road trip to arctic circle

Driving to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks, Alaska

Driving to the Arctic circle from Fairbanks, Alaska is one of our most adventurous day trips in our lives till now. Something we wanted to check off our list but did not expect it would happen in winter. Alaska, one of our favorite states in the US, is a complete contrast in each season. Winter being the most exciting yet dangerous given the extreme cold temperatures. If you want to get to the top of the world, by car, you are in the right place.

What is the Arctic Circle?

In the literal sense, it is an imaginary circular line around the world. It marks the northernmost point on the earth where the sun does not set during Summer solstice and does not rise during winter Solstice. The region beyond this line is known as the arctic where you can experience at least 24hours of darkness in winter and 24hours of sunlight in summer. There are 8 countries which share the arctic region and the USA is one of them.

Different ways of getting to the Arctic Circle Sign

Alaska has a sign/board at the point of arctic circle beyond which you enter the Arctic region. This is a famous tourist spot in the summer and less in the winter since getting to this point has its own challenges and in the winter it is even more so.

Dalton Highway is the famous single road that leads to the arctic circle which is 80 miles from Fairbanks, Alaska.

There are 2 ways to get to the arctic circle sign.

Take a Tour bus : There are tour companies which organize day trips to the arctic circle sign and even have trips spanning days to go into the arctic region all the way to the Arctic ocean. For trips beyond the sign and till the arctic ocean, it usually includes a flight since there are no drivable roads beyond a point. You can check out various guided tour options here.

Drive to the Arctic circle independently : If you are the more adventurous type, like us, you can rent a special car to drive yourself to the Arctic circle sign. It takes roughly about 6-7 hours. You have to know that it is NOT like a regular road trip whatsoever. You need to take a lot of precautions before you decide to drive. Read more to find out!

Things to know before driving to the Arctic Circle Sign in Winter

So let’s say you decide to drive on your own all the way to the arctic circle and maybe beyond. There are a couple of things you must know, which we didn’t. 

There is only a single road that leads to the Arctic circle – The Dalton highway. It is a rough gravel road built alongside the trans-Alaska oil pipeline in the 1970s. The road winds 414 miles alongside the Arctic National Park till Prudhoe bay, beyond which there is no road. At mile 115 you reach the Arctic circle. This road is mainly used by heavy/huge trucks for oil transportation from the Arctic. The road is wide enough but has blind curves along the way, something to keep in mind.

Renting a car

No Rental company will allow you to take their car up the Dalton Highway since it is dangerous for the car as well as a liability issue for them. You will need to rent a specially equipped car to drive up the road and for good reason.

We rented our car from Arctic Outfitters

It is expensive, but worth it since the car is well equipped and sturdy. It was October, the beginning of winter when we drove to the arctic circle. It was surreal with no traffic except for huge trucks, not a soul in sight except for a huge expanse of snow covered mountains.

Time to drive

It took us roughly 6-7 hours one way to get to the Arctic circle sign. So make sure you start your journey really early to get back before nightfall. In winter, you might have to start as early as 4 AM. You can drive beyond the arctic circle sign till Coldfoot or even beyond if you plan to stay somewhere along the way. We crossed the arctic circle, made friends with some gray jays (birds) and headed back.

Important thing to remember, there will be NO signal before you even enter the Dalton highway, so your mobile is no good. There is absolutely nothing on either side of the highway, so make sure you pack a good amount of food with you. In the winter, we did not meet a single soul for hours together until we stopped at a gas station in Yukon river camp. Make sure you fill up the car full tank before you start, in between going and coming back.

The rental company gave us a map which we used to get to Dalton Highway. The car comes equipped with a satellite mobile, camping gear, in case of emergencies. You also get a satellite radio to communicate with the truckers on the road. You MUST use this to warn them when you are taking a blind curve so that they don’t bump into you and you go falling off the cliff. Don’t be shy, just talk to them on the radio. Everytime we climbed uphill or took a blind curve, we were blaring into the radio. They must have been so annoyed lol.

The drive is out of the world in winter. It’s white everywhere. Snow covered mountains on either side and ice up coniferous trees which later opened up into Arctic Tundra. Pictures do no justice to what we saw. It was nature in its purest form, untouched, raw and real.

Arctic Circle Sign

You will see a sign as you near the Arctic circle. To be honest, it was kind of an anti climax once we reached the spot. The spot has a sign/board, few picnic tables and restrooms. Since it was winter, we were the only ones there. The gray jays seemed too friendly, probably the result of people feeding them in the summer. It was freezing out there, so our main goal was to cross into the arctic, take some pictures beside the sign for bragging rights and head back. 

Nevertheless, the journey till there made it all up.

Can you go beyond the Arctic Circle sign?

You can drive beyond the Arctic Circle sign, up to Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay, beyond which there is no road. The nearest city to the arctic circle sign is Coldfoot, about 2.5 hours away. This city is mainly a stop over after a whole day of driving. It also offers some touristy activities. Habitation in the cities around the arctic circle consists mainly of workers/truckers in the industry of oil development at Prudhoe Bay oil field. There are tour buses/flights which take you till the arctic ocean. The tour usually spans over 2-3 days.

Thankful to have driven and got back safely on this once in a lifetime adventure, we definitely recommend this activity via a tour bus or on your own (with lots of precautions). Experiencing nature in its raw form gives you a sense of perspective that you can never get surrounded by all the distractions we have in our life today.

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Driving to the Arctic Circle, Norway: our bucketlist road trip to the Arctic!

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Driving to the Arctic circle in Norway. It sounded crazy, the distances were crazy and the timings were crazy but then, we’re crazy when it comes to our travel bucketlist! 24 hour brightness and the chance to stand in the Arctic were too great a temptation and, before we knew it, a visit to the Arctic Circle was penciled into our Norway route. As we started our road trip, which took us from Oslo, through the Fjordlands and onto Bud, it became apparent that distances in Norway should be measured not in kilometres but in units of full day drives! By the time we arrived in Bud, a town close to the Atlantic Road on Norway’s north west coast, our Arctic Circle dream had been put to bed and replaced with a relaxing 3 day drive back to Oslo taking in all the sights along the way.

Of course that didn’t turn out to be the case!

Driving the Arctic Circle

As we awoke to another stunning Norwegian sunrise in our cosy little Bud cabin Elaine planted the seed of possibility. ‘You know Dave we could totally make it to the Arctic circle tonight if we really wanted to’. You guessed it, we wanted to!! We were unaware setting out from Bud that morning that two days of the most exciting, white-knuckle, exhausting drives but ultimately one of the most unforgettable trips of our lives lay ahead of us. We experienced so many amazing moments in the 48 hours following our spur of the moment decision: beautiful countryside, a surreal encounter with a wild elk, a stay in one of Norway’s most beautiful cabins, copious amounts of coffee, a quick 12 hour detour to the UNESCO inscribed Vega Islands and of course….standing at the Arctic Circle itself.

Planning our drive to the Arctic Circle

A quick search revealed that the Arctic Circle Centre, located in the Saltfjellet mountains just inside the Arctic Circle itself, was almost 800km from our cabin in Bud. Our GPS was predicting a 14 hour drive including some sightseeing stops. The plan was to take shifts of driving, swapping when the other got tired and repeating this system until we made it to the Arctic Circle. In hindsight it was a crazy, spur of the moment decision but let’s face it: they’re always the best kind. This one most definitely led to an amazing adventure!

Renting a Car in Norway

Renting a car in Norway is the best way to explore the country. Driving conditions are really good with extremely good quality roads throughout the entire country. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace through the Fjord lands and see places that are simply not possible on group tours or public transport.

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in over 40 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. Book your car now with RentalCars.com , where you will find the best rental car prices

Click here for the best rental car prices

First Stop: The Atlantic Road!

We had spent the previous evening exploring the Atlantic Road and we loved it so much we returned that morning to catch one last glimpse before setting off for the Arctic! It’s easy to see why the Atlantic Road is known as the world’s most beautiful roads: for 8.3 kilometres it snakes up and around an archipelago of islands from Bud to Kristiansund. It was amazing to feel the power of the ocean as it relentlessly pounded and the wind howled around the small islands and structures supporting the Atlantic Road itself. It’s worth setting aside a few hours to marvel at this amazing structure which was voted Norway’s engineering feat of the century!

Our route took us from Bud in the Northern Fjordland region of Norway, across the magnificent Atlantic Road, through Trondheim and then up the long and winding road north to the Arctic Circle.

A Fly By: Trondheim!

By late morning we reached the outskirts of Trondheim and stopped for some snacks and a quick power nap. Due to the mammoth drive ahead of us we didn’t have time to take in the Trondheim sights and vowed to return. Once we were east of Trondheim it was a simple left turn and then north up towards the Arctic circle! We now faced the exciting 600 km trip north.

Entering Nordland: The Drive North!

Leaving Trondheim in our rear-view we started to wonder what the next few hours held in store. The scenery was lush and green and just north of Trondheim we entered Nordland, the county separating southern Norway from Troms in the north.

Advancing north we both assumed that the countryside would become less inhabited and increasingly barren but it turned out to be the opposite. The scenery did change but it was for the better and we passed many picturesque villages and houses as we cruised on northwards. The highlight of the drive was the road itself.

Although it is the main road to Northern Norway, the E6 snakes north slowly, twisting and turning to the contours of the rugged, yet immensely beautiful countryside. Cutting through the middle of Nordland, the road runs the length of Norway and we were on this road for the majority of our final 3 days in Norway!

The E6 was entirely unforgiving as it continued to throw countless bends at us. There was very little other traffic on the road and there were periods when we didn’t meet another vehicle for over an hour or so. Like so many places in Norway, at times we hit patches of pure wilderness and there was nothing for miles and miles but us, the open road and the beautiful surroundings.

The relentless twists of the road meant we had to take frequent breaks to rest and snack but we continued on for the afternoon. We were aiming to reach the town of Mo I Rana, just south of the Arctic circle, by early evening and arrange a cabin for the night. From there we planned to drive towards the Arctic circle itself early the next morning.

After a caffeine fuelled 14 hour drive from Bud to Mo I Rana we finally reached our campsite at around 9 pm that evening. Having left Bud at 7 am to describe it as a long day was an understatement! Although tired and weary, once we discovered the gorgeous Ranfjorden views from our cabin balcony we completely forgot about the long drive earlier. A warm bed, hot water and a balcony affording us panoramic views across the fjord and we were all set for the evening!

The Arctic Circle

As we sat down to relax and chat about the day’s events I leaned over to Elaine and jokingly told her of my conversation with the campsite owner. ‘You know the Arctic circle is only 90 minutes from here….we could definitely go tonight’ The stunning fjord views must have given us a renewed energy as, despite the long day and feeling depleted just minutes earlier, we grabbed some snacks and jumped in the car with one goal in mind. A final destination of the Arctic Circle!

We knew that we would reach the Arctic Circle after midnight. The cabin owner had told us that, although there would be no mid-night sun due the time of year the entire drive would still be bathed in a long sunset. The drive from Mo I Rana to the Arctic Circle was a trip we’ll never forget. As we passed the many reindeer farms the landscape started to change drastically. The surroundings became more barren with the countryside becoming noticeably less green.

At this point we were running on pure adrenaline and we were relived when we emerged from the ravine road out into the Arctic wilderness and were met with our first Arctic Circle sign: we were 2 kilometres from the Arctic Circle!

We finally arrived at the Arctic Circle and hopped out of the car into the freezing midnight temperatures to explore! Obviously at that late hour the centre was closed but we were happy to run around by ourselves and enjoy with the stunning views while high fiving at the success of our epic road trip!

We explored the area around the centre in the crisp midnight air and were amazed at how bright it still was. A line of rock pillars stretched into the horizon on either side marking the invisible Arctic Circle line of latitude. The only noise was the occasional passing car and the chirping of birds as they played in the eternal sunset.

We could have spent hours at the Arctic Circle simply staring at the sky with its rich and never ending sunset however by 1am we both knew that we needed to leave and get some sleep!

Like all return journeys the trip back to our cabin in Mo I Rana felt so much quicker. By the time we reached the cabin we barely had the energy to sit with a well earned beer, marvel again at the stunning fjord views and chat about our amazing day. It was truly one we’ll never forget.

The long trip back to Oslo

After a well deserved rest we set off on our three day adventure back to Oslo. It was sad saying goodbye to our incredible fjord views but we were ecstatic to have finally ticked the Arctic Circle off our bucket list. On the trip back to Oslo we visited two amazing UNESCO world heritage sites:  a 12 hour detour to the Vega Islands archipelago and a stop at the historic mining town of Røros, both unplanned but hey, it worked out well for us!

Arriving back in Oslo three days later we were finally able to take time to appreciate what we’d accomplished. Since leaving Bud four days previous we had driven over 2,000 km, visited the Arctic Circle, seen two amazing and lesser known UNESCO World Heritage sights and had a crazy amount of fun. We’d call that a success!

For more Norway adventures check our our Norway page here ! Our fave is 39 pics of an epic roadtrip !

7 thoughts on “Driving to the Arctic Circle, Norway: our bucketlist road trip to the Arctic!”

Great article, wife and plan to do similar. Up and back by car, might go up by train or bus or maybe fly and drive back, on the other hand round trip sounds fun. Thank you

Hi guys, What time of year did you take the trip?

Looks amazing 😊

We traveled at the start of June, so the Arctic Circle drive was in the first week of June

Thank you for the information. I am planning to get to Norway’s Artic Circle later this year, on motorcycle. As I plan to camp along the way I and would be interested to if there were enough petrol stations along the route up from Oslo. As I plan to camp for some nights on my journey I wondered if you noticed any problems with mosquito’s/bugs? Cheers for any assistance.

There were petrol stations along the route – if you map it on Google Maps and add in the petrol stations you can see how far you have to go without a stop. Some of the stations are unmanned/not attached to a shop so you need to have a credit card to purchase.

I don’t remember any mosquitos or bugs (and if they were there they would have found me!) – it was cold in June when we traveled and there were no bugs when we camped.

Have a great trip Elaine

Hi John, I am planning to travel in June in 2024 on my motorbike. Did you do it and any tips? Thanks, Carol

I am travelling on 17th May from Liverpool to AC by motorbike too! Look out for my green ninja x

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Arctic Circle Tours

Cross the Arctic Circle and experience the starkly beautiful, remote region with an experienced guide.

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• Arctic Ocean Adventure
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Surprisingly beautiful and yet undeniably wild, the Arctic is a reminder that much of Alaska is still vast, wild, and untouched.

The Arctic Circle Drive Adventure begins on the road from Fairbanks , winding its way into the permafrost landscape. This 380-mile roundtrip tour crosses the Arctic Circle and visits the trans-Alaska pipeline, Arctic Circle Trading Post, and mighty Yukon River as well as rural outposts Livengood and Joy.

The Arctic Circle Fly/Drive Adventure dives deep into the Arctic Circle and includes the same sightseeing as the drive adventure but returns from Coldfoot by a plane. See the Yukon River from above and maybe even caribou roaming the tundra.

Touch the frigid Arctic Ocean and witness the vastness of Alaska's permafrost on the three-day Arctic Ocean Adventure . It features a one-way drive along the Haul Road and a flight to or from Fairbanks. This is a fully guided experience along the Dalton Highway to Coldfoot, over stunning Atigun Pass, and through the Arctic Coastal Plain. Long days lead to unforgettable scenery and activities centered around life in the Far North. This package is for the truly curious and adventurous guest.

Visiting Alaska in early fall? This is the perfect time to spot the Aurora Borealis, or northern lights, on the fall Arctic Circle Aurora Fly/Drive Adventure . Start with a flight to tiny Coldfoot, then embark upon a ground tour back to Fairbanks in a comfortable van, hopefully catching the aurora flicker overhead as darkness arrives. This 15-hour trip is suitable for those eager to spot the lights and see the Arctic in person. Similar northern lights tours run through the winter as well.

