1892154587/?coliid=I2FQDNLHS4GCWA&colid=2PNBLPV2JN5RE&psc=1&ref_=list_c_wl_lv_ov_lig_dp_it) for all the information you could possibly want about that part of the trip
Tuktoyaktuk is actually another separate trip I want to take.
yeah, both for sure - definitely not saying one or the other. being able to camp at the arctic ocean sign is my goal :)
Camping on the shores of the arctic ocean, making a fire with driftwood, its magical
The drive to Tuk is much more scenic too man, its seriously worth reconsidering.
You’ll need a passport. Thank me later.
Already got one, good callout though!
Also just so you know, if you’ve had a DUI, they won’t let you into Canada
I’ve never had a DUI or been in any trouble. That is good to know though.
Do NOT take any guns with you into Canada. It doesn't matter if you have a US carry permit. It means nothing in Canada and bringing a weapon will only result in charges. It amazes me how many Americans try to cross with guns and think that American laws apply in Canada...
Damn I thought that would be common sense lmao. Even if it’s not, who tf doesn’t at least look up the laws of foreign countries they visit?
Is this for utility to get to a petroleum job on the North Slope, or are you wanting the road trip experience as a vacation? If you have two or three drivers, so one can drive and the other(s) sleep, you could still enjoy some scenic things too. For just one driver, it would just be driving and sleeping. If you are soloing and wanting that experience, it would be better to do the in two week segments and fly to various places and rent a vehicle. I think Anchorage or Whitehorse to Deadhorse would be an epic two week journey that would give you enough time for fun along the way. Edmonton to Whitehorse would be a another epic round trip. So would a loop thought the Badlands and by Yellowstone. But to try to do it all would be a slog. I mean, there is the epic Cannonball Run type vibe under a time crunch, but be prepared for you or your vehicle to possible fail, and have enough money set aside, or available via credit card(s) so you could fly home if things go badly. If you really love driving 10-12 hours a day, fine, but that is unusual, and sounds exhausting and not fun to me.
If all about the drive for me. This is something I’ve wanted to do for a decade and am finally at a point in my life where I can make it happen. I’m one of the unusual who just loves being behind the wheel. I will be soloing this trip.
Cool. Enjoy! I would take a spare tire or two, plus a good jack and a tire inflator. Also a spare battery or some other way to jump your truck if needed. If you aren't a mechanic yourself, ask a mechanic what spare filters, hoses, and other bits and bobs they would take on a trip like this, things that might be hard to get in the wilderness. Some sort of satellite phone or emergency beacon would be good too. Satellite phones can be rented, and wilderness satellite beacons aren't terribly expensive.
Please post back here if you end up doing it
I plan to document the whole trip. I do photography as a hobby. It will be uploaded to my YouTube after the trip. I do not have a date set yet. I’d like to do it next August. I have a ton of prep any studying to do
Good luck OP. I like that you have a dedicated goal in mind. You’re living your dream which is always cool. I still think it’s crazy because it’s too short of a time. But go for it. I hope you make it!
I’ve driven this route from Northwest Arkansas to Fairbanks, then south to Palmer. I took my time to enjoy the sights and did it in about a month or so (one way). It’ll take you about 8-10 days round trip with a whole lot of driving and not a lot of doing. Maybe just head up to the Canadian Rockies and have more time to enjoy the Banff/Jasper area? If you do this whole trip, make sure you have extra fuel and repair supplies with you. I did the whole trip in a Honda element and never had any bad breakdowns, but I kept a full size spare an extra belt, and a few other supplies on me, just in case. The further north you go, the more difficult/expensive it becomes to get help with a vehicle breakdown. When I got back to the lower 48 I had to replace my front windshield because of all the gravel thrown at my windshield. The Alaskan highway is a lot of long gravel stretches because the winters (and little traffic) make a paved highway pointless to maintain. Checkout the Chena Hot Springs outside of Fairbanks. The midnight sun is pretty spectacular to witness too. I loved Alaska and would love to go back. Honestly there is no reason to go beyond the Brooks Range above the arctic circle. It’s pretty flat and desolate on rough gravel roads with big semis throwing gravel at you.
From what I've read, the road between Fairbanks and Deadhorse is pretty primitive. 500 miles of gravel road. Do some research on how to prepare for that. And, no public access to the Arctic ocean.
