The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Alaska Highway (Alcan) in 2025–2026
The Alaska Highway (commonly called the Alcan) is a legendary 1,387-mile (2,232 km) route from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska. This bucket-list drive traverses stunning wilderness, northern Rocky Mountains, boreal forests, and vast tundra, offering wildlife sightings and remote beauty.
As of late 2025, the highway remains mostly paved with occasional chip-seal sections and summer construction zones that can create rough patches, potholes, or gravel detours. Check real-time conditions via 511.alaska.gov (Alaska side) or 511yukon.ca (Yukon/BC). The road stays open year-round, but winter brings extreme cold and ice.
Best Time to Drive
Late May to mid-September offers optimal conditions: snow-free roads, long daylight (up to 20+ hours in June/July), and open services. Peak season runs June–August for warm weather and wildlife. Early September brings vibrant fall colors with fewer crowds and lower bug activity. Avoid October–April unless prepared for -40°F/C temperatures, short days, and closures.
Road Conditions & Vehicle Tips
The route is fully drivable in standard vehicles (even low-clearance 2WD cars), though AWD/4WD helps on gravel. Expect frost heaves, construction, and wildlife—drive cautiously with headlights on. Carry:
- Spare tire
- Jack
- Repair kit
- Extra gas can (stations span 100–200 miles)
- Fluids
- Jumper cables
Most sections are paved; rough spots get marked.
Border Crossing Info (Updated 2025)
No COVID restrictions remain. Carry passports. Declare firearms (strict Canadian rules: handguns often prohibited; long guns need declaration and possible $25–50 fee). Pets require rabies vaccination proof. Avoid fresh meat/produce; packaged foods usually pass. Marijuana stays illegal across borders.
Fuel & Services
Gas stations appear regularly in towns, but remote stretches require planning. Prices run higher than urban areas (expect CAD ~$1.80–2.20/L in Canada; USD ~$3.80–4.50/gallon in Alaska as of late 2025). Cell service is spotty—download offline maps and consider a satellite device.
Highlights Along the Route
Key stops include:
- Muncho Lake — Stunning turquoise waters in the Rockies.
- Liard River Hot Springs — Natural pools (42–52°C/108–126°F) open year-round; provincial park campground available.
- Watson Lake Sign Post Forest — Quirky collection of over 80,000 signs.
- Kluane National Park — Epic mountains, glaciers, and hikes (visitor centers seasonal).
- Carcross Desert (detour) — World’s smallest desert (1 sq mile of dunes).
Accommodations & Camping
Options include motels, lodges, RV parks, and campgrounds (many seasonal). Prices (approximate 2025):
- Camping — CAD $20–50/site
- Motels — CAD $100–200/night (Canada); USD $100–200 (Alaska)
Book ahead in summer. Free dispersed camping exists in spots.
How Long & Itinerary Tips
Allow 5–14 days. Rush it in 4–5 days or leisurely explore parks/detours (e.g., Cassiar Highway alternative). Grab The Milepost for mile-by-mile details.
This timeless adventure demands preparation but delivers unmatched rewards. Safe travels—watch for moose and enjoy the views! If you have specific questions (e.g., winter driving or detours), ask below.