The city of Fairbanks is the best base camp for Arctic exploring. Stay a few days in this Interior Alaska community before or after your Arctic Circle adventure. Fairbanks has several options for accommodations , and Alaska Tour & Travel can help arrange transportation via train or rental car .

Arctic Circle Air Adventure

Spend two hours flightseeing and three hours on the ground exploring the extreme environment above the Arctic Circle on this guided tour out of Fairbanks. Learn More >

Arctic Circle Aurora Fly / Drive Adventure

Fly far above the Arctic Circle and travel back via van through the polar night for a chance to see Alaska's mesmerizing northern lights. Learn More >

Arctic Circle Drive Adventure

Travel deep within Alaska's vast interior and into the Arctic Circle on this full-day guided ground tour out of Fairbanks. Learn More >

Arctic Circle Midnight Sun Fly / Drive Adventure

Fly into the Arctic Circle and then return to civilization on the infamous "Haul Road" on this guided day trip out of Fairbanks. Learn More >

Arctic Ocean Adventure Northbound

Experience the vast landscapes and utter remoteness of Alaska's Arctic wilderness on this three-day, two-night adventure north along the Dalton Highway. Learn More >

Arctic Ocean Adventure Southbound

Travel to the top of the world, or close to it, on this three-day, two-night flying and driving excursion from Fairbanks to Deadhorse and back. Learn More >

Homestead Aurora Adventure

Head into the wintery wilds 60 miles north of Fairbanks for a guided aurora watching tour based at the cozy Arctic Circle Trading Post. Learn More >

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Northwest Territories Travel , Yukon Travel

Driving to the arctic circle via the inuvik to tuktoyaktuk highway (and dempster highway).

Driving to the Arctic Circle is one of Canada’s great adventures (and road trips)! Carol Patterson walks us through what you need to do to prepare for the trip, and where to stop along the way.

My hands grasped the steering wheel so tightly my knuckles turned white. The road was a twisting, gnarly swirl of mud. I hoped my early years of driving through Saskatchewan blizzards would stand me in good stead, and I would finish my trip on Canada’s first highway to the Arctic Ocean without needing a tow truck. 

I first drove the Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk Highway (ITH) months after it opened in November 2017, an engineering marvel that saw a modern road perched atop permafrost. The 138-kilometer highway took four years to build, used 1,000 person years of employment, and cost approximately $300 million, one of the most expensive roads in the country. 

Many people like to combine the trip along the ITH with a warm-up on the Dempster Highway, a 740-kilometre gravel road that starts a few kilometres east of Dawson City . Driving north from Dawson City to Tuktoyatkuk isn’t for the faint of hearts or small vehicles, but if you’re willing to take on an epic road trip, this is a journey like no other.

A Little Road History

Building a road to the Arctic Ocean was a government priority as far back as the 1960s. Tuktoyaktuk (aka Tuk), an Inuvialuit community of approximately 965 people, could only be reached by air, sea, or in winter, by ice road. Having a year-round road would reduce the cost of living for residents, and increase tourism.  

The route was surveyed in 1974, then several decades passed as land claim agreements were signed, environmental assessment studies conducted, and a cost-benefit analysis was done. In 2013 construction started. 

The highway is routed across permafrost – a layer under the ground that is permanently frozen. If it stays frozen, structures built on permafrost are stable, but if the permafrost melts, structures shift or in extreme cases, are absorbed into the ground. 

The Dempster Highway built decades earlier blasted through permafrost, the newer ITH was placed on the land. To avoid heating the permafrost and destabilizing the road base, engineers placed a geotextile fabric between the ground and a bed of gravel two metres thick. 

Driving the Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk Highway (ITH)

As I slid across a muddy corner of the ITH, several motorcyclists, up to their ankles in mud, pushed their bikes out of the way. I would hear later that a flatbed truck had been sent from Inuvik to rescue the stuck equipment. This is a road that’s best to drive on sunny days. 

I had rented a large SUV and I needed the power and weight to get through the muddiest spots. If you’re making the drive, plan to rent or bring a large SUV or truck. The flat tundra was a visual potpourri of golds and greens but there were no pullouts or rest areas to stop. A quick pause in the middle of the road for photos was the only break I got. 

It takes about three hours to drive the road in good conditions but you need to bring water, food, and a satellite phone in case of emergencies. A good spare tire is also recommended. 

As I approached Tuk, I saw a large rounded hill in the distance. It was a pingo – an ice-cored hill unique to the north. This one is the centerpiece of Pingo Canadian Landmark, a 16 km² Parks Canada site with eight of the 1,350 pingos in the region. 

The End of the Road

I’d been to Tuk in 1982 as an accountant when oil and gas development was booming. Now, oil and gas activity are much reduced, and as I drove into Tuk, the town seemed balanced between ancient traditions and modern ways.

The work camp I’d once stayed in was boarded up. Snowmobiles sat next to children’s plastic toys in the side yards of houses nestled along the Beaufort Sea; many people here hunt and fish to supplement processed food from the “south”. With a bad weather forecast, I popped into the town office for a certificate saying I’d completed the drive , and stopped at the Northern Store for snacks for the drive back. 

Changing Fortunes

When the road opened, people had high hopes for tourism. Five years on, this potential is bearing fruit. According to a representative with Northwest Territories Tourism, three new bed and breakfasts have opened, and the campground hosted almost 29,000 campers in 2022.

Local businesses are noticing an increase in visitors and with funding assistance to weather the pandemic, tourism operators are ready to welcome adventurers wishing to complete the ultimate road trip and reach the Arctic Ocean.   

Adding the Dempster Highway to Your Trip

If you’re headed this far north, it makes sense extend your trip, and long before the ITH opened, the Dempster Highway held mythical status among road trippers.

Starting just east of Dawson City, the rugged drive passes through the two mountain ranges (Ogilvie and Richardson), the continental divide (three times), the Arctic Circle, and across the Mackenzie and Peel Rivers (by ferry in summer) before reaching Inuvik and the start of the ITH. 

Annie-Claude Dupois, Acting Global Marketing Manager for Travel Yukon, confirms that travelers have been adding both roadways to their vacation plans.

“There’s been an increase (in visitation) at Tombstone Territorial Park and Inuvik because they want to make it all the way to the Arctic Circle. It (the route from Dawson City to Tuktoyaktuk) got very popular,” Dupois says.   

What to Know About Driving the Dempster Highway

The Dempster Highway is well-maintained and in good weather can be driven in two days one-way , although you should add time if you like to explore or you’re travelling in shoulder seasons. Bad weather has stranded people on the highway for hours or even days so check forecasts before heading out and carry extra supplies and equipment.

Also be aware the highway is closed for several weeks in late fall and early spring when the rivers are freezing and thawing and ferries don’t run. 

Make overnight reservations as early as possible at the 32-room Eagle Plains Hotel . It’s located at the mid-way point and has the only gas station until you reach Fort McPherson or Inuvik. 

Other popular stops along the Dempster include Tombstone Territorial Park, the Arctic Circle marker, the Teetl’it Gwich’in community at Fort McPherson and its busy Tent and Canvas Shop, and Inuvik’s Western Arctic Visitor Centre.

If you have proof that you dipped your toes in to the Arctic Ocean (take a photo when you reach the end of the ITH) you can get a certificate from the staff at the visitor centre. They can also give you an Arctic Crossing Certificate.   

Whether you end up tackling the ITH, the Dempster Highway, or both, you’re in for one of the most memorable road trips of your life.

Carol Patterson is a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and an award-winning journalist seeking out North America’s best wildlife viewing experiences. You’ll often find her and her camera following the seasons and the birds that come with them. She’s been a pilot, an accountant, a university professor, and an avian tourism consultant, but says her best gig is writing stories for curious travelers.

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Driving to the Arctic Circle – My 12 Month Trek

• September 19, 2023 September 28, 2023

Leaving Boston on Nov 15, 2022 and arriving back in Boston Nov 15 2023. Leaving Key West, FL on May 15, 2023 and arriving in the Arctic Circle on Aug 8, 2023

After completing my previous road trips, which had me on and off the road for about 3 to 4 months at a time over the past two years, I found myself contemplating my next adventure. Alaska, a place I had never explored, beckoned to me as an exciting destination. During my research, I stumbled upon a fascinating possibility: the opportunity to embark on a road journey to the Arctic Circle. The moment this idea took shape, I knew deep inside that this was the adventure I had been searching for. It was a decision made with unwavering excitement: ‘THAT’s what I want to do!’

A part of this journey will take me from one corner of the country to the other. The plan is to drive from Key West, FL to the Arctic Circle in Alaska.

I’ll be periodically adding posts to this thread from the journey.

Driving the Dempster Highway to the Arctic Circle, Canada

Simply put, the Dempster Highway is one of the best road trips in the world. It’s a one way trip to the Arctic, through the middle of tundra, jagged mountains and limitless wilderness.  

The wilderness here is rich, barren, lush and desolate all at the same time. This is the Arctic that you never imagined.

The Dempster is Canada’s only highway crossing the Arctic Circle. The 735km-long Dempster Highway was built in 1979 and roughly follows the traditional First Nation transportation route between the Yukon and Peel river systems.

We spent an incredible three weeks on and around the Dempster Highway – read on for tales from the road plus a practical guide to completing this epic trip yourself.

Freedom of the road: the Dempster Highway

Driving the Dempster Highway is a one-of-a-kind experience. The start of the highway is about an hour from Dawson City, itself an interesting gold rush outpost.

From here, the road travels through Tombstone Territorial Park and then there is nothing for the next 300km.

Well, nothing in terms of human life aside from a random RV or car maybe every couple of hours.

There is however so much else; the unexpectedly vibrant flowers, stunted trees, a huge variety of animals from grizzlies and porcupines to black foxes and moose.

The Dempster Highway has a reputation for being rough and a real-tire eater, but we were actually pleasantly surprised (even with it claiming one of our own all-terrain tires).

There are affiliate links in this post. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Under the Midnight Sun of the north

About an hour before we reached the Arctic Circle, our GPS started to go a little crazy. Apparently sunrise would now be at 6 pm and sunset at 10 am.

Arriving at the official line of latitude (405km in) a little while later, it just gave up. We would later toast our drinks at midnight to celebrate my 25th birthday, also the summer solstice. For the next 50 or so days there would be 24 hours of daylight.

24 hours of daylight was exciting, novel and amazing all at once but it was hard to sleep.

The town of Inuvik is found at the ‘old’ end of the Dempster Highway (the all-season road was extended to the town of Tuktoyaktuk in 2018), and while we enjoyed our time there, it was also 33 degrees Celsius for the entirety of our stay, 24 hours a day. It was a bit intense.

For other purposes, 24-hour daylight is awesome. We fished, drove and hiked late at ‘night,’ getting back on the road at whatever time we pleased.

The fishing on the Dempster, by the way, is productive. For once, we actually caught plenty of fish.

A journey of discovery on the Dempster Highway

One of the most unexpected parts of the trip was how much we learned about local First Nation culture. The Dempster Highway travels through the traditional home of the Han, Gwich’in and Inuvialuit people.

These lands have fed and sheltered generations of First Nation people. Hunting, fishing and trapping still remain an integral part of the life of many people living in the area.

We met such generous and kind folks over the two weeks we travelled the Dempster and gained a much better appreciation and respect for the area and its people.

Learning how to make Labrador tea, bannock and jam, JR also made sure to eat plenty of the traditionally smoked whitefish.

Another surprising part of the trip was finding fossilised coral next to Engineer Creek!

Some unwelcome companions

Being so far north not only offered us the experience of 24-hour daylight but also that of hoards of mosquitoes and black flies trying to drink our blood. And by hoards, I mean millions and millions of them.

Being outside of our vehicle was a huge challenge at times.

Even being inside the vehicle could be difficult – we loved our Astro Van , but a huge number of mosquitoes found their way in through the old vents and tormented us in our sleep, despite using a net. I still have flashbacks of the buzzing.

Needless to say, bringing bug repellent is a necessity. I also wouldn’t recommend camping in valleys – the Rock River campground (445km) was something of a breeding ground. The windy days were by far our favourite days on the Dempster.

Must see stops when driving the Dempster Highway

For such an isolated and supposedly desolate road, there is a surprising amount to see and experience on the Dempster Highway. Here are our highlights:

• Tombstone Territorial Park – visit the Interpretive Centre for information on trails and camping. Samples of local food and drink (Bannock, Labrador tea) are occasionally offered. We did two overnight hikes in Tombstone – the first to Rake Mountain (off-trail) and then Grizzly Lake (on-trail).
• Two Moose Lake – Stop here at the pullout for bird and moose watching.
• Blackstone River – Great fishing! We caught many grayling in the river along with some Dolly Varden too
• Chapman Lake – Worth a stop for the wonderful views of mountains behind the lake
• Engineer Creek –  Have a go at finding some fossilised coral here, near the bridge
• Eagle Plains – The perfect place for a meal, shower and gas. Open year round
• Arctic Circle Crossing – Gotta get that iconic photo!
• Around 450km mark – Great hiking, photo and camping opportunities

• Nitainlaii Territorial Park Interpretive Centre – Learn about the Gwich’in way of life at this locally run centre
• Fort McPherson – Dene Indian settlement with ‘Lost Patrol’ gravesite outside Anglican Church. Gas station
• Tithequehchii Vitail Lookout – Short walk to the viewing platform overlooking Campbell Lake
• Ehjuu Njik Wayside Park (Cabin Creek) – Good fishing opportunities for grayling
• Jak Territorial Park – Lookout tower with views of Mackenzie River Delta and mountains
• Inuvik – Be sure to check out the ‘igloo’ church and community greenhouses (in an old ice rink!)

Looking to book a stay in Inuvik?

Arctic Chalet – Highly rated on Booking.com

Nova Inn Inuvik – Great location

The best time to drive the Dempster Highway to the Arctic Circle and Beyond

The truth of it is that the best time of year to drive on the Dempster Highway depends on what you want to see.

Our trip was focused around the summer solstice because 1) it was my birthday on 21st June (longest birthday EVER!) and 2) it fitted well in with the rest of our summer plans.

Travelling on the Dempster in mid-June, however, meant that the blackflies and mosquitoes were in full force, which is less of a problem later on in the season.

The early season timeframe also limited the hiking opportunities in Tombstone Territorial Park – the Grizzly Lake trail , for example, did not open until early July that year.

Another popular reason to visit later in the summer is the fiery fall colours that start appearing around August.

Practicalities for a Dempster Highway road trip

The Dempster Highway is a long road and rough in certain areas. While it is reasonably well maintained, your vehicle should be in decent enough shape to drive a couple thousand kilometres in the dirt.

• A good spare tire is essential as is a puncture repair kit, air compressor and jack. We lost a tire just before reaching the Arctic Circle and purchased a new one in Inuvik for the same price as it would have been in Vancouver!
• If you drive an older vehicle (like we did), I’d also suggest bringing spare oil
• Some kind of strong tape is also really helpful for covering the vehicle seals between doors to keep the dirt out

• While we did buy a 25L gas can for the journey, we didn’t actually need it. Gas is very expensive in Inuvik ($1.89/l at the time) but you can also fill up in Eagle Plains (369km) and Fort McPherson (551km). I think bringing gas may come into play if you plan to drive the Dempster in a short amount of time (two to three days), and therefore the gas stations in Eagle Plains and Fort McPherson may be closed
• Driving-wise, my main tip is that if the road is wet DRIVE SLOWLY. The road becomes exceptionally slippery when wet and being that most of the road is elevated due to the permafrost underneath if you slip off, you’re going into a big ditch. My recommendation is to get off the road when it is raining heavily. This is another reason not to do this trip in just a few days – I would suggest four days as a3 minimum
• Pick up any needed supplies in Whitehorse or Dawson City before heading to the Dempster Highway. Dawson City is only a 30-minute drive from the start of the Dempster, so well worth the round trip if you have forgotten something important
• Expect to receive no phone signal at all on the majority of the Dempster Highway

Take your time and drive safe. Get on Dempster-time and just enjoy one of the best road trips in the world! Up to date road conditions can be found on 511Yukon. 