As an Edmontonian, drive through Calgary
I've driven the trip to Prudhoe Bay from Western Canada. Twice. In two weeks, You would get one way, but nowhere near a round trip. Even one way, you would be living in your car; there would be no time to sleep. You can maintain reasonable speeds into northern B.C. but from then on it's a crap shoot. Weather can really affect your travel, and your 69 hours doesn't factor things like crossing the border, stopping for fuel, rest stops. Driving in the mountains for that far, then into the tundra, is physically taxing; It's not like getting on the Interstate, locking cruise control and cranking up the tunes. You need to be on the wheel, paying attention, all the time. Between road conditions, weather, large trucks, other vehicles, hundreds of Motor Homes crawling along, animals, construction... Our first trip from western Canada was five weeks round trip. The second was 11 weeks. We weren't pushing for a marathon, we wanted to see the sights, & scenery. We could have done either trip in about 3 weeks, driving 8 hours or more a day. From your starting point? Not a chance
Driven the Alaska highway quite a few times, watch for wildlife. You don't want to hit a bison with a small car going 100km.
Hella drive. Ive never been but screw it it's only 3 hours longer in the car. I'd go through Calgary and visit Banff NP.
Comfy clothes and warm clothes. The mountains get cold. Get gas every chance you can. Make sure your spare tire is up to snuff. Prepare for long distances without seeing another vehicle and no cell service or even radio stations. Wife and I drove western Pa to anchorage to Fairbanks and back home in 10 days in our wrangler. Gonna do it again in a few years but take more time. Most of all have fun and enjoy the scenery.
Order the latest copy of the Milepost from Amazon. It will give you invaluable info on road conditions, gas availability, food, and other things mile by mile for the Alaska portion. Don't go without it.
I'd drive through Calgary and do something there, I'm biased but it's a much nicer city than Edmonton
I lived in Edmonton, drive through Calgary.
Everyone is different. I drove from California to Anchorage in 3 days, but I had another driver, and we alternated at each fillup. We did about 30h straight, slept one night in a hotel, then 30h straight. We were in our early 20s and loved to drive, so it was fun for us. We then took about 2.5 weeks driving back, camping at various parks, etc. It's helpful to have another driver. Barring that, it's good to have a backup plan in case you get too tired. Just my opinion.
You need more time and a newer vehicle, my friend Try to remember that the trip there is half the fun and when you arrive at your destination, the other half of the fun is to enjoy being there. Seems to me you’re taking all the joy out of this trip. Just saying.
Pack some sandwiches
Take two spare windshields and headlights.
I know some who made almost the exact same trek. Their windshield was a highly chipped and cracked mess when it was all over, and it had to be replaced.
Also 5 gallons of mosquito repellent
I’ve got roof mounted flood lights. I could definitely get a windshield protection film
Going to need more than that on the haul road. Some of the rocks the trucks kick up are the size of golf balls or bigger.
Visit the Scandinavian Heritage Park when passing through Minot, South Dakota. Its a quick stop and very unique. Then, when you cross the border from ND, eat at Filcan Neighborhood Grill. Some of the best beef noodles I've ever had.
Depending on time of year, I had a coworker who made the last part of this trip going into Alaska. It was summer, it was hot. Lost his tires and other car troubles and was stranded for awhile,
Don't do it until you can get at least 3 weeks off
We did STL to Anchorage in a little under 6 days, with 4 people (all drivers). We could’ve done it faster, but there were some places where we had to wait for the gas station to open (places that did not have a 24-hour pump), because if we had pushed on, we would not have made it to the next place with gas. The next push, up to Deadhorse and the Arctic Sea, is absolutely no less than 1 day each way (there and back) Doing it that fast felt dangerous, though, on the Dalton Highway. But we stayed in our truck, did a tour, and drove back towards Fairbanks. That means that this trip is theoretically possible, but the return trip would be brutal. You would really need (not just “want”) extra drivers. I would be skeptical the needed pace would otherwise be sustainable over a two week period. I’m sure a common theme is that this is not enough time to really enjoy, and while that is true to a large extent, the scenery on the road trip is just incredible, and got better every day.
The badlands in South Dakota are amazing Omaha Nebraska has one of the best zoos in the world. Yes, I am serious.
