Alaska, the first US state bordering the Arctic Ocean, has earned its reputation as "the world's last wilderness."
While many people may associate it with the pioneering situation, the enchanting aurora borealis in Fairbanks, or encounters with Eskimo sled dogs and majestic brown bears in the wilderness, this trip will take you on a chase of a different kind—a journey through the heart of Alaska's wilderness roads.
Beginning your adventure by entering the United States from Canada, you will head north on the Dalton Highway, which leads to the Arctic Ocean, before making your way south to the end of Highway 1—the world's longest access road to the sea.
Along the way, you will also cross Highway 8 twice, a road deliberately maintained in its original state, and conclude your journey by departing via Highways 4 and 5. Although Alaska's highway network in the wilderness is not dense, the breathtaking scenery along these roads is more than enough to support a road blockbuster.
One of the most captivating times to visit Alaska is during the fall—the land is painted with vibrant hues. As you travel north from Fairbanks on Highway 2, you will soon find yourself immersed in true wilderness.
The neat rows of mailboxes along the roadside and occasional oilfield haulers serve as gentle reminders of human presence. The sparse growth of trees on either side, a result of the tundra, showcases their stunted height, with their white and black branches delicately interspersed among shrubs.
The ground is adorned with low-lying cranberries, casting a bright purple carpet over the terrain.
For those starting their journey from Vancouver or the Lower Mainland, the route begins along Canada Highway 1, heading east through Hopetown, Leeton, and Cash Creek. Continuing north on Highway 97 through Williams Lake and Prince George, you will eventually reach Dawson Creek.
At the iconic "Mile 0" pole in Dawson Creek, your exploration commences. Begin by visiting the Visitor Center, where you can delve into the fascinating history of the Alaska Highway.
Then, make your way to the Northern Alberta Railway Station Museum and the local Museum of Fine Arts, located within the renovated barn tower.
Dawson Creek's wetlands offer a fantastic opportunity for birdwatching. Explore McQueen's Slough Waterfowl Sanctuary's boardwalk, which extends throughout the park, allowing you to delve deep into the marsh without compromising the integrity of the natural habitat.
The Dalton Highway, constructed in the 1970s, runs parallel to the oil pipeline, traversing Alaska from the "capital of the Aurora Borealis," Fairbanks, to the "oil town" of Deadhorse.
This highway provides a perfect opportunity to combine a north-south crossing of Alaska with a cruise itinerary north to Alaska's pristine waters.
Stretching 666 kilometers, the road is 25% paved with asphalt and 75% unpaved, consisting of gravel and other surfaces.
Don't expect to find many restaurants, gift stores, or gas stations along the way—instead, embrace the serene forests, sprawling tundra, and majestic mountains, with the roads and pipelines weaving through them like ribbons.
Even without the amenities of modern civilization, the scenery along these roads remains a sight to behold, sure to captivate all who embark on this extraordinary journey through Alaska's untamed wilderness.