Dempster Highway camping advice

There are lots of great wild camping spots along the Dempster Highway, alongside a handful of maintained rustic campgrounds (pit toilets, picnic benches etc.)

The rustic campgrounds on the Dempster Highway have the bonus of covered shelters with screens on the windows, which are very useful for avoiding rain and bugs.

The disadvantage is that these campgrounds are all located next to water sources with very little wind. Consequently, they can be very buggy.

If you need to get clean, there are showers at the halfway point at Eagle Plains. We did not stay at this Dempster Highway campground (next to the hotel) but asked if we could use the showers and were told to just go ahead.

Dempster Highway road trip essentials

Here are a few must-have items for any summer Dempster Highway road trip, tried and tested by us!

• The Milepost Travel Planner – a mile-by-mile account of the Dempster Highway, plus every other major highway in Alaska and Yukon
• Mosquito Head Net – Trust me, you’ll thank me for this one on those windless days in early summer…
• Portable Tire Air Compressor – A lifesaver when you find that your spare tire is slightly deflated
• Tire Repair Kit – Very helpful for small punctures while driving the Dempster Highway
• Bug Repellent Spray – Don’t even question it
• Bear Spray – Just in case! Note, this is not a replacement for practising basic bear avoidance techniques
• Fishing kit (and fishing license) – Because the fishing really is THAT good on the Dempster

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One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Saturday 4th of July 2020

I have 2 weeks for this trip is that enough time from Chilliwack to the artic circle?

Monday 6th of July 2020

It just about enough time to drive the 6,500km journey there and back but that's a lot of driving in such a relatively short amount of time! Personally, I like to stop at plenty of places on road trips so that kind of trip wouldn't appeal to me. But it is physically possible as long as the weather is fine and your vehicle makes the journey.

Hi there, Mike here im planning a trip to the artic circle in late july early August i have a 2017 ram 1500 and a 24 foot rv any suggestions for my trip im leaving Chilliwack Bc

Steve Taylor

Tuesday 4th of December 2018

I really enjoyed your blog. I'm hoping to do this drive in June 2019 with myself and my dog (maybe another dog by then) . I have an old 2008 Subaru Forester so I want to get something newer by then (although the Sub has never let me down)

The bugs sound like the biggest challenge.....and tires!

Sounds like it will be an awesome trip! The bugs are definitely the biggest challenge by far on the Dempster, especially in June. Good luck!

Saturday 11th of August 2018

45 years ago (1973) my husband and I relocated from Victoria to Ottawa. We took a little detour up to Anchorage (via ferry) and then drove the Alaska Hgh via Road at the Top of the World to Dawson. Stopped at the entrance to the Dempster - had barely started and always said we'd be back. Your article is great - think it'll be now before we're toooooo old (mid 70's now). Our son drove it six years ago and keeps at us. Thanks for the article, your encouragement and great advice. Fingers crossed for this year.

Sounds like a great plan Carol! I hope you two make it, driving the Dempster is just a wonderful experience. Do let me know how it goes.

Monday 16th of July 2018

Really good info Gemma. My wife and I set off on the 1st Sept travelling up from Vancouver Island onto Bella Coola, Stewart, Telegraph Creek and then onto Dawson - then to iqaluit and finally Tuc (the new road is now open I believe). Again may thanks for your post -very helpful

Tuesday 17th of July 2018

Sounds like a fab adventure! Make sure you do go to Inuvik rather than Iqaluit though, as they are quite different places in very different locations ;)

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Best of Alaska Self Drive Road Trip with Arctic Circle

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INTRODUCTION

Alaska's classic self drive route features most of the highlights and scenic wonders of the central Alaska region - Kenai Fjords, Denali and Wrangell / St.

Elias national parks., take your choice of tours in both seward and denali, enjoy a sternwheeler riverboat cruise and flight to the arctic circle, explore fairbanks and visit mccarthy and the kennicott mine. , wrapping up the trip, you'll hike to exit glacier and join a spectacular kenai fjords glacier cruise. .

Itinerary at a Glance

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 Anchorage to Seward | 204 km/127 mi This morning travel along the Seward Highway towards scenic Turnagain Arm, a body of water featuring the world’s second highest tides at over 30 feet. Keep an eye out for Beluga whales chasing salmon in the bay or Dall sheep along the highway. A great stop for lunch is Alyeska Resort in Girdwood where you can take the tram up Mt. Alyeska (optional). Other stops we recommend include Portage Glacier and its visitor centre, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center which provides care and rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wildlife. Here you can safely get close, observe, and photograph some of Alaska’s largest land animals including moose, bison, elk, deer, caribou, bears, muskox and in Seward Exit Glacier and the SeaLife Centre.

Day 2 Seward | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 5 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of these excursions Option 1. Tonsina Point Resurrection Bay Kayaking Adventure Resurrection Bay is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and home to several Alaska state parks that offer abundant opportunities to hike, sea kayak and explore! Option 2. Bear Lake Kayak | Canoe Trip Kayak or canoe on this scenic local lake with fun-loving guides. Bear Lake is located just outside Seward, Alaska and normally offers flat calm waters, and a home for Sockeye salmon. On the way there is a stop to visit the salmon weir and learn about their life cycle. Eagles, loons, and bears are often seen while on this adventure Option 3. Wilderness Dog Sled ride Tour Visit the Seavey Family Homestead in Seward, and tour the beautiful tether free summer camp for Iditarod athletes! Meet the dogs, feel their excitement as teams are hitched to comfortable summer sleds, then mush for two miles through the scenic rainforest. Option 4. Exit Glacier Hike This moderate hiking adventure is great for viewing the jewel of the Resurrection River Valley - Exit Glacier. This massive wall of blue ice descends the mountainside from the Harding Ice Field, down to the Resurrection River. Option 5. Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise Treat yourself to an abundance of wildlife viewing with this 31/2 hour Kenai Fjords cruise in Resurrection Bay. Travel 55 miles (round-trip) along a rugged coastline and snap plenty of memorable photos as you sail past Bear Glacier. Sail close to sea lion colonies and seabird rookeries, and keep your eyes peeled for whales, sea otters, Dall’s porpoises, eagles and mountain goats.

Day 3 Seward to Talkeetna | 386 km/240 mi Head back towards Anchorage today taking in the sights of the Seward Highway as you go. Pass through Anchorage and drive the Glenn Highway north to Wasilla and onto Talkeetna. Stops can include a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Centre in Anchorage and the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry in Wasilla. Talkeetna serves as a base camp for Denali climbers; the community of under 1000 residents is located at the confluence of the Talkeetna and Susitna Rivers. A turn-of-the-20th-century gold-mining centre, the town has retained much of its early Alaskan flavour.

Day 4 Talkeetna to Denali National Park Entrance | 257 km/153 mi This morning, embark on a Wilderness Adventure Jet Boat tour. Stand in the splendor of Denali and the great Alaska Range from a spectacular vantage point on the Susitna River! The folklore, artifacts and a panoramic view of Denali in the Alaska Range combine to make this an unforgettable and unique Alaskan river adventure. After your jet boat tour, drive the Parks Highway north to Denali National Park, passing by incredible forest and mountain landscapes.

Day 5 Denali | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 4 Excursions Option 1. Denali Highway Jeep Excursion | Self-Drive Guided 4x4 Excursion Ranked #2 in Drives of a Lifetime by National Geographic Traveler magazine, experience the natural wonders of Alaska’s Denali Highway — this time by Jeep! This 4-hour guided excursion travels along a 135 mi (217 km) gravel road & takes you off the beaten path in a 4 x 4 to enjoy scenic views of Denali, the Alaska Range, glaciers and wildlife. Option 2. Tundra Wilderness Tour | Coach Tour This half day tour offers incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road and opportunities to view the park’s wildlife inhabitants. Picturesque highlights include the craggy cliffside of Cathedral Mountain, wildlife rich Sable Pass and braided wash of the East Fork River in Denali National Park. Option 3. Upgrade Option: Denali Summit Flightseeing | Small Aircraft Get a closer look at Alaska’s majestic Denali from the comfortable window seat of a small aircraft. Slip on your provided headset to hear commentary from your guide as you fly over the snow-covered peaks, jagged ridgelines, and glacier carved valleys of Denali National Park, and get within half a mile of the mountain peak. Option 4. Upgrade Option : Denali Glacier Landing | Helicopter Be immersed in the vastness of the Denali National Preserve. On your way to the massive Yanert Glacier, your pilot will serve as your guide through this unique glacially-carved environment. Soar over the rolling tundra, keeping an eye out for local residents – caribou, moose, bear, and Dall sheep. Snow capped peaks and glaciers abound on this journey before you set down on a river of ice.

Day 6 Denali National Park to Fairbanks | 198 km/123 mi | Sternwheeler Riverboat Cruise Continue on the George Parks Highway north to Fairbanks. Accompanied by incredible forest and mountain landscapes, you drive through the communities of Healy, Nenana and Ester - an old mining camp. In the afternoon, climb aboard the Riverboat Discovery III for an unforgettable 3-hour cruise into the Alaskan Interior, traveling the Chena and Tanana Rivers on the only authentic sternwheeler riverboat operating in Alaska. This narrated tour provides background on the area’s natural history and the Athabascan Indian culture.

Day 7 Fairbanks | Arctic Circle Air Adventure Tour An Alaska travel experience would not be complete without an opportunity to experience firsthand the vast wilderness expanses and Alaska’s Arctic.Fly over the expansive Yukon River Valley, home of traditional peoples that sustain their lifestyle and culture as they have for thousands of years. Thrill at the excitement of crossing the Arctic Circle. Experience the rugged and magnificent Brooks Mountain Range as the flight route passes just south of the Gates of the Arctic National Park. Participate in a ceremonious Arctic Circle landing at a wilderness community on the Middle Fork Koyukuk River and receive an official Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate. Then bask in the long daylight hours of the Midnight Sun on the return flight to Fairbanks.

Day 8 Fairbanks to Chitina | 498 km/310 mi | Chitina to McCarthy | Flight Depart early this morning for an approximate 6-hour drive through broad, meandering river valleys characteristic of the north side of the Alaska Range. Reaching Copper River, you’ll find the scenery changes dramatically as Mt. Drum, Mt. Wrangell and Mt. Blackburn rise to stunning heights. A quick visit to Copper Centre is well worth the few extra miles off the main Richardson Highway – located at the confluence of the Klutina and Copper Rivers it offers classic Alaskan character and some interesting sites. Continue south to the town of Chitina, the main entry point by flight into McCarthy-Kennicott and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.

Day 9 McCarthy | Kennicott | Root Glacier Hike Spend the morning exploring the dynamic features of nearby Root Glacier on a guided trail and ice hike. The afternoon is yours to visit the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark and the funky-rustic nearby enclave of McCarthy.

Day 10 McCarthy to Chitina | Flight | Chitina to Valdez | 194 km/120 mi Today fly back to Chitina by bush plane while enjoying great views of the Wrangell Mountains. From Chitina continue south where you will begin to enter the Chugach Mountains that ring the coast of Alaska from Prince William Sound. At Thompson Pass you may wish to stop at one of the pullouts for the scenery and views of Worthington Glacier before you begin the descent into Valdez.

Day 11 Valdez | Prince William Sound Columbia Glacier Cruise with lunch Discover the magic of Alaska on this 7-hour Columbia Glacier cruise from Valdez. A local captain and crew will guide you through the Trans Alaska Pipeline Terminal and Columbia Bay before arriving at Columbia Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in South Central Alaska. Look out for wildlife along the way; if you’re lucky you could spot porpoises, puffins, sea lions and sea otters among other creatures. (Lunch included)

Day 12 Valdez to Sheep Mountain Lodge | 309 km/192 mi Today you will drive back north on the Richardson Highway with great views of the Wrangell Mountains as you return to Glennallen (weather permitting).Here you follow the Glenn Highway towards Palmer/Anchorage until you reach Sheep Mountain Lodge.

Day 13 Sheep Mountain Lodge to Anchorage | 172 km/107 mi Drive the Glenn Highway south to Anchorage. Highlights include the Independence Mine in beautiful Hatcher Pass and the many communities in the Mat-Su Valley. This valley contains many farms with the remarkable growing season in Alaska and offers beautiful views of the Chugach Range. Upon arrival in Anchorage your incredible Alaska self drive adventure comes to an end.

Package Includes:

• Accommodation including taxes for 12 nights
• Tonsina Point Resurrection Bay Kayaking Adventure
• Bear Lake Kayak | Canoe Trip
• Wilderness Dog Sled ride Tour
• Exit Glacier Hike
• Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise
• Admission to Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
• Alyeska Scenic Tram Ride
• Talkeetna Wilderness Adventure Jet Boat Tour
• Denali Highway Jeep Excursion
• Tundra Wilderness Tour
• Upgrade Option: Denali Summit Flightseeing by Plane
• Upgrade Option: Denali Glacier Landing by Helicopter
• Sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery Cruise
• Arctic Circle Air Adventure Tour
• Scenic Return Flight Chitina - McCarthy
• Kennecott Mill Town Tour
• McCarthy | Kennicott Morning Glacier Hike
• Prince William Sound Columbia Glacier Cruise with lunch
• Meals as per Itinerary

Hotel Information | Moderate Grade

• Seward - Seward Windsong Lodge | Standard Room
• Talkeetna - Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge | Main Lodge Room
• Denali Park Entrance - Denali Cabins | Standard Cabin
• Fairbanks - Rivers Edge Resort | Garden Cottage
• McCarthy - Ma Johnson Hotel | Standard Room
• Valdez - Best Western Valdez Harbor Inn | Standard Room
• Sheep Mountain - Sheep Mountain Lodge | Premier Cabin

Hotel Information | Superior Grade

• Seward - Seward Windsong Lodge | Standard Room with Deck
• Talkeetna - Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge | Mountainside Lodge Room
• Denali Park Entrance - Grande Denali Lodge | Standard Room
• Fairbanks - Rivers Edge Resort | River Cottage

Not included:

• Activities other than specified
• Portage fees
• Road and tunnel tolls

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Arrange a call with an Alaska Travel Designer and bring your vacation to Alaska one step closer!

DATES & PRICING

Departs from Anchorage: Daily (Tour Code: SDA26)

STAY AT THESE HOTELS ON THIS ALASKA VACATION

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

Days / Nights

Grande Denali Lodge

Rivers Edge Resort Fairbanks Alaska

Kennicott Glacier Lodge McCarthy Alaska

Sheep Mountain Lodge

Seward Windsong Lodge

Lands End Resort Homer Alaska

Susitna River Lodge Talkeetna

Denali Cabins

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Alaska by Design created a perfect itinerary for my clients. They returned with great memories and were extremely pleased with all aspects of their trip.

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They were professional and pleasant to work with. When the fires starts in various areas that they would be touring Alaska By Design was great in helping to make adjustments to the clients reservations. The clients were thrilled with there trip.

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Nothing was too much trouble for Jennifer or Karen when we were planning our holiday. They were able to tailor our trip to what we wanted. We have recommended Alaska by Design to our friends.

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Excellent services!Our clients were extremely satisfied with the itinerary, hotels and tours you have offered.We will contact you again for our next clients.Thanks again for all!