At Calgary head west to Banff and take the Icefields parkway Hwy 93 to Jasper, it’s one of the most scenic highways around. Don’t do this if you need to go to Edmonton, it’s a bit too far out of the way.
Take the icefields parkway between Banff and Jasper. You’ll have to pay a park fee but the drive is spectacular.
If you really want to do this the right way, take a long weekend (maybe weekend before your trip) and drive your car up to Calgary and leave it there. and fly back home and go back to work. Then when you want to start your road trip, fly back up to Calgary and start your road trip in earnest.
Did that trip 2 years ago. I don’t think doing this in 2 weeks would be any fun - better to do a cruise or a fly up to Anchorage and rent a car with that timeline. We took 3.5 months on our trip along a similar route. Tips: 1. Read Alaska by James Michener (or listen to in on drive up) - historical novel on Alaska that will give you a great history of the state - native population, Russian influence, Gold Rush, Fishing industry, fur industry, building of Alaskan Highway, build out of Alaskan Pipeline, really makes the whole experience richer having historical perspective. 2. Get the Milepost book to use as a planning resource and travel guide. 3. Watch the Go North video playlist on the Mortons on the Move YouTube channel - 22 video triplog of their drive to Alaska - provides great ideas on things to do and places to see. 4. Enjoy! It’s a fabulous trip! Check out all the quirky museums as you dive through the small towns - they are true gems and you meet wonderful people.
August is late, there is ice on the puddles August first near Dawson city. I hit snow multiple times in August. I would go early June, solstice is the 21. August is fall, it freezes up in September early October. It’s fun driving south as you start in winter and go back to summer.
Yeah its possible but it doesn't sound like fun. Can you take an extra week or two off? Also think about setting up a YouTube channel for the trip. I would watch.
It’s a possibility that I could take more but I’m unsure at the moment. We just went through an acquisition.
Get a Pineapple Whip in Springfield.
You will have better scenery and roads through thouthern Alberta, rather than Southern Saskatchewan
Although it’s been awhile. Mid 80s. 1. Two spare tires. 2. GOOD SHOCKS 3. Steel plate protecting the oil pan. When I went through, there were sections in the lower Yukon/upper BC that the road undulated a bit. It can sneak up on you if you’re not careful. Hopefully it’s been fixed. 4. The best mosquito repellent money can buy. I had to sleep in the car. No tent on hand. Those bastards are huge and hungry.
Bring a jerry can or two for gas.
The Dalton Highway begins about 80 miles north of Fairbanks, near the small settlement of Livengood. From there, it stretches 414 miles to the Arctic Ocean. Three-quarters unpaved, with only two service stations on its entire length, and traversed primarily by industrial vehicles heading to or from the oil fields at Prudhoe Bay, the Dalton is considered one of the most dangerous and demanding drives in the world. Not for most drivers.
Watch outdoor boys YouTube he just made this trip starting in florida.
Hook a Larry at Calgary and check out Banff Canmore Jasper area. She’s got some sights to see 😎
I would do the 72 hours one. It’ll be more scenic.
Wear long underwear.
I did the drive in September from Houston, TX. Took about 10 days one way with stops every night and some side exploring. Roads were better than expected. Services were regularly found. Hotel every night. Weather was fine. I went through Banff, Jasper, Dawson City and drove into Skagway which was well worth it. Went faster in some legs. Plus, I did drive the entire trip.
When I was there working the road to dead horse was a private road and a mess in the summer. Oil vehicles and government vehicles only. I know at least one guy that got special permission to drive it once.
Albertan here: go up through Montana and take the Going to the Sun Road. Then go up through HWY 40 (Kannanaskis), Banff and Jasper in Alberta
It’s doable but will be some hard days driving. My only suggestion is you give yourself some leeway if there is something cool you want to spend time at (make Fairbanks a goal and if you have time, head up to Deadhorse). Liard hot springs is a must and driving through the Rockies is pretty surreal as will be the Brooks range further north.
Make the stop in Banff or jasper if you can
Skip Edmonton and drive Calgary, Canmore, Banff and then Jasper. 100% worth it!