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I enjoyed working with Alaska by Design, I was introduced to them by Debra Roberts and Karen did a great job for me with a couple of my reservations

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Matador Original Series

A Guide to Extreme Adventure in the Alaska Arctic Circle, From Someone Who Did It

F rom the grizzly bear-laden rivers of Katmai to the pristine wilderness of Denali National Park , Alaska is loaded with spectacular destinations for outdoor adventurers and wildlife lovers. But it’s tough to beat the untouched natural beauty of the Alaska Arctic Circle.

Photo: Jared Ranahan

Though some travelers may be put off by the lengthy travel time and lack of luxury accommodations in towns in the Alaska Arctic Circle, those who venture north can expect a world unlike anywhere else in the US. The part of Alaska above the 66th parallel is full of staggeringly beautiful landscapes, with sweeping mountain ranges and vast expanses of tundra travelers are free to explore.

The process of planning a trip to the Arctic Circle in Alaska can be a little arduous, but once you’ve sorted out the flights, accommodations, and shuttle services and actually arrived in Alaska’s far north, you’ll realize the extra effort was worth it to access what many people call “The Last Frontier.”

What is the Arctic Circle?

As you may already know, there’s no physical demarcation of the Arctic Circle. Humans set the artificial boundary in accordance with the earth’s summer and winter solstices. In areas on the Arctic parallel, the sun shines for 24 straight hours on the first day of summer, but doesn’t rise above the horizon on the first day of winter.

On the exact boundaries of the circle, those are the only two days with such extreme light conditions. But in more northern locations, the annual periods of midnight sun and polar night are even lengthier.

Where is the Arctic Circle?

Photo: Google Earth/Open Source

The Arctic Circle starts at roughly the 66th parallel. It’s the northernmost of the earth’s five major circles of latitude. From north to south, the others are the Tropic of Cancer, the Equator, the Tropic of Capricorn, and the Antarctic Circle.

Roughly four million people live on or above the Arctic Circle in major cities like Murmansk, Russia (the largest city north of the Arctic Circle), and Longyearbyen , Norway (the world’s northernmost settlement of 1,000 people or more).

None of the settlements in the Alaska Arctic Circle crack the top twenty in terms of population. But cities like Utqiaġvik and Kotzebue are still popular destinations for adventurous travelers.

When to Visit

Photo: R. Vickers /Shutterstock

There’s no wrong season to visit the Alaska Arctic Circle, but visitors can expect vastly different experiences depending on the time of year. The warmer months bring some much-needed light and warmth to the Alaskan landscape, while travelers can encounter one spectacular celestial phenomenon only in the dimmest days of winter — the aurora borealis.

Book your visit between early May and late July if you’re hoping to spot iconic Alaskan wildlife like caribou, moose, and grizzly bears. The native flora and fauna of the Arctic are on full display around this time, with ample opportunity to spot cubs and calves enjoying their first summer.

Things to do: wildlife viewing

Photo: Martin Capek /Shutterstock

One of the most popular activities in the state is witnessing one of the state’s most spectacular natural events: the annual caribou migration. Most travelers go with guides on multi-day trips; Arctic Wild is probably the most well-known in the area. The migration only happens for two or three weeks between late June and early July, but participants will likely see tens of thousands of caribou as they traverse the pristine northern reaches of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Polar bears, on the other hand, spend the bulk of their lives prowling the Arctic sea ice for seals and tend to stay on the mainland from roughly September to November when the ice is thin. To get a close look at these fascinating creatures, book a polar bear tour near the town of Kaktovik. It’s a tiny community on the northern coast of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Planet Earth Adventures offers high-end tours that sell out usually a year or more in advance and include opportunities to spot bears from land and water. Akook Arctic Adventures runs four-hour tours ideal for travelers already in Kaktovik, and Kaktovik Tours runs two- and four-day trips that start and end from your hotel in town.

Things to do: see the aurora borealis

If you want to catch a glimpse of the iconic aurora borealis, a winter visit is certainly in order. This colorful lights show is technically present in the Arctic throughout the year, but it’s only visible well after sunset. And since there’s no guarantee it will appear on any given night, you’ll want to dedicate several nights to trying to see it.

Some Arctic accommodations like Coldfoot Camp offer late-night aurora borealis excursions, and Borealis Basecamp near Fairbanks has massive metallic igloos with plexiglass ceilings, allowing guests to soak in spectacular views from the comfort of a warm bed. While it’s not quite in the Alaska Arctic Circle, anybody with the Northern Lights on their bucket list should try to spend a night at one of those two lodges to start or end their trip.

Getting around the Alaska Arctic Circle

Photo: Galyna Andrushko /Shutterstock

No matter how you choose to explore Alaska, there’s a significant chance that your journey will begin in either Anchorage or Fairbanks. The two are the primary gateway cities to northern Alaska, and Alaska Airlines offers daily nonstop flights to both from Seattle. It’s mostly a matter of personal preference. Anchorage is by far the largest city in the state, but Fairbanks –360 miles northeast of Fairbanks – offers a bit more in the way of access to remote reaches of interior Alaska.

Once you’ve settled on your entry point, one essential question looms: do you need to rent a car? While it’s certainly an option, you don’t need to.

Most destinations in Alaska’s Arctic Circle can only be reached by plane. And for the few towns with road access, companies like the Dalton Highway Express can take travelers from Fairbanks to the highway’s northern terminus (and it makes a few stops at essential tourist destinations along the way).

Remember that the Alaskan frontier can be an inhospitable place, even in the middle of summer. If an emergency strikes, it’s best to be in the company of professionals rather than stuck alone in a car without cell service.

Navigating Alaska’s iconic Arctic Highway

If you have your heart set on exploring the Alaskan Arctic by car, you’ll be spending a lot of personal time with the Dalton Highway , also known as Alaska Route 11. The 414-mile span was built in 1974to accommodate the Trans-Alaska Pipeline.

Despite the name, this “highway” is a far cry from a typical US road. Accommodations are few and far between and the northern reaches are little more than a bumpy gravel path. It’s a massive undertaking to travel the entire length of the Dalton Highway, so many visitors prefer to venture roughly one-third of the way up to Coldfoot, a tiny community home to the aforementioned Coldfoot Camp.

Whether you’re driving yourself or making the journey by shuttle, the trip from Fairbanks to Coldfoot Camp is sure to be a lengthy one. More than 250 miles stand in between the destinations. But fortunately, there are a couple of cool attractions along the way to break up the monotony, including the Yukon River, Finger Mountain, and the iconic Arctic Circle Sign.

After roughly eight hours on the road, you’ll reach one of the few hospitable destinations on the Dalton Highway: Coldfoot Camp.

Where to stay

Accommodations around Alaska’s Arctic Circle along the Dalton highway are pretty bare-bones, and Coldfoot Camp is one of the only ones along the highway. It’s not five-star lodging, but the hotel’s incredible excursions like arctic safaris, Gates of the Arctic National Park flightseeing tours, and dog sledding expeditions, to name a few, certainly make it worth a stay.

After exploring all that Coldfoot offers, it’s possible to go north, though not particularly advisable. It’s another 242 miles up to Prudhoe Bay — the northernmost settlement along the Dalton Highway — and there’s not a single store or gas station along the way. The town itself is home to some basic accommodations like Aurora Hotel and Brooks Camp , but aside from the occasional caribou herd, there’s not a lot going on in Prudhoe Bay. If you’re compelled to visit the town anyway, it may be best to charter a bush plane for your entire journey rather than take a shuttle, since the return trip to Fairbanks can take more than twelve hours.

Exploring the arctic by plane

While the Dalton Highway offers a fascinating array of Arctic attractions to see, it’s far from the only area worth visiting in the region – though travel by car is no longer an option once you’ve strayed from Route 11. To reach some of the most remote settlements that the Alaskan Arctic Circle has to offer, you’ll need to fly.

In terms of commercial flights, Alaska Airlines offers daily trips from both Anchorage and Fairbanks to the coastal cities of Kotzebue and Utqiaġvik. Kotzebue is just a hair north of the Arctic Circle line and is the major population center of Alaska’s Northwest Arctic Borough. Newcomers are welcome to take a stroll around the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center, but for the bulk of visitors, Kotzebue serves as a gateway to the staggeringly large Kobuk Valley National Park, a haven for native Alaskan wildlife like Dall sheep and musk ox.

Local tour company Golden Eagle Outfitters runs flightseeing tours, float trips, and fly-in fishing expeditions, among other excursions.

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Cross the Arctic Circle

The Arctic Circle is located at 66 degrees 33 minutes north latitude, about 200 road miles or 140 air miles from Fairbanks. On the summer solstice (around June 21/22), locations above the Arctic Circle experience the "midnight sun" with 24-hours of continuous daylight. On the winter solstice (around December 21/22), the sun fails to fully rise above the horizon and locations in the Arctic experience 24 hours of twilight or darkness. The farther north one travels from the Arctic Circle, the longer this period of daylight or darkness lasts during the summer and winter seasons, respectively.

There are several options available when it comes to crossing the Arctic Circle in Alaska including by land, air, or a combination of both. Travel with our informative, friendly guides in the personalized comfort of our tour coaches and vans along the famed Dalton Highway. Or fly north from Fairbanks and wonder at the story of the vast and remote land below, crossing the Arctic Circle in the air and landing 60 miles further north in the Brooks Mountain Range community of Coldfoot. Whatever you decide, it is sure to be a memorable adventure and you will receive an official Arctic Circle certificate to commemorate the experience.

Arctic Circle Air Adventure

A One Day Guided Round Trip Journey By Air And Land Across The Arctic Circle

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Arctic Circle Winter Fly Drive - Northbound

A Guided Round Trip Winter Journey By Air and Land Across The Arctic Circle

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Home > Road Trip Itineraries > Alaska > Dalton Highway, Alaska: Rpad trip along the Arctic Circle

Dalton Highway, Alaska: Rpad trip along the Arctic Circle

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Love road travel, but hate traffic? Is your ideal road one that you can’t see the end of, that goes through endless spaces surrounded by nature? Then the Dalton Highway should be your next destination! Mind you, this isn’t about taking the romantic Route 66 , nor is it simply about crossing a state on four wheels.

To travel the Dalton in Alaska requires good preparation, both of yourself and of the car with which you intend to reach the deep north. In this article I will try to summarize the main features of what is one of the most isolated roads in North America .

The Dalton Highway: history and route length

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The Dalton Highway doesn’t pass through any major cities and doesn’t end anywhere, forcing those who travel it to turn around once they reach the end. There are no monuments to photograph and no activities or entertainment to partake in. Calling it ‘Highway’ is a gamble, being a dirt track for much of the way . So the question arises, why would you waste a few days of your life on the Dalton Highway? You’ll find the motivation within yourself if you’re constantly looking for a journey that challenges you, where you can test your skills and get up in the morning to meet the unknown.

We’re talking about a 411-mile road that connects the Alaskan road network (specifically the Elliot Highway) with the Deadhorse industrial site in Prudhoe Bay, just a stone’s throw from the Arctic Ocean. The reason for the existence of this track that plows through the northern wilderness is oil .

In 1968, during the energy crisis in the US, black gold was discovered in Prudhoe Bay, far away and disconnected from any American city. To tap into this manna that would have solved many problems, a pipeline was needed, in particular an 800-mile pipeline that had to be built in a hurry, in one of the areas where Alaska’s climate made everything more complicated.

The road parallel to the pipeline was initially named Haul Road , because it was used to transport the precious booty discovered in the far north. It took its current name in 1981, dedicated to James B. Dalton : an Alaskan Arctic engineering expert involved in the explorations. In the same year, the road was opened to public traffic in its first section, while access was allowed up to Deadhorse only in 1994. This also means that the pipeline will be your main travel companion the whole time, running perpetually parallel to the road.

Today, more and more travelers are challenging themselves by crossing these lands, perhaps taking the opportunity to venture out into nature to walk, hunt or fish. Crossing the Arctic Circle is an achievement in itself, rewarded in summer by the chance to see the midnight sun .

I have already pointed out that the Dalton Highway is one of the most isolated roads in the world: this means that there are not many alternatives for starting out on it. There is only one starting point: Livengood . Not a metropolis with airports, stations and highways, but a village that struggles to even be called such. The 2000 census gave 29 residents, divided into 13 homes. In fact, this handful of houses has only the merit of being exactly where the Dalton Highway branches off from the Elliot Highway (the road connecting Fairbanks to Manley Hot Springs).

So the real question is, how can you get to Livengood? The only option is to already be in possession of a car, which you can rent in at least three different places, depending on how much time you have available.

• Rental in Fairbanks . If your days are numbered, reach Fairbanks by plane or train from Anchorage . From Fairbanks you’ll have to travel 79 miles (consider about 2 hours) on the Elliot Highway to get to Livengood.
• Rent in Anchorage . If your plane lands in Anchorage and you’re not in a hurry, instead of boarding a train to Fairbanks, you can rent your car here. There are 360 miles between the two cities and you have to consider driving over 6 hours on the scenic Parks Highway. In this case, however, the best way to do it is undoubtedly to make an intermediate stop at the Denali National Park , staying at least one night in the vicinity of the park.
• Rent in Canada, in Seattle or Juneau . If you are a real fan of endless road travel, the Great North offers one of the best itineraries you could wish for. You must have plenty of days to spare, but you won’t regret it, and best of all, you’ll have a great option of intermediate stops, both Canadian and Alaskan. Seattle and Vancouver (only 120 miles from each other) are the two best served airports, but you might find good flights to other Canadian destinations as well. From Vancouver you have to travel more than 660 miles to reach Dawson Creek , not the one of the TV series but the town from where the famous Alaska Highway starts, crossing Western Canada and Eastern Alaska and reaching Fairbanks. Other Canadian airports closer to Dawson Creek are Kamloops (560 miles), Calgary (520 miles) or Edmonton (360 miles). From Dawson Creek to Fairbanks you have to allow almost 30 hours for the drive, but you can count on numerous stopover options along the way and split the itinerary into the number of days you prefer. Adding about ten hours, you can take a detour into southeastern Alaska, to Juneau (also consider flying into Juneau and renting a car here instead of in Canada). Finally, to cut the trip in half, there is also an airport along the Alaska Highway route in Whitehorse, just a 10-hour drive from Fairbanks .

Please note : some car rentals prohibit driving on the Dalton Highway, so check the rental conditions! Read also our tips on how to rent a car  to know the conditions and the necessary documentation, and also for some advice on portals where to book.

Winter in the far north of Alaska, where the terrain is composed of permafrost, is not a season in which it is pleasant to take a road trip, especially on a dirt road. Temperatures can drop below -59° and it’s quite normal to be below -4° anyway.

This implies snow and ice everywhere and the situation then becomes much more dangerous than it is in the summer. Even if you are a seasoned traveler, therefore, my advice is to undertake this trip in full summer .

Duration varies . It all depends on how many hours you’re able to drive each day, how many stops you plan to make, and how much you’ll be enthralled by the boundless landscapes, getting out of the vehicle to take pictures or simply look at the horizon for any number of consecutive minutes. And all, if there are no hiccups due to bad weather or road conditions.

These are the approximate travel times from Fairbanks , not including stops:

• Yukon River: 3 hours
• Arctic Circle: 5 hours
• Coldfoot: 6 hours
• Atigun Pass: 8 hours
• Deadhorse: 13-14 hours

My advice is to devote at least 4 days to the round trip, in order not to be in a hurry and to enjoy every detail of the trip.

Be prepared to be self-sufficient in everything and equip your car to be self-sufficient as well. There are only two gas stations between Fairbanks and Deadhorse, a distance of almost 500 miles (here are the coordinates for both: Yukon River Camp and Coldfoot Fuel Pump ). Running out of gas or water, getting a flat tire, and not having the possibility to repair or change it, can be very unpleasant situations. Along the route between Fairbanks and Deadhorse there are no medical services , so it’s a good idea to bring a first aid kit, there are no banks or ATMs so it’s a good idea to bring cash, there are no stores where you can buy food or other goods: so leave with everything you need for the days you will be away.

Consider also that for much of the journey phone and internet will be unusable . One tip? Use the radio! Truckers and workers on the road use radio channel 19. If you get yourself a short-range radio, you’ll be able to communicate with them in an emergency. The main snags on the route are weather (rain bombs are common in the summer, which can flood the road and make travel dangerous), fires, and wildlife.

Along the way, everyone chooses where to stop based on the scenarios that appeal to them the most. Below is a list of the main points of interest that I have made in order to break up the long journey. Distances are measured from the beginning of the Dalton Highway, near Livengood.

• Yukon River Bridge (56 miles): The Yukon River is the first stop on the trip. Here during the summer, some volunteers keep a log cabin open (usually from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.), which serves as an information base for visitors. Alaska’s longest river is worth a look here, on one of the few bridges that cross it. The first of two gas pumps is located there.
• Mile 60 : at mile 60 is the site of the first camping area (there are 6 in total) where you can stay overnight along the Dalton. Even if you don’t stay overnight here, consider a stop: there is an artesian well that provides drinking water.
• Finger Mountain Wayside (98 miles): besides being a good panoramic point, here a big rock looks like a finger sticking out of the ground. Definitely one of the most photographed points of Dalton.
• Arctic Circle (115 miles): even if the parallel line is imaginary, here a sign indicates its passage. If you come here at lunch or dinner time, the picnic area is ideal for a longer stop. Not far away, on the hill, is the second camping area, but there is no drinking water.
• Gobblers Knob (131 miles): On sunny summer nights, get out of the car and climb the hill looking east to see the midnight sun .
• Grayling Lake Wayside (150 miles): The shallow lake visible today is the remnant of the ancient glacier that formed this valley. Grazing elk and other animals are easy to see in these shallow waters.
• Coldfoot (175 miles): the small town of Coldfoot once stood here, which began as a base for prospectors during the gold rush. In 1902 it had two farms, two stores, a post office, a gambling hall and seven saloons. Today, the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center is open from late May to mid-September, where you can stop by and learn about the Arctic lands. The third camping area and second gas station are located there.
• Marion Creek Campground (180 miles): fourth camping area along the route, it has a source of drinking water. A walk of about 1.8 miles leads to a beautiful waterfall with an 18 feet drop.
• Wiseman (189 miles): just after the Middle Fork Koyukuk Bridge, you can deviate from the route and follow the signs that will take you to the ancient village of Wiseman 3 miles away. Even today some people live here, basing their survival on hunting. Visitors are usually gladly expected.
• Sukakpak Mountain (204 miles): this is one of the most impressive mountains you can photograph in Alaska. Although it is only 4390 feet high, its peculiar shape does not leave you indifferent.
• Atigun Pass (244 miles): this mountain pass, at an altitude of 4665 feet, allows you to cross the Brooks Range.
• Galbraith Lake (275 miles): this lake is all that remains of the immense glacier that in past centuries occupied the entire valley of Atigun. From here, to the east, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge opens up. At 4 miles on a secondary road, you will find the fifth camping area
• Toolik Lake (284 miles): this lake is home to a research station of the University of Fairbanks. It is not possible to access the station.
• Happy Valley (334 miles): this is a great place to take a long layover. There is easy access to the Sagavanirktok River and camping opportunities.
• Franklin Bluffs (424 miles): the iron-rich soil caused these colorful, very interesting bluffs to form along the river.

As you might have guessed, it’s not easy to find places to stay overnight along the Dalton Highway. Most travelers choose to camp. You can camp at 5 spots along the route, which I described in the previous paragraph. The two best are the one at Mile 60 and the one at Marion Creek , as they have a source of drinking water and waste containers.

It is possible to sleep in a bed in 3 places along the route, besides Deadhorse. The lodges are located respectively: near the bridge over the Yukon (Yukon River Camp), in Coldfoot (Coldfoot Camp), and in Wiseman (Arctic Getaway).

On the other hand, you will have a considerable choice regarding the city of Fairbanks which, as we have seen, is practically an almost obligatory support point to undertake an itinerary along the Dalton Highway. You can check the available hotels by clicking on the link below.

Find accommodation in Fairbanks

If you don’t want to spend too much time worrying about the preparation of the trip you can rely on a tour operator. At the link below you will find an organized tour that allows you to travel along a part of the Dalton Highway by minibus, with the guided commentary of the driver.

Arctic Circle Tours

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

Andrea Cuminatto

Journalist and traveler. I love seeing new places, but more than anything, I love to meet those who live there.

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The Arctic Circle road trip: doing the Dempster Highway

In the distance, the mountain that gives 'Tombstone' Territorial Park its name (photo: Brook James).

--> BY Steve Madgwick

Last updated . 06 February 2020

In winter, The Dempster is the highway where Ice Road Truckers fear to tread, but after ‘the thaw’ there is no more scenic and adventurous way to drive straight up to the Arctic Circle. Come with us as we cross the Continental Divide on this road trip of a lifetime.

Kilometre zero.

I was expecting the last gas station for 370 kilometres to be a font of knowledge: updated road conditions, where to look out for rogue grizzlies, the usual stuff. But there’s a hitch. There’s no attendant, loo, or even a coffee machine at this last-chance bowser, which sits at the genesis of the Dempster Highway, where it leaves the relative sanctuary of the Klondike Highway in its dust. I punch in my PIN and fill the six-tonne RV’s greedy tank until it spits out the excess.

For the first few hundred summery and bucolic metres, the lonely highway doesn’t seem daunting. But the Dempster, mythologised in the television show Ice Road Truckers , sheds its token tarmac soon after the intersection, as if to say, “You won’t need this where you’re going”. Some passing visionary has drawn a single horn on a roadside sign that warns of wild horses. I accelerate into this magical place, looking for the freely galloping unicorns.

The first sight

It’s a long, dusty and bumpy ride but Yukon’s Dempster Highway is a road trip of a lifetime, that’s for sure (photo: Brook James).

A solitary tree pokes up from a suspiciously stacked island in the middle of a serene lake that truly mirrors the mountain range behind it. But the mirror breaks; a determined, silvery ripple; then a second, a third.

The beavers slap their paddle-like tails in the steely blue water as they climb onto the dam, again and again, to deposit, move and finesse the clumps of sticks, branches and mud that constitute their ever-expanding dam-cum-home. They’re still busy at it as I accelerate up the dusty hill into the wilderness. Some clichés are on point, I think to myself, especially beaver-related ones.

Tombstone Territorial Park (Kilometre 71)

In the distance, the mountain that gives ‘Tombstone’ Territorial Park its name (photo: Brook James).

Tombstone’s jagged peaks jump out of the trees like a scary clown, but the ‘Rugged Mountain Land’ as First Nation Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in know it, soon becomes a benevolent all-embracing friendly presence.

Lodge-like Tombstone Interpretive Centre punctuates the valley centre, beckoning travellers inside with its antler-topped authority. Inside, hiking options are laid on the table by peachy-keen Parks Canada officer Ellen, who has trekked all of Tombstone’s hikes many times over and genuinely wants me to do the same. She’s can’t even finish describing one trail before another idea zaps her like a taser. There are no “don’t do’s”, just “here’s what you need to know before you go”, an invigorating change from the nanny-state culture of my native hometown, Sydney.

Goldensides summit

The high point: you have to drive over three sets of ranges to get from the start of the Dempster Highway to the Arctic Circle, Yukon (photo: Brook James).

From up on Goldensides summit, the mighty Dempster looks like a strand of grey dental floss laid out on the valley floor, which stubbornly coils all the way to the Arctic. Peaks burst out of the verdant alpine tundra like giant bubbles.

The trail is usually a cruisy 3.4 kilometres up and back to a viewpoint, but I take it quite a few steps further and scramble up the scree to the peak for 360 degrees of wispy, cotton-ball clouds and a telescopic outlook straight down the North Klondike River to Tombstone Mountain itself, which looks like it stands on tippy toes just to outdo its peers. In the mid-distance down on the river, a patch of ice a city block wide disrupts the endless shades of greens and yellows; it gleams feverishly, like a statement of things to come, on the shady side of autumn.

After a ‘scree-ski’ back down to the RV, I notice a poetic reminder that I missed on the way up: “Hikers warning: If you see raven circling in the sky, maybe there’s a carcass close by … watch out for bears or wolves,” says the sign.

Wandering around

The four-metre-high, eight-metre-long RV looks perfectly cosy in its piny nook at Tombstone campground, like they were custom-made for each other. I wade into a clear warbling stream directly behind it for some post-hike relief. The brisk water constricts my chest, slaps me awake, like a Sunday night that magically turns into a Friday afternoon.

It’s berry season so I wander through the landscape’s natural fruit bowl. As the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in have done forever and a day, I pick tiny wild blueberries, moss berries, and cranberries, using Parks Canada signs as a reference. The blueberries are half the size and twice as tart as their vapid supermarket cousins, but much more satisfying in every other way.

The next day

The busiest animal in Yukon. A hyperactive beaver perpetually builds and restores the dam (photo: Brook James).

Winding north, past Tombstone’s ring of stone, feels like an accomplishment on the road of life. Southern Ogilvie Mountains range conquered: tick. Which leaves just two more ranges to conquer on this Arctic Circle road trip: the Northern Ogilvie and Richardson ranges.

A dark roadside fissure reveals a layer of subterranean ice capped by topsoil matted together by ground-hugging plants, a reminder that this summer carpet is almost universally under-laid with permafrost (literally, permanently frozen ground). I guess this sort of makes me an Ice Road Trucker, right?

Two Moose Lake (Kilometre 103)

Spot the beaver dam (hint: follow the tree down). Just south of Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon (photo: Brook James).

Two Moose Lake feels spiritual, the kind of place where even if your eyes can’t see a living soul, the rest of your senses know that your eyes lie. Traditionally, the remote lake was a First Nation hunting ground. The earth would be ‘cleansed’ after every hunt so moose would return the following year. And they still do. Far, far out in the lake, a single moose stands up to its hind quarters in the cold water, still as a sculpture, as if contemplating the meaning of life. Unfortunately, she’s too far out to ask where the second moose is today.

Further on, on the lonely Blackstone Uplands, a mumma and two jet-black black bear cubs pop out of the bushes in front of me. Just as camera is raised, a panicked moose sprints across the scene into its forested sanctuary. Further on still, a grizzly grazes on roadside berries. He ignores the two hyper-ventilating humans in his midst. The first few days of this RV road trip, from Whitehorse to Dawson City, had been basically wildlife-less, save for a plethora of squirrels and the odd fox, but now, thankfully, the floodgates have opened.

Driving onwards

Every passing human adds another rock to the inukshuk: Rock River campground, Yukon (photo: Brook James).

The shaly road magnetically pulls the RV ever northward. The oncoming traffic dries up so much that it feels like I’ve taken a catastrophic wrong turn. The Dempster begins to flaunt its bumps. Little bits of trim rattle off the RV’s kitchen and fall to the floor. The flatscreen TV shakes like a St Bernard trying to dry itself. I slow down to 50 kilometres an hour, then 40, then 30 in some spots, whatever tune that patch of road demands. The big Ford chameleons into its environment, grey road-spray coats its pearl white paint. Inside, dust finds its way into every crack, through closed doors and draws.

The landscape changes its face as quick as a hyperactive toddler. Sheer cliffs guard milky-blue rivers fringed by anomalous red rocks. Signs beg you not to stop under large land slips where boulders randomly freefall. High up on ridges, valleys compete to out-vast the last. Thousands of acres of stunted black spruce forest, blackened by wildfires of barely imaginable scope, make the scene feel deserted, untouchable. But of course these valleys were walked on by nomadic hunters long before folks in motorhomes could complain about bumpy roads.

I pick up a hitchhiker, Bjorn from Switzerland, who’s on the return leg of a monumental continent-spanning bicycle ride. He points out things that only someone cycling the Dempster at 10 kilometres an hour for days at a time could notice: plants, sounds and colours, most of which I’ve sped past so far. He recounts the story of a lone wolf that stalked him on a particularly lonely section of the highway. Eventually, luckily, the wolf just gave up, perhaps in search of less intrepid prey.

Civilisation Eagle (Kilometre 370)

Safe distance: A Grizzly bear takes advantage of the roadside buffet, Dempster Highway, Yukon (photo: Brook James).

According to the sign, Eagle Plains, population nine, is “where the true north begins”. It’s also the first drink for the RV since the attendant-less gas station. The attendant, who’s still got a couple of his front teeth, begins filling up the truck before I even say “howdy”. The view from either side of his ridge-top workshop redefines the word horizon.

Outside Eagle Plains Hotel, Rio the Labrador snoozes deeply. Apparently he’ll wake up for bears and/or food. Inside, my waitress also fills up my coffee cup without prompt, again and again. The steel framed mustard-coloured chairs, shell-patterned carpet, plethora of wall-mounted tomahawks and every other non-sentient thing in here is charmingly frozen in 1974. The dogsled-shaped condiment tray is my favourite fixture. Unfortunately, I don’t think it quite fits in my hand luggage.

The cocktail lounge is like a natural history museum for hunters, with every imaginable critter stuffed and mounted: a gigantic moose head, a wolverine, a juvenile eagle, an arctic fox et al. The grizzly pelt on the wall would almost cover two queen size beds.

The Arctic Circle (Kilometre 403)

There’s very little human fanfare but the Arctic Circle landscape is its own reward (photo: Brook James).

A sign trumpets “Rest Area 2 Kilometres Ahead” in big bold block letters. In small letters, underneath, are the words “Arctic Circle”. Two kilometres later, there’s slightly more fanfare, an interlocking information board and a picnic table book-ended by long-drop toilets, plopped in a roomy pull-over bay. A pair of squirrels takes turns to entertain passers-by. I read interesting facts from the board for a moment before the Circle’s tundra commands my attention. (Did you know the distance around the Earth at the Arctic Circle is less than half of that around the equator?)

With only a couple months to shine, grasses, mosses and lichens here put on a cabaret show of colour in an environment often misrepresented as ‘barren’. The silence is only occasionally interrupted by a breeze that can turn a warm day into a need-three-layer day on an Arctic whim. A solitary car drives past, north towards Inuvik, without even slowing down. Must be a local.

Camping above the Circle (40 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle)

Getting the campfire going… Rock River campground, above the Arctic Circle, Yukon (photo: Brook James).

There can’t be too many more surreal places on earth than Rock River Campground. It’s surrounded by one of the few stands of boreal forest in the area; Arctic tundra is all around, all the way to the Beaufort Sea. Down by the campsite’s token river, hardy travellers wishing to leave proof of their existence and tenacity have constructed smooth-stoned inuksuks (human-shaped land marker). In shallow swamps around its streams, trees fall over each other at unlikely, drunken angles, victims of the permafrost nipping at their roots.

We build a campfire and crack a drink to make a distinctly full-Circle toast. We never stray far from the campfire light because there’s a grizzly around, so say several signs and one local who, when asked how big the bear was, answered: “Big enough to fit you inside.” Bees hover around the RV’s bonnet, feasting on a day’s worth of highway bug harvest. I drink in energy from the once-in-a-lifetime isolation and feed on the intensity of a potential grizzly sighting.

I notice the RV’s solar panels are still taking charging. It’s 11.03pm.

There is absolutely no doubt that you’ll have to wash the RV after completing the Dempster Highway (photo: Brook James).

A few last things: before driving the Dempster Highway…

The Dempster Highway’s gravel, shale and clay surface is driveable in most vehicles, but you need to drive with great care and be reasonably self-sufficient.