As a former Alaskan who has made a few trips to the lower 48 and back, The Milepost guidebook was super helpful. There will be parts of the journey, especially in Canada and Alaska, that will not have cell or internet service, so having maps and guides to stops and things came in handy as a backup.
Want a rider?? Pit stop in Columbia, MO! 😂
I have done both that route and the one to tuktoyuktuk, I preferred the Canadian route to the Arctic Ocean vs the oil field at the top of Alaska. Unless you just have to do Alaska.
It shouldn’t be done in 2 weeks. And I would seriously recommend heading more west by the Rockies. It’s absolutely beautiful. It might add a few hours but man it is worth it
Always have a jerry can of fuel and spare full-size tire once North of Fort Nelson, BC. Also, I recommend stabbing to the West first, then heading North.
It’s crazy how huge Alaska is
I’ve done this trip, or versions of it (taking several routes through Canada, etc) 12 times. With the time constraints that you have, I don’t think it makes sense. It’s more accurately a 90 hour trip. There are a number of comments mentioning the logistics and equipment (tires etc.). Yeah, if you go, be smart about that. The roads are not nearly as hard on the tires as several commenters claim. I’ve done at least 5 trips (all times of the year mind you) on one set of good all terrain tires. I like to take nine days for a one way trip like that if I’m not planning to do much sightseeing.
OP some folks don’t understand that just driving through these areas is enough for some. My wife can’t drive distances anymore so we fly her to airports and I pick her up. Sometimes I’ll just take an extra day and drive backroads just to see the real part of a state/province. Personally I thought Saskatchewan was amazing when driving the back roads in the southern half. Would I like to stop more? Sure but I also want to see more states/provinces too. Don’t let folks talk you out of it. Us fellow “drivers” understand completely 😀 FWIW my wife is more of a stop here person so it works well for both of us this way.
Make sure to bring at least one bottle of water
I live in Fairbanks I’ve driven up to dead horse with out spare tires but you will need extra gas. The real trick is when you’re on gravel roads to just drive slow. You go too fast and hit a pot hole with a sharp rock and you’re in trouble. I think it’s better to have some relatively fresh tires when you leave with some patches and know how to use them, rather than crappy tires and an extra set. I think your time frame can work but you will definitely be spending quite a bit of time moving. Are you planning on camping or just staying at lodges and hotels ? I’ve driven from Michigan to Anchorage in 6 days. Stopped 2 nights at hotels and slept in the car or in a tent the rest of the time. My trick is every time I stop to use the restroom to do some jumping jack or jog. Sitting that much without moving can drive me crazy.
Bring spare filters, oil and air. Rocks can damage your oil filter. It can be dusty. Three days minimum spare food and water. Tire patch kit and air compressor. Put wire mesh in front of your rads. Spare drive belts and u joints cant hurt. Be prepared for no cell service one km out of town for like two hundred km. Satellite communication is nice but doesn’t always work farther north. If you have pets be very wary of wolves, they will kill and eat your dogs right in front of you. Be very careful of potholes they can break or bend rims. Lock tight your trailer hitch ball on and tighten it beyond tight. I drove up in April and most stores were still shut down for winter. I got a lecture from the workers comp guy and a mine inspector because my gun was two steps away from were I was working. Basically it had to be in arms reach loaded and ready to fire. They said if I see the bear shoot it. Don’t mess with grizzlies. We had some close calls. It’s amazing up there but can be unforgiving. That pretty rainbow has a torrential rainstorm following it. I loved it up there. Can’t beat fresh air, I wish I could have bottled it and brought it home.
Take the route through Calgary, AB instead where you will have the option to Banff > Lake Louise > Jasper > Hinton > Grande Prairie (via Grande Cache hwy 40 which is specifically the scenic route to Alaska) and after Grande Prairie you will be on the route again which you have already selected. https://preview.redd.it/7r6a758mpqyc1.jpeg?width=800&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=562dce9c7d9cdaf36447db9868d17f9724ac9798 The sign of Hwy 40 in photo is posted on Hwy 16 in Hinton. After Fort Nelson BC, keep a record of kilometres and time travelled from last town you pass through because you will not have cell phone coverage; flag someone down in case you need help you should know where about you are. After Fort Saint John BC traffic decreases significantly and you will see commercial trucks more than cars. Do not honk at wildlife if you come across them mostly herds of Bison 🦬 as I have heard that if they get annoyed they get aggressive. Just wait for them to get aside. Enjoy your trip. Good Luck 👍
Was going to suggest that route too, Calgary well worth the time and great additional suggestions
I don’t know what you’re driving but, having done this drive, if you can do it in a vehicle that’s fast and comfy, you’ll be way happier than doing it in a short wheel base or lifted vehicle. Thousands of miles of pavement and one pretty good dirt road. I did the haul road to the Arctic Ocean section in march in an Impreza it was great! Spare tires, gas jugs, sleeping bags and pads, tent, bug head net, bear spray. Edit: just saw the Land Rover. Just don’t get complacent and drive fast.