– Make sure your tyre pressures are optimum

– Carry one or more spare tyres because flats are very common

– Plan your fuel stops carefully because there are only a few fill-up options between Dawson City and Inuvik (Northwest Territories) at the Dempster’s other end

– Visit NWT Dempster Highway Visitors Centre in Dawson City for advice before you go

– If you plan to hike Tombstone Territorial Park (especially in the backcountry) make sure you’re ‘bear aware’: Parks Canada recommends carrying bear spray

If this has whet your appetite for an Arctic adventure, check out our comprehensive guide. 

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One Comment

thanks for more memories and photos. we rode up the dempster on motorcycle in july of 1984 part of an 8000+ mile road trip to alaska and yukon. we did not have any dust to worry about. in its place we had lots of cool annd wet and muddy road construction too. it is probably the most remote road i have been on in over 40 years of riding all over us and canada. we turned arround at the arctic circle. we had seen enough mud and cold on our street bikes here and on the Alcan. awesome remote views on this road,hopefully we will return soon to ride it again this time all the way to inuvik and the arctic ocean. travel safe… steve

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Join our Arctic Circle Van Tour and experience the famous northern arctic region above the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway slices through northern Alaska from Livengood, crossing the Arctic Circle to the oil fields of Prudhoe Bay. Built in 1974 as the service road for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, the highway is not to be taken lightly. It's a mostly gravel thoroughfare often ruled by 18-wheelers. Services are few, and signs warn of everything from steep grades to avalanches. However, the signs say little of the road's chief attribute: some of North America's most dramatic scenery. The 414-mile road from Livengood to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, carves a path through forest and tundra, crosses the Yukon River, traverses the towering Brooks Range, and passes over the North Slope to end at the Arctic Ocean. Your guided tour includes the overnight in Coldfoot. The hotel is rustic by urban standards, the hotel is clean and each room has a private bath, a luxury in the wilderness. 

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2 Nights Comfort OR First-Class Accommodation in Fairbanks

1 Basic Overnight at Coldfoot

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Brooks Range Sightseeing Tour

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Daily from May 20th – September 15th

We have compiled a list of car rental categories that fit Alaska trips and are suitable for various budgets, trip durations, as well as group sizes. Please ask us for the category that best fits your requirements.

Customizing Tours

All of our tours are flexible and you can add, modify or exchange nights in destinations to suit your timetable and preferred routing. Thus, sometimes it will be necessary to observe ferry schedules, national park opening/closing dates etc. to match certain dates and/or departures. Please check also each itinerary online.

Included Services

Please refer to the appropriate tour page for a listing of included services. Our service generally includes the rental car, accommodation, applicable local taxes, ferry trips as scheduled, sightseeing as per itinerary, a detailed tour description, highway or road logs. Not included are: Meals, tunnel tolls, gasoline, entrance fees, additional sightseeing tours. The rental of a compact car (automatic) is always included in our flexible self drive tour packages. Additional rental days or upgrade to a Mid and Full Size Car, Mini Van or Sport Utility Vehicles (4x4) are available. The displayed upgrade rental rates are always per car (not per person) - and of course for the total length of the tour package. Our advertised rates include all local taxes, licensing fee, airport fee, road tax and unlimited mileage. Rental Car insurance is not included as most US guests can use their own private insurance. A valid driver license and a valid major credit card are mandatory for all individual vehicle rentals and/or tour packages including vehicle rentals. Driving on gravel roads/highways is at own risk. The rental car insurance is void on the following highways Denali Highway, Dalton Highway, Top of the World Highway, Taylor Highway, McCarthy Road, Dempster Highway and all other gravel roads. You will be responsible for any damages. Drivers have to be more than 25 years of age. Contact us if you are below 25 years of age.

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If you travel during the high season from the middle/end of June until the end of August we recommend booking as early as possible to avoid disappointments with sold out situations in highly frequented national parks and gateways - because the northern tour season is very short. The same applies in/around national holidays. Any hotel accommodation, rentals cars and ferry space must be definitely booked well in advance. Thus, tour operator such as our company may still have space on a short notice. Accordingly it is well worth to contact us.

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The last two weeks of May, June and September are perfect months for a vacation in the Land of the Midnight Sun. The weather is usually stable and sunny with almost 24 hours of daylight. July and August are prime travel months and are obviously very busy.

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You can contact us in case of an emergency. We have a dedicated 24/7 helpline available for our guests.

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Single: A room assigned to one person. Room with one bed (double, queen, king size)

Double: A room assigned to two people. Room with two double/queen beds or a king size bed.

Triple: A room assigned to three people. Room with two double/queen beds

Quad: A room assigned to four people. Room with two double/queen beds The maximum occupancy per room is four. Please request if you require a roll-a-way bed.

We can arrange our self drive tours including 2 rooms and 1 rental car if your group is larger than 4.

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We can substitute the overnight in a hotel with the overnight in a Bed and Breakfast. In this case breakfast is included. The rate of the first class / comfort hotel class will remain the same. We can only exchange some of the hotels since B&B’s are not available in all locations.

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Because of the long daylight hours it is uncommon to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) displays from mid May until mid August. The Aurora occurs mainly during the fall / winter months from September – April. Please refer also to our winter touring program.

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The Visa/entry requirements do change frequently. Please check requirements on the appropriate government pages. We are unable to take any responsibility for such information however you will definitely need your passport to cross the US/Canadian Border. Please ask us if your self drive tour enters Canada.

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We strongly encourage you to purchase travel insurance to cover: cancellation fees associated with an outing as well as airfare or other nonrefundable expense in the event you need to cancel a trip; medical expenses incurred on a trip; and the cost of a possible medical evacuation from a trip, canceled flights due to weather. We have made arrangements with our trusted travel insurance provider for you to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance plan. Please contact us for details

Jeff, CA: We very much enjoyed the overnight tour to the Arctic Circle. We left early and headed north in very comfortable small coach bus. We saw a moose and her calf with in the first hour. As moved north, we saw more and more of the Alaska Pipeline. We stoped often and very scenic places. We crossed the artic circle and travelled to Coldfoot. Not being from Alaska, we constantly got surprised by Alaska "towns". Not too much north of Fairbanks except beautiful views, wildlife, culture and more culture. We flew back to Fairbanks as part of the trip and took in the beautiful landscape from above five thousand feet.

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5 Great Reasons to Visit the Arctic Circle in Alaska

Published: december 1, 2023.

Home » Epic Locations » 5 Great Reasons to Visit the Arctic Circle in Alaska

Some Alaska travelers set their sights on a fascinating journey to a very distinct destination and a truly unique adventure in Alaska: visiting the Arctic Circle. For context, to be fair, most Alaska visitors rarely get north of Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska’s Interior. But about 400 rough road miles north of Fairbanks other intrepid folks will find the Arctic Circle. Getting there is an ambitious accomplishment (it takes time and logistical planning) but is an incredibly memorable and inspiring journey that transports you into the deepest of Alaska’s wilderness, remote landscapes, natural beauty, and history.

How to Travel to the Arctic Circle in Alaska

You can travel to the Arctic Circle on a day trip or overnight, by air , in a shuttle or bus, a balance of both , or with your own car. Note: You might find a rental vehicle (but only if you can identify the rare rental company that allows their customers to drive north of Fairbanks).

If you’re driving, Fairbanks will be your last chance to stock up on amenities and the last real city you’ll see on your route to the Arctic Circle. There are few frills and even fewer signs of civilization along the way. The traffic you’ll encounter is mostly semis (trucks) and various oil field employee vehicles traveling to and from Prudhoe Bay or outposts along the way. The payoff for this long trip for travelers, however, is huge. You’ll see traces of the area’s Gold Rush history, views of the shiny Trans Alaska Pipeline System , a wide variety of wildlife, wild rivers (including the famed Yukon River), and endless expanses of natural Alaska landscapes, from dense forests to mountain ranges to tundra.

Why make the trip to Alaska’s Arctic Circle?

Here are five excellent reasons to put this classic Alaska destination on your Alaska tour itinerary:

#1: Grab a Photo Opp and Traveler Bragging Rights!

Sure, some travelers can boast about crossing the Equator, but many fewer can say they’ve actually been to, and above, the Arctic Circle. This landmark destination in Alaska is certainly not as accessible as the Equator and many of the world’s five major circles of latitude. Just getting to the Arctic Circle is truly an accomplishment worth bragging about. That’s because it isn’t easy – few rental car companies allow use of their vehicles on the mostly unpaved and unforgiving Elliott and Dalton Highways. There are numerous outfitters who plan Arctic Circle trips for travelers, though, offering scenic flights and guided shuttle rides, day trips and plenty of additional fun activities. Check out Alaska Tours ideas around Arctic Circle trips such as the Arctic Circle Fly and Drive , Arctic Circle Air Adventure , and Arctic Circle Summer Drive Adventure .

Arcitc Circle flightseeing tours from Fairbanks.

Arriving at the Arctic Circle is both exciting and unceremonious – exciting because you’ve actually made it, and unceremonious because this grand “circle” is marked by a big wooden sign, albeit a really cool carved one complete with that shows the circle passing over Alaska. This is the perfect place for a photo opp of a moment you’ll never forget, and many companies will even supply you with a frame-worthy certificate recognizing your Arctic Circle visit.

#2: Experience an “Only-in-Alaska” Adventure!

Any trip to the Arctic Circle is both easy on the eyes and pretty spectacular, whether by vehicle or by air. Departing Fairbanks, you’re quickly in the wild, where wildlife sightings are abundant and can include an array of popular Alaska animals including bear, moose, caribou, muskoxen, fox, wolves, porcupines, wolverines, migrating and resident birds, to name just some. You’ll also pass major attractions like the Yukon River, and relics from Gold Rush history while passing by many Trans Alaska Pipeline System sightings. And of course you’ll be treated to scenic vistas, from massive mountains and passes to countless Alaskan rivers and lakes. If you’re looking for a wild “Only in Alaska” adventure, you’ll find that and more on this trip, and you’re arrival at the Arctic Circle is “the cherry on top”.

Alaska Muskox: An “Only in Alaska” highlight! (Austin Blackwell)

#3: Catch a View of the Bright and Colorful Northern Lights

Making a trip to the Arctic Circle during the winter will certainly put the “arctic” in Arctic Circle as life gets darker and colder the further north you travel. But Alaska’s Arctic and Interior regions also host a heartwarming bonus – views of the infamous aurora borealis, the Northern Lights! On a clear winter night near the Arctic Circle, it’s a safe bet that the northern lights will be dancing. Being this remote, there is little to no manmade ambient light to dilute the aurora, so they’re often brighter, broader and more colorful on the black palette of a winter night sky than you’ll experience near a city or anywhere in southern Alaska. Want to plan one of these Northern Lights trips? Take a look at the Arctic Circle Northern Lights Fly/Drive trip and the Arctic Circle Northern Lights Overnight Adventure .

Experience the Northern Lights near the Arctic Circle

#4: Get Local with the Warm Hospitality of Coldfoot, Alaska

Many Arctic Circle visitors will want to further immerse themselves in the local Alaskan experience. The quiet community of Coldfoot, 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle, is the lone hospitality hub along the say on this journey by highway, and this town certainly lives up to its name in the winter season. This region is historically one of the coldest locations in America’s coldest state. But Coldfoot is also ablaze with northern lights and exciting winter adventures . Year-round, there’s also a welcoming vibe in this bustling boomtown. Coldfoot first sprang alive during the Gold Rush in the Great North in the early 1900s and again later, during the construction of the Trans Alaska Pipeline System in the mid ‘70s. Less than a dozen people are true residents now, but you still can get a comfy room, warm meal, a tank of gas, and experience a handful of fun day trips from here. Almost all of Alaska Tours’ Arctic Circle tour itineraries include a visit or overnight in Coldfoot.

Coldfoot Camp

#5: Visit a Unique Alaska Milestone on Your Way to Prudhoe Bay

For a few truly intrepid travelers, visiting the Arctic Circle is a memorable pitstop on an even longer trip north to end of the road in Prudhoe Bay , Alaska’s remote hub of oil development. The Dalton Highway or a commercial flight will transport you to the town of Deadhorse, where there are a few hotels, an airport, some gas stations and one market. You will be surrounded by tundra, spanning as far as the eye can see in every direction. Bears, caribou, muskox and fox are common sights here, too. On the outskirts of town is the Arctic Ocean, where (if you’ve come this far, why not?) you can dip your toe in the ocean or even take a full-on frosty polar plunge. Now that’s a photo opp! And just a note, if you’re traveling on a multiday guided group trip , this is easiest. If you’re traveling solo, you’ll need to get permission from the security staff to get to the beach. And watch out for polar bears. Seriously! Now that’s a trip worth bragging about!

Alaska Tours Arctic Circle Sample Tour Map

However, and whenever, you travel to the Arctic Circle, Alaska Tours team can help you navigate all the logistics so you can just focus on the fun part. So, come north. Make your own Arctic Circle history happen

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• Our Most Requested Tour!

ARCTIC CIRCLE DAY TOUR

Quick Details

• Tags Category: Summer Tours
• Hour Glass Duration: 14 hours

Bus Departure: From 7:00 am (depending on hotel location).  Return is between 7:00pm and 9:00 pm.

Coffee   Inclusions:

• Pick up/drop off from hotels within the city limits of Fairbanks or North Pole. If you are staying at an Air BnB, please contact the office on 907 712 4529 (landline) for the closest pick up location. If you are staying outside the city limits, we can pick you up at Walmart or another hotel location. Please call our office to discuss what options are available.
• Snacks and bottled water
• Certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle

Info Exclusions:

• Lunch (available for purchase at Yukon River Camp)

Join our most requested Arctic Circle tour from Fairbanks!

Enjoy Alaska’s untouched nature and its raw beauty. Step across the Arctic Circle, learn about the Trans Alaska Pipeline, look down upon the Yukon River, take a stroll around Finger Mountain (alpine tundra+++weather dependent) and spot wildlife (no guarantee). Marvel over and absorb the vastness and vistas, known as the Last Frontier.

Travel along the famous and rugged Dalton Highway (well known from the TV Show “Ice Road Truckers”) to the Arctic Circle, where the summer nights are bright and the winter dark.

Our exceptional guides, comfortable transportation, and personalized service will make this all-day adventure a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• We will provide you with snacks and bottled water. This is unique to our company and what sets us apart from all others.
• Additional stops are available to purchase lunch and dinner along the road (food not included). You may bring your own food and snacks if desired.
• Our travel itinerary is flexible to ensure our guests can take advantage of unique photo opportunities. We incorporate many stops and opportunity for viewing pleasure.
• Make sure to dress weather appropriate and we recommend to wear some sturdy shoes to be able enjoy this trip.

Arctic Circle Tour Highlights:

• Day trip to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks, Alaska
• Viewing and information about the Trans Alaska Pipeline at the Pipeline viewing point near Fox
• Opportunity to view wildlife such as moose, bears, caribou or wolves along the tour (no guarantee)
• Have your photo taken with your certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle at the world-famous signpost

What to expect

Set off from your departure point in Fairbanks and journey to the Arctic Circle in a climate-controlled van. Traverse the Dalton Highway, keeping your eyes open for wildlife as you cross the Yukon River.

Arrive at your destination, where day and night blend together, and begin to immerse yourself in the indigenous culture. Take a guided walk through the arctic landscape, stop to take photos, and then savor a delightful snack and beverage. Lunch is also available for purchase at Yukon River Camp.

Along the way, make a trip to the Hilltop Restaurant and Marketplace for an opportunity to taste delicious pies, pick up some Alaskan gifts, or simply take a break to relax.

Finally, make your way back to Fairbanks while admiring more views of the mountains and valleys.