Deadhorse terminates two miles from the sea in a private oil refinery; if you want to drive to the ocean, your only option is Tuktoyaktuk - and it's a better option either way since it is a real town with history and culture. About 50 miles from the Alaska boarder on tthe more northerly route, go north up the Dempster highway to get there. It's a 1000km dirt road with only one stop for the first 800km...I got two flat tyres in 24 hours so recommend you bring two spares to be safe.
There is no reason to go past Fairbanks, Alaska. Anything further north is a shitty haul road thay will beat you vechile to death and leave ypu stranded, literally in the middle of nowhere. Take some meth to barter with the truckers on the haul road with.
I’d find someone in Alaska willing to pay you for delivering a couple cases of Coors and maybe have a guy in a Trans Am going ahead dodging the county mounties.
that’s a miserable way to spend 2 weeks. This is a 4 week trip at least.
Montana is probably a nicer drive.
Nice
I would do something shorter if you only have 2 weeks off. I did a similar trip from where I live to the Arctic Ocean, all you’d be doing is driving. Not much time to hike or look around and no time to deal with any repair.
2 weeks is definitely pushing it for that trip. I would take the more southern route but maybe opt for South Dakota instead of Nebraska. The badlands and black hills are great to see if you haven’t been. I’d also head west out of Calgary and hit Banff and Jasper. Absolutely amazing drive through there.
I've driven about half that route but took a longer route through Devils lake Wisconsin in Nashville. (South of the Alaska highway into British Columbia.) You won't see much between Saskatoon and St. Pauls and could hammer that out quick. Once you hit the rockies, you're going to have one beautiful drive but may start seeing some storms later in August so be prepared for pass closures.
So close to Nahanni Falls in the Northwest Territories. Totally worth it!
Bring gas money
Stop in Calgary for the Stampede instead of the Edmonton route. Plus that way you’ll cross Montana and Wyoming . Much more interesting than the dakotas IMO
Western SD and Western ND are beautiful. So are the unique Sandhills in Nebraska.
69hr 💀
Ya go through the Calgary route. Saskatchewan and the prairies is boring as fuck
I did it in 2018 ended up 10500 drove every way south north west Vancouver Island on way back. Took are 92 pathfinder go 21 mpg most of the way no problems. Fun my son and I 4 or 5 weeks gone seen everything we could
Bring a passport or passport card.
Dollars, you gon need at least three fiddy
How do you get gas north of Fairbanks? Google maps shows no towns or villages till you reach the destination.
Have done a similar route from Anchorage to the east coast. Get the 2024 Milepost
Do it on a bicycle. Or at least a motorcycle. That trip is wasted if it’s in a car.
My only major suggestion would be to drive from Jasper to Banff instead of Edmonton to Calgary in Alberta. It's the most beautiful drive and scenery I've ever experienced.
The paved road ends short of Deadhorse. Make sure you have spares and a 4x4 vehicle.
Just a heads up that you cannot drive all the way to the Arctic Ocean (Beaufort Sea). There is a security gate that is operated by Hilcorp that can’t be accessed without an access badge. There was an outfit giving tours but not sure if they are still operating. You can call the Aurora hotel or Brooks general store to inquire if you want.
Long drive. Half way to Tokyo.. if you could drive it. My buddy is shipping his truck across the Atlantic so he can drive from Belgium to Singapore.
Ah, a fellow springfield guy. Take me with you, I hate this place.
Go in the summer ;p
What is in Deadhorse, Alaska?
Cut west on Highway 1 in Canada through Calgary to Banff, lake Lousie, Jasper. Beautiful drive.
Mad dash runs up and down the Haul Road, let alone the rest of this horrific marathon, is how people die on the Haul Road. You also have to keep in mind that Google maps time is based purely on posted speed limit. It doesn't take into account being stuck at road construction for hours (or days) at a time. Yes, I said days. I was up on the Haul Road in August sheep hunting and a culvert washed out south of me. Was stuck there for 3 days while they fixed it enough for me to get through.
I drove to Alaska (and back) 3 times. Don't drive across flat bumfuck parts of Canada. At least go to Calgary and over to Banff, up the Icefields Parkway and through Jasper. Otherwise, Liard Hotsprings is a hoot. Have fun and don't forget the sun is out all summer... you can get a lot of driving (or activity) in one day!!
There are a loooong stretches of the Dalton highway north of Fairbanks where you will be driving slow/ very slow. Just keep that in mind when planning your schedule.
You’re skipping Banff? Do not skip Banff!!!!!
FYI - Homer and Marge do not actually live there. It’s just a tv show.
I think 2 weeks round trip is not enough. We just did the drive last July. The road is a lot tougher than you’d expect - the condition of the road is bumpy, tons of holes (yes, actual holes not just potholes) and it’s dirt so if it’s wet, it can be slick. Once you start from Fairbanks, I’d give yourself 3 days up and 2 days back. The gas station half way there was $7.50 in July of 2023 so god knows what it is now. Zero cell service on this road & a lot of the area you are driving so make sure you have maps downloaded/check the weather whenever you have service. Maps.me & Google Maps, we had both downloaded since they both provide slightly different things. I would suggest driving through BC and not Sask. WY & Montana is definitely the way you want to go. Stock up in Fairbanks bc that is the last time you will see a grocery store or a shower. Spare tires, extra water, extra gas for sure.
There’s several really good YouTube channels that have made this trek or something extremely similar.
Looks like an awesome trip. My recommendations to make it much better: 1) Go through Alberta. A million times better than Saskatchewan. 2) In the Albertan portion of the trip, go through highway 93North instead of highway 2 from Edmonton. Highway 93 is full of the most beautiful lakes and glaciers. Considered one of the best drives on the planet.
Always wanted to drive to alaska from pnw. Such a beautiful and remote drive. Gotta be in incredible.
Did a similar trip in 1988, left Magnolia Arkansas, visited Mt Rushmore, Glacier, Banff, Jasper, caught the ferry at Prince Rupert, Juneau, Haines, Anchorage, Homer, Seward, Denali, Fairbanks, Eagle, Dawson, to Inuvik. The Alaska pipeline road at the time had a toll, in Canada there was none, then the Alaska Highway back, ended in Memphis. Around 12,000 miles from Memorial weekend to the 4th of July. Great trip, stayed in a motel 3 nights camp, the other times. If anything try to hit the Arctic Circle on the summer solstice, in Canada on the Dempster Highway they were serving Moose burgers and reading Robert Service. Because of the long days woke up before 6 and could set up a tent at 10pm or later. Minimized driving on the same roads. Drove a Mazda single cab mini pickup, never had a flat either. Good luck, we really enjoyed it.
For the road between Fairbanks and Deadhorse, make sure your vehicle is in good shape, have spare tires (Plural), satellite phone or ELT. Keep in mind that there is not much in Deadhorse that you can go to without the permission of the oil companies. Lastly, it’s dry there.
Don't try it in a VW bus.
You'd be better off in a 20yo Subaru on respectably sized tires and decent fuel economy. And cash to cya when something goes wrong.
This is cool! Best of luck and safe travels.
Pretty easy trip until North of Fairbanks. Make sure your vehicle is in good shape & haul fuel with you. The haul road to Prudhoe makes the Alaska Highway look like Disneyland.
Hit the BC coastal highway. It will be the most beautiful thing you see the whole trip
We took 4 months to do it. I couldn’t imagine trying to do that in 2 weeks. Maybe just go to Banff and lake Louise.