• We require a minimum number of 4 people to operate this tour. If minimum numbers are not met you will be advised and offered either a refund or to be rescheduled.
• We will contact you the day before your tour with your exact pickup time once all hotels are known and the pickup schedule is finalized.
• We will make a stop before leaving Fairbanks at a local grocery store to purchase food, drinks and snacks for a picnic lunch, or you can bring your own.
• This tour requires being able to enter and exit our van with limited assistance.  Please contact us if you have any concerns about mobility.

Our office can be reached at +1 907 712 4529 (Landline only, no texts). Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm Alaskan time and Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm during the winter.

Kevin was great. Lots of information on the pipeline, arctic circle, environs. Fabulous to drive the Dalton Road that goes to Prudhoe Bay. AND be at the Arctic Circle. A long day but well worth it!

Among the Top Experiences ever. Kevin was our Tour guide. He was very knowledgeable, helpful and made sure we see Northern Lights on the way back from Arctic Circle. Highly recommended when you are in Fairbanks.

What an amazing trip! Yes, it was a long day, but it was SO worth it. If you want to see Alaska, the pipeline, lots of black spruce, a diverse landscape, and travel the Dalton Highway and cross the mighty Yukon River to the Arctic Circle, this trip is for you! Our tour guide, JJ, was so knowledgeable about the area. She told our group about her experiences living in Alaska, bringing it to life for us. I also recommend ordering lunch and supper from Yukon River Camp for the trip. The food was delicious.Super time!

Really enjoyed our road-trip to the arctic circle! Tony was extremely entertaining and had many stories relating to the trip. He made the very long day go fast. The stop for pie was great. The best blueberry pie I’ve had in a long time. The Yukon river camp was a perfectly timed stop for lunch and the use of the restroom facilities. Some weather conditions made the finger mountain stop quick. Luckily the weather had improved by the time we reached the arctic circle. The certificates are a nice touch and having them officially stamped was a plus. Overall a road-trip that happens once in a lifetime.

We had a great trip up to the Arctic Circle! Tony was super knowledgeable about the land and had great stories to tell throughout the drive. The Dalton Highway is absolutely stunning, we even saw a mama bear and her cubs right before we got up to the Circle! Crossing the Circle was really cool, as was the Yukon River and the camp stop there. We learned a lot about Northern Alaska and I want to come back for a longer trip for sure. I really enjoyed my trip and Tony was a great guide!

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• Hour Glass 5.5 hours
• Tags Summer Tours , Winter Tours

Fairbanks Heritage Tour

This tour is for anyone who is interested in the history and highlights of Fairbanks, Alaska. Tour includes a convenient pick up from your hotel (within the city limits) and a local guide to show you the sites around Fairbanks.

• Hour Glass 6 hours
• Tags Summer Tours

Table Top Mountain Hiking Tour

The Table Top Mountain Trail is a wonderful and easy day tour for all age groups. The hike is spectacular and offers beautiful views of Nome Creek valley and Beaver Creek valley.

• Hour Glass 7 hours

Wickersham Dome Hiking Tour

The Wickersham Dome Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the White Mountains, close to Fairbanks, 28 miles on the Elliott Highway.

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How to see the northern lights in alaska in 2024.

If seeing the northern lights in Alaska is on your bucket list, this is the year to do it.

How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Chris McLennan | Courtesy of State of Alaska

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says solar activity is intensifying and will peak (at a higher level than previously thought) in 2024. This means travelers will have more opportunities to see the northern lights around the world .

If you're considering a trip to Alaska to witness this atmospheric phenomenon, read on to discover the best months to visit as well as a variety of viewing options.

The best time to see the northern lights in Alaska

Where to see the northern lights in alaska, northern lights alaska cruises.

• Alaska northern lights tours

Courtesy of Travel Alaska

According to the Alaska Travel Industry Association, the best time to see the northern lights is typically from Aug. 21 to April 21 , also known as the Aurora Season. While the aurora can appear at any time of night, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. are the prime viewing hours.

The winter solstice – which is the shortest day of the year, typically falling between Dec. 20 and 23 – is a particularly good time to be in Alaska for the northern lights. This day affords less daylight and more time to spot the aurora. In parts of Alaska, the amount of daylight during the winter solstice can range from around six hours in Anchorage to less than four further north in Fairbanks. Up in remote Utqiagvik (formerly called Barrow), about 320 miles north of the Arctic Circle, there are roughly 67 days of darkness from Nov. 18 to Jan. 23, resulting in even more opportunities to spot the northern lights.

Of course, 2024 is expected to be a little different. Scientists say solar activity will reach its peak from January to October, expanding the typical time frame for spotting the aurora. Ahead of and during your visit, experts recommend utilizing these forecasting resources:

• Aurora Tracker: Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aurora chaser, you'll appreciate Explore Fairbanks' real-time Aurora Tracker . This online reference shows up-to-the-minute information on the temperature, weather and likelihood of catching the northern lights in Fairbanks. Much of the data comes from one of the world's foremost aurora research centers, the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska–Fairbanks . To further assist in your search, you can also download the My Aurora Forecast & Alerts app on your smartphone.
• Aurora Forecast: For other parts of the state, the Geophysical Institute website's Aurora Forecast has daily forecasts of geomagnetic activity up to three days in advance and taken at three-hour intervals. There's also a summation on the webpage of whether the aurora will be active – or not – and where you'll find the best visibility in Alaska.

Courtesy of Aurora Villa

Below are the top destinations to consider when deciding where to see the northern lights in Alaska.

Fairbanks, known as the Golden Heart of Alaska, sits at 65 degrees north latitude, making it an excellent choice for aurora hunters, especially first-timers. It's easily accessible and offers plenty of accommodations , restaurants and other unique attractions . You can also be outside of Fairbanks within minutes to find excellent northern lights viewing locales.

Your chances of seeing the aurora display are excellent as the city sits where the activity of the polar lights is concentrated – under the ring-shaped zone known as the auroral oval. Local experts say that on clear evenings when the sky is very dark, you should be able to witness the skies light up on an average of four out of five nights in Fairbanks.

Where to stay:

• Aurora Villa : Located on the outskirts of Fairbanks, Aurora Villa offers luxurious guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows for viewing the northern lights in a cozy private space. The modern wooden cabin sits on 10 acres surrounded by forested hills, yet it's close enough to the city (less than 15 miles northeast) to explore all that Fairbanks has to offer.
• Pike's Waterfront Lodge : Located along the Chena River in Fairbanks, just minutes from Fairbanks International Airport, this property offers 180 rooms and 28 cabins for aurora-hunting adventurers. As a guest of the lodge, you can request that the front desk alert you when the northern lights appear – no matter the time of day or night. Pike's Waterfront Lodge also offers amenities to keep guests warm while viewing the light show outdoors.

Talkeetna sits about 115 miles north of Anchorage in south-central Alaska, at the base of Denali, the tallest mountain peak in North America. With its old clapboard buildings, log cabins and roadhouse dating back to 1917, this historic town offers a lot of outdoor fun beyond chasing the aurora. Main Street is filled with galleries, shops, restaurants and a brewery. The quirky village, once a former mining town, was the inspiration for the imaginary borough of Cicely in the TV show "Northern Exposure."

If you visit in December, check out the festivities at the monthlong Winterfest. This event features a parade of lights, a tree lighting ceremony and the Taste of Talkeetna food festival, plus entertaining events like the Bachelor Auction and the Wilderness Woman Competition.

When it's time to look up in the sky for the lights, local aurora hunters recommend heading out of town to Christiansen Lake or past the airport on Beaver Road. If you prefer to stay close by, look north into the sky toward Denali from Talkeetna Riverfront Park.

• Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge : Book a Mountain View room for views of Denali and the Alaskan Range. The cozy lodge offers multiple dining venues, including the award-winning Foraker Restaurant.
• Talkeetna Lakeside Cabins : These cabins provide peace and quiet on a private lake just 12 miles from Talkeetna.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is another spectacular place to view the northern lights in Alaska – not to mention one of the top tourist attractions in the U.S. The National Park Service says almost everywhere within the park is free from city light pollution, so if the conditions are right (meaning that's it's clear and dark enough), you should be able to see the aurora borealis, especially when looking toward the northern horizon.

However, when wintertime rolls around – from September or October through April – it's more difficult to access parts of the park, even though it's open year-round. Keep in mind, too, that the lodges closest to the park are typically closed from mid-September to mid-May.

Where to stay: Located less than 15 miles from the Denali National Park entrance, the Aurora Denali Lodge offers year-round accommodations equipped with queen-sized beds, smart TVs and private bathrooms. Rates at the lodge include a continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking and complimentary hot drinks. What's more, the property says visitors can expect plenty of wildlife sightings, such as bears, moose, lynxes, owls and snowshoe hares, just outside your door.

Coldfoot Camp

Coldfoot Camp is situated above the Arctic Circle in the Brooks Mountain Range, near the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The remote wilderness destination is ideal for aurora viewing since it sits directly under the auroral oval. It's also the perfect locale for backcountry snowshoeing, wildlife viewing and dog mushing.

Where to stay: The Inn at Coldfoot Camp offers rustic accommodations located in trailers that once housed Alaskan pipeline workers. The rooms include two twin beds and a private bathroom and shower. Guests can dine at the on-site Trucker's Cafe, which offers breakfast and dinner buffets in the summer months and all-day a la carte dining in the winter. When you're ready for a cold one at the end of the day, check out the Frozen Foot Saloon and order an Alaska-brewed beer.

If you prefer camping and have your own gear , you can camp free of charge on the property during the summer months. Coldfoot Camp also hosts a selection of year-round Arctic adventures and excursions, including a trip to the nearby village of Wiseman for aurora viewing.

This remote wilderness retreat has just 13 full-time residents. Wiseman is located in Alaska's Brooks Range, about 15 miles north of Coldfoot Camp, 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle and 270 miles from Fairbanks. The community sits directly under the auroral oval, making it one of the best places in Alaska to view the northern lights. You can expect to see the spectacle in the sky in Wiseman about 250 nights a year, especially between late August and mid-April.

• Arctic Hive : Arctic Hive has the distinction of being the northernmost yoga studio in the U.S. A common fiberglass lodge allows guests to gather for cooking and meals, and meditation, educational gatherings and other activities are hosted in a geodesic dome. Arctic Hive also offers retreats that include northern lights viewing opportunities in February and March.
• Arctic Getaway : This bed-and-breakfast sits between the middle fork of the Koyukuk River and Wiseman Creek, offering three cabins. While here, you can learn what it's like to homestead in Alaska above the Arctic Circle and enjoy outdoor activities like dog sled rides across the vast wilderness, cross-country skiing , pack rafting and flightseeing by bush plane.
• Boreal Lodging : Reachable by vehicle, Boreal Lodging has several rental options, ranging from lodge rooms to larger cabins with living areas and kitchens.

Located in western Alaska overlooking the Norton Sound of the Bering Sea, Nome is the ending point for the more than 1,000-mile, 51-year-old Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race in March. Once the most populated city in Alaska, Nome had almost 20,000 residents and an average of 1,000 new people arriving daily during the height of the gold rush in 1899. Nome is a little quieter now, with a population of less than 4,000 residents.

Where to stay: Some of the best spots for viewing the aurora are at the end of town, where the 52-room Aurora Inn & Suites is located. The hotel conveniently offers car rentals on-site.

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Situated on the banks of the Arctic Ocean, Utqiagvik is the northernmost city in the U.S. The town, formerly known as Barrow, changed its name in 2016 back to Utqiagvik, its traditional Inupiaq name. Utqiagvik is only accessible by plane: Alaska Airlines and other regional carriers offer service from both Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Where to stay: For accommodations, make reservations at a hotel named for its location – the Top of the World Hotel . The property's comfortable rooms offer views of the Arctic Ocean, and the on-site restaurant, Niggivikput (meaning "our place to eat"), serves traditional local dishes like reindeer soup. While you may be there for aurora hunting, don't miss the excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities: You may see polar bears, caribou, foxes, bearded seals, whales, walruses, migratory birds and the great snowy owl on the tundra.

Borealis Basecamp

One of the best glamping destinations in the U.S. , Borealis Basecamp is a remote 100-acre property that sits within a boreal forest 25 miles north of Fairbanks. The property features 20 individual igloos, resembling those you'd find at Arctic research stations and on polar expeditions, as well as five glass cubes. All accommodations allow guests to gaze up at the aurora and the starry night sky while snuggled up in bed. You'll also enjoy many amenities you'd find in a hotel, including full bathrooms with toiletries and a selection of coffee, hot cocoa and tea.

Choose from a variety of packages that include accommodations and activities like dog-sledding, UTV tours, helicopter sightseeing experiences and more.

Getty Images

One of the best times to cruise to Alaska is during the aurora season. Aurora season sailings to Alaska are available with the following cruise lines this year.

If you're interested in excursions for aurora viewing, look for a line that offers cruisetours, such as Holland America. These tours offer the best of both worlds, giving you time on land and at sea to view the dancing night sky. Holland America's cruisetours range from overnight stays just 2 miles from Denali National Park at the McKinley Chalet Resort to a domed luxury train ride through Alaska's backcountry on the McKinley Explorer. On a Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali, look for Alaska's "Big Five": grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and wolves. Just keep in mind that none of the above cruise lines can guarantee you'll see the northern lights during your journey.

The best northern lights tours in Alaska

Jody Overstreet | Courtesy of State of Alaska

If you want to experience the aurora borealis by joining a tour group, you'll find a variety of options led by expert guides and granting you easier access to many of the state's remote destinations, often with other activities included. (Just be aware that, on any tour or excursion, there's no way to guarantee that the aurora will be visible.) These are some of the best northern lights tours in Alaska:

Arctic Dog Adventure Co.: Aurora Overnight Tour

Dog-sledding is one of the top winter activities in Alaska, and you can choose to do it by day or night. If you want to experience an Alaska dog-sledding adventure while chasing the aurora, book a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Arctic Dog's Aurora Overnight Tour. Highlights of this two-day, one-night excursion – which starts in Fairbanks – are dog mushing your own sled team and glamping in a heated tent under an aurora-filled sky. Other features of the tour include cold weather gear, a photography lesson and Alaska-inspired meals.

Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights & Murphy Dome Tour

Located around 20 miles northwest of the city, Murphy Dome is regarded as one of the best places to watch the northern lights in Fairbanks at nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. This location, once home to Murphy Dome Air Force Station with as many as 250 personnel stationed at the base, now houses a long-range radar station that detects military air threats from overseas.

Alaska Wildlife Guide leads 5.5-hour northern lights tours to Murphy Dome, typically from late August to early April – you can check with the company for day-to-day tour availability. Excursion prices include round-trip transportation from Fairbanks, 360-degree views of the north-facing sky, hot beverages and bottled water – in addition to (hopefully) hours of memorable aurora viewing.

Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights & Arctic Circle Tour

This full-day (14-hour) excursion, also offered by Alaska Wildlife Guide, begins in Fairbanks and crosses the Arctic Circle into Alaska's vast and remote wilderness. The tour includes a drive along the more than 800-mile Trans-Alaskan Pipeline and a half-mile walk along the loop at Finger Mountain with views overlooking the Kanuti Flats (depending on the season). Your guide will also stop along the riverbank after crossing the Yukon River Bridge.

During the tour, you'll learn about the history of the pipeline and hear narratives around the other included stops. A snack and warm beverage are included; then, if conditions are just right, you'll have the chance to see the brilliant light show dance across the dark, clear skies before you arrive back in Fairbanks at dawn.

Alaska Journey Tours: Northern Lights (Aurora) Chasing Tour

Get picked up at your Fairbanks hotel (or meet at the Hyatt Place Fairbanks) for this three-hour northern lights tour in a heated SUV. Guides take photos of tourgoers as well as their own photos of the night sky, which are later shared with the group. Recent travelers praise this tour, and appreciate that the guides are always determined to give them the best northern lights viewing experience.

Alaska Tours: Bettles Lodge Winter Adventure

Hosted by Alaska Tours, the Bettles Lodge Winter Adventure is available January to March and August to December. This excursion includes two, three or four nights at this wilderness lodge about 35 miles north of the Arctic Circle. During the winter days, enjoy outdoor Arctic sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing or stay warm indoors chatting with other guests at the Aurora Lodge. In the evenings, you can bundle up and head outside at one of the best places in Alaska to see the spectacle in the sky.

Prices include round-trip airfare between Fairbanks and Bettles, accommodations at the lodge, meals, a village tour and complimentary use of the Arctic gear (in season).

Alaska Photo Treks: Anchorage Aurora Quest

Alaska Photo Treks offers one of the best ways to see the northern lights in Anchorage – and you'll even learn how best to photograph the aurora, which can be a challenge to capture digitally or on film. This experience, the Anchorage Aurora Quest, is available nightly (when conditions are right), typically from mid-August to mid-April. The approximately six-hour guided tour with a professional photographer explains the science behind the northern lights and provides photo tips for budding aurora photographers in a small-group format. Tourgoers are picked up from their hotel by the guide at about 10 p.m. and return around 4 a.m., though that time can vary based on the aurora forecast.

On the Alaska Photo Treks website, you'll find a list of recommended camera equipment to bring. If you're using a smartphone, the tour group suggests downloading an aurora app and bringing a tripod. The company also advises that you'll be outdoors for about two hours, so you need to dress appropriately for the weather. For the best aurora viewing, the guides usually travel between one to three locations within a 70-mile radius of Anchorage. If you're in town for an extended stay, Alaska Photo Treks also offers a four-day pass for even more nocturnal viewing of the auroral activity.

Alaska Tours: Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights

Chena Hot Springs Resort is known for its therapeutic waters and aurora-viewing opportunities. If you prefer to head out with a guide rather than on your own, book the Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights tour with Alaska Tours. This package includes a four- to five-hour Aurora Expedition tour, four nights of accommodations, and access to resort amenities including cross-country skiing and snow machine tours.

Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs

Day trips are also an option for those who'd like to enjoy the resort amenities and a chance at seeing the northern lights from Chena Hot Springs. This tour offered by Alaska Wildlife Guide includes admission to the hot springs and Aurora Ice Museum as well as pickup from local hotels. Recent travelers say the tour guides are top-notch.

John Hall's Alaska: Alaska's Winter Wonders

For an extended land tour to chase the aurora – and experience Alaska's magical winter wonderland – book this bucket list eight-day adventure with John Hall's Alaska. The company's Alaska's Winter Wonders tour is offered in February and March; it features up to seven nights of northern lights viewing, as well as adventure-filled days with skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing. You'll also take an awe-inspiring flightseeing bush plane ride over Denali National Park, which includes a fly-by of the Foraker, Silverthorne, Hunter and Moose's Tooth peaks before landing on the Great Gorge of Ruth Glacier – the deepest in the world.

If that's not enough adventure, test your skills at dog mushing and curling or take an aerial tram ride. Travelers can also check out the local breweries or just sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views. Additional highlights include spending two evenings under the dancing night sky in one of the domed igloos at Borealis Basecamp, as well as aurora borealis photography lessons.

All-inclusive pricing covers accommodations, meals, luxury land and small plane transportation, fully guided service, gratuities, and baggage handling – plus a black subzero jacket to keep you warm during your Alaska adventure.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship for year-round outdoor adventure and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She writes about the travel and culinary industries for a variety of major publications.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Packable Jackets
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Alaska Vacations , Vacation Ideas

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13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

• Stunning coastal views and charming towns make the Pacific Coast Highway a bucket-list-worthy road trip in California. (100 characters)
• Route 66 is perfect for history buffs, connecting small towns and offering iconic landmarks along the way. (102 characters)
• The Great River Road, spanning 10 states, provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River for an ultimate bucket list road trip. (129 characters)

There's something inherently alluring about the open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to explore new destinations and experiences. From adventures on the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the stunning vistas of the Southwest, the United States is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking road trip routes in the world. This article lists some of the best bucket-list-worthy road trips to take in the USA for a memorable adventure. So, grab those keys, buckle up, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime on one of America's most scenic roads .

UPDATE: 2023/12/07 11:27 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Even More Great Road Trips To Take In The United States

The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48). This list was expanded to include even more excellent road trip ideas to explore the nation.

Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Byways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Staggering sheer drops and coastal views are what make this pacific coast adventure stand out.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous road trips in the US , stretching along the California coastline between Orange County and Mendocino County, covering a distance of approximately 655 miles. The highway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

Some of the must-see spots along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, the Hearst Castle, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. The drive also takes you through the spectacular Big Sur region, overlooking the coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

• Length: 655 miles
• When To Go: September through October
• Bucket List Stop: Pfeiffer Beach to see the falls

Route 66, Illinois to California

Perfect for history buffs, route 66 tells stories of america's midwestern glory days.

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica in California, covering a distance of approximately 2,448 miles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the US and offers plenty of places to visit along the way. The highway is a popular route for travelers, as it connects many small towns and rural areas in the Midwest and the Southwest.

Some of the must-see attractions and landmarks along the highway include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas; the Grand Canyon in Arizona; and the Santa Monica Pier in California.

• Length: 2,448 miles
• When To Go: May and September
• Bucket List Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa to add a quirky, famed landmark to the trip

Great River Road, Mississippi River

This route covers 10 states in total, making it an ultimate bucket list road trip.

The Great River Road is a national scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 miles.

Some of the highlights of the Great River Road include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri; the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi; and the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The road also passes through several national and state parks, such as Itasca State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Natchez Trace State Park.

• Length: 3,000 miles
• When To Go: During the fall months , September through November
• Bucket List Stop: The French Quarter in New Orleans for an authentic Crescent City experience

Related: 10 Bucket List Road Trips To Take In The US This Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Known for being the most scenic mountain road in the south, the blue ridge scenery is unparalleled.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive, spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The road is among the best road trips US states have to offer, especially due to the fact it provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and various opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering visitors a variety of attractions, including overlooks with panoramic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Some of the most popular stops along the parkway include the Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

• Length: 469 miles
• When To Go: Mid-May through Mid-September
• Bucket List Stop: Shenandoah National Park to take in the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains

Discover the best stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway when planning a road trip adventure along this road.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Seven mile bridge connects travelers to bahia honda state park, making it perfect for nature lovers.

The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile scenic road that connects mainland Florida with the Florida Keys , a chain of islands stretching southward into the Gulf of Mexico. The highway, which is easily among the best road trips in the US in terms of ocean scenery, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean - thereby also providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching en route.

Some of the highlights of the Overseas Highway include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, which features hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds. Other popular stops along the highway include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Dolphin Research Center, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

• Length: 113 miles
• When To Go: Between January and April
• Bucket List Stop: Bahia Honda State Park to appreciate the untouched beauty of this Florida Keys landscape, and any spring season festivals

The Pacific Northwest

In stark contrast to other pacific roads, the northwest scenic byway offers dense woods, mountain views, and scenic waterways.

The Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway, also known as the Cascade Loop, is another one of the most beautiful road trips in the US. It's a 440-mile scenic route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, allowing travelers to enjoy various outdoor recreation and cultural exploration along the way.

The Scenic Byway is dotted with charming mountain towns such as Leavenworth, and Winthrop, offering a Wild West vibe with wooden sidewalks and historic buildings. Other highlights of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway include North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning river canyon, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall viewing.

• Length: 440 miles
• When To Go: During the spring or summer months
• Bucket List Stop: North Casades National park, where travelers can cross off bucket list hikes, wildflower viewing, and scenic waterfalls off their list

Related: A Road Trip To Remember: The 10 Most Scenic Drives For Your Spring Vacation In The U.S.

The Grand Circle, Southwest USA

This route takes travelers through scenic rocky canyons between utah, arizona, new mexico, colorado, and nevada.

The Grand Circle is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the most iconic national parks and monuments in the American Southwest. The route includes the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada, stretching over 1,400 miles of stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and geological wonders.

The Grand Circle route typically starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, passing through iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands, known for their towering red rock formations, stunning canyons, and unique geological features. Other highlights of the Grand Circle route include Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Hoover Dam.

• Length: 1,400 miles
• When To Go: April to May, or September to early November
• Bucket List Stop: Monument Valley to explore hoodoos and other unique geological formations

The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Perfect for small town lovers and scenic lakeside views, this route promises all the beauty of the great lakes.

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a scenic road trip taking visitors around the five Great Lakes. The route is approximately 6,500 miles long and passes through eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of landscapes, from urban areas to small towns and rural countryside.

Along the way, visitors can explore national parks like Isle Royale, Pictured Rocks, and Niagara Falls, with various historic lighthouses, beaches, and scenic overlooks. One of the highlights of the tour is the Great Lakes Seaway Trail and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands, known for its charming waterfront towns.

• Length: 6,500 miles
• When To Go: During the summer months , between June and August
• Bucket List Stop: Niagara Falls for those who have never been, or Pictured Rocks for those who have

The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

Early america can be seen on this route, in the form of several landmarks and even a former midwest mining town.

The Black Hills and Badlands route is a scenic driving route passing through some of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Dakota. The route covers approximately 150 miles, taking visitors through a variety of landscapes, including the rugged badlands, towering granite peaks, and pristine forests, including several iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.

Some other notable stops along the route include Custer State Park, Deadwood gold-mining town, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of motorcycle enthusiasts.

• Length: 150 miles
• Bucket List Stop: Badlands National park to witness some of the most famous landmarks in American history

Related: Hit The Road: 10 Unforgettable Adventures Await With These U.S. Road Trip Ideas

The Texas Hill Country

Small towns and country that span for miles exude the true charm of the texas hill country route, offering the best views in the state.

The Texas Hill Country route offers picturesque views of beautiful rolling hills and charming small towns of central Texas. The route is approximately 200 miles long, extending between Austin and San Antonio. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural attractions. The road through Texas Hill Country takes visitors through several scenic small towns, such as Fredericksburg, Gruene, and Luckenbach. These are some of the best towns in the Texas Hill Country , each particularly known for its charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

One of the highlights of the route is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the landscape from the many lookout points and scenic overlooks along the way.

• Length: 200 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Fredericksburg, which is a bucket list destination for small town lovers

The Dalton Highway, Alaska

With this route being the only one that crosses the arctic circle, the dalton highway is the definition of "bucket list".

The Dalton Highway is the northernmost highway in the United States and the only road trip in this list that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway is an all-weather road but also incredibly remote and one that requires extensive planning (be prepared for breaking down in the remote Alaskan wilderness).

The Dalton Highway runs from Fairbanks (the main city in Interior Alaska) and ends at Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay (near the Arctic Ocean).

• Length: 414 miles
• When To Go: June to mid-July , when the highway is usually dry
• Bucket List Stop: Finger Mountain Wayside, which also has an interpretive half-mile hiking trail for those seeking more scenic overlooks

Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive

While hawaii might seem out of the way, the big island circuit drive is worth the flight to see active volcanoes and stunning coastal landscape views.

The Big Island of Hawaii is by far the largest island in the Hawaiian Island Chain and is home to some of the world's most active volcanoes and some of the most stunning landscapes. One of the epic drives to consider is to drive around the Big Island. The two main roads on the Big Island are Highways 11 and 19 and taken together they create one big loop around the whole island.

• Length: 300 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, August, September, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Pepe'ekeo Scenic Drive is at the start of Highway 19, just north of Hilo

Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive

It wouldn't be a bucket list trip if it didn't have a unique route, and the drive from seattle to washington and fairbanks, alaska, also brings travelers through canada.

This suggested road trip from Seattle in Washington to Fairbanks in Alaska is the only American road trip to also pass through Canada. This is a mammoth 2,150-mile road trip passing through some of the remotest landscapes of North America (including British Columbia and the Yukon Territory). Alternatively, to keep it an all-American 'road trip', consider taking the Alaska Marine Highway - a ferry network that is part of the American highway system that bypasses Canada.

• Length: 2,150 miles
• When To Go: During summer months, preferably early June and July
• Bucket List Stop: While Fairbanks is the ultimate bucket list stop, saving some time to explore Canada can also add a unique aspect to this road trip

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Norilsk: The city built by gulag prisoners where Russia guards its Arctic secrets

Environmental activists are frustrated by how authorities handled a diesel spill which poured into two Arctic rivers in late May.

International correspondent @DiMagnaySky

Friday 3 July 2020 23:41, UK

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The drive from Norilsk airport to the city takes you past mile after mile of crumbling, Soviet-era factories.

It looks like an endless, rusting scrapyard - a jumble of pipes, industrial junk and frost-bitten brickwork. If you were looking for an industrial apocalypse film setting, this would be your place - but you're unlikely to get the permissions.

Norilsk was built in Stalin's times by gulag prisoners. This gritty industrial city is a testament to their endurance both of the cruelty of Stalin's regime and of the harsh polar climate. There were no thoughts then on how to build to protect the environment, just to survive it.

Vasily Ryabinin doesn't think much has changed, at least in ecological terms. He used to work for the local branch of the federal environmental watchdog, Rosprirodnadzor, but quit in June after exposing what he says was a failure to investigate properly the environmental impact of the gigantic diesel spill which poured into two Arctic rivers in late May.

At 21,000 tonnes, it was the largest industrial spill in the polar Arctic .

Despite the Kremlin declaring a federal emergency and sending a host of different agencies to participate in the clean-up, just last week Mr Ryabinin and activists from Greenpeace Russia found another area where technical water used in industrial processes was being pumped directly into the tundra from a nearby tailing pond. Russia's investigative committee has promised to investigate.

"The ecological situation here is so bad," Mr Ryabinin says.

"The latest constructions such as the tailing pond at the Talnack ore-processing plant were built exclusively by Nornickel chief executive Vladimir Potanin's team and supposedly in accordance with ecological standards, but on satellite images you can see that all the lakes in the vicinity have unnatural colours and obviously something has got into them."

Mining company Nornickel would disagree. It has admitted flagrant violations at the tailing pond and suspended staff it deems responsible at both the Talnack plant and at Norilsk Heat and Power plant no 3 where the diesel spill originated from.

On Thursday it appointed Andrey Bougrov, from its senior management board, to the newly-created role of senior vice president for environmental protection. It has a clear environmental strategy, provides regular updates on the status of the spill, and its Twitter feed is filled with climate-related alerts.

But what investors read is very different to the picture on the ground.

Norilsk used to be a closed city - one of dozens across the Soviet Union shut off to protect industrial secrets. Foreigners need special permissions approved by the Federal Security Service (FSB) to enter the region. It would take an invitation from Nornickel to make that happen and, for the past month since the spill, that has not been forthcoming.

Unlike in Soviet times, Russian citizens are now free to come and go. That's why our Sky News Moscow team were able to fly in and travel around the city, even if getting to the spill site was blocked. What they were able to film provides a snapshot of the immense challenge Russia faces in upgrading its Soviet-era industrial infrastructure, particularly at a time when climate change is melting the permafrost on which much of it was built.

Just downwind from one of the rusting factories on the city outskirts is a huge expanse of dead land. The skeletal remains of trees stand forlorn against the howling Arctic winds. Sulphur dioxide poisoning has snuffed the life out of all that lived here. Norilsk is the world's worst emitter of sulphur dioxide by a substantial margin.

"For 80km south of here everything is dead," Mr Ryabinin says, "and for at least 10km in that direction too. Everything here depends on the wind."

Immediately after the spill, Mr Ryabinin filmed and took samples from the Daldykan river