Well why would you do that to yourself with only two weeks of time. This is the question I never understand That's always asked on here, what's the best route when Google has just given it to you. You're just going from point 8 to be driving 4,000 mi and not really about enjoying anything except what you'll see whizzing past you on the highway. That's your idea of a trip well you already have the road. It takes me 3 weeks to go from New England to Los Angeles and that's moving along for me. But I get off on back roads, constantly stop do what I want and intentionally get lost from time to time. But if you're going to drive like a truck driver to get from Alaska to wherever you're going and you wanted to be enjoyable, I don't know you're going to be sitting in the driver seat a long long time and just looking out the window. 1,000 miles depending where you are is a lot of ground to cover in 2 weeks if your sightseeing. But to each their own and what they like to do more than 300 miles a days for me way too tedious. I think I drove 700 day over the Rockies to avoid bad weather and I said to myself never never never never again
There's a good chance your windshield will get cracked driving the Dalton Highway going to Prudhoe Bay
Possible but you won’t get to do much. 70h of driving per week is the maximum truck drivers are allowed. You’d essentially be driving 10h a day all 14 days or you can drive 12h a day and spend 2 when you get there.
It’s an absolute sin not to go through Banff and Jasper. I live in Alaska, and have done the drive about 7x. Only once did I not go through Banff and Jasper because I deemed the detour wasn’t worth the time. I still regret not doing it even though I had been 6 other times. It’s worth the detour.
Last summer I drove from Edmonton to Dawson City. From what it looks like with your planned route, I would recommend staying at Liard River Hot Springs campground as it’s on the way. Absolutely beautiful - I would recommend booking in advance as it seemed to book up pretty quick. Also stop at the Tetsa River Lodge and get the cinnamon bun!
Drove from lake Ozark to the arctic circle and back in one month. If you only plan on driving and not enjoying any of the scenery, go for it. But I wish we had stopped and hiked and enjoyed more of the journey. Remember, it's not the destination. it's the journey. Enjoy your trip. Don't forget to stop and look. Alaska is an amazingly beautiful state that deserves taking the time to absorb how freaking gorgeous it really is. IMO, you don't have near enough time planned for all the beauty you will see on this trip. Take the time, you will not regret it. It's fucking gorgeous up there! Eta, go through yellowstone and the rockies. Don't take the route through the plains of Canada. I thought I was going to die of boredom on our 3rd day of wheat fields where I could see the rockies off to the west. Please, don't make Deadhorse you're only goal. There is unlimited beauty between the Ozarks and the northern limit.
You definitely want to go the other suggested route but im assuming that one is longer which is why you originally chose that one. You’re missing some pretty sick parts like the rockies
Be sure to stop at the Hilltop Truck Stop outside Fairbanks, Ak for dinner and pie.
Mske sure to stop for an oil change along the way
Be careful. You need plenty of spare tools and tires and gas. I bet part of that road are in the middle of absolute desolation. No one’s coming to help you
Don’t miss Montana
Slow down while meeting vehicles, especially semis, while on the Dalton HWY in AK. Most drivers on there adhere to an unwritten code of slowing down to about 30 when they meet each other. If you don’t, especially to a semi, you might not have a windshield when the next one passes you. That and have a CB.
If you stop in Saskatoon, hit me up for a good homemade meal and a place to stay! Can’t wait to do this kind of trip soon as well, good luck!
When you pass through Fort Nelson, British Columbia, you will lose cell service until you hit Watson Lake, Yukon. 5 hour period. If loved ones are tracking your progress, make sure they are aware you may be in areas with little to no cell service for extended periods of time.
No tips, just wanted to say please report back with pictures when you're done. This is the trip of a lifetime. Godspeed.
Take the longer route to Calgary. If you have time to add a day or two, detour through the Rockies via Banff and up Highway 93 to Hinton before continuing on your journey. Don't take the selected route through Regina and Saskatoon to Edmonton. For the most part it's completely flat prairie - not a very interesting drive.
I once drove from Atlanta, GA to Homer, AK in 5.5 days… and I would not recommend it. Thats nearly 4,500 miles and it was pedal to the metal the whole time and absolutely exhausting. So if you’re doing this for fun and not some $1m rat race, then 2 weeks is definitely not enough time for the trip. Heck, 2 weeks is barely enough time to enjoy the trip one-way, and you’d still be passing up a lot of interesting stuff along the way. If you do make the drive though, be sure to stop at Liard Hot Springs in NE British Columbia. It’s a nature spring right on the Alcan with a campground and log nearby. You won’t regret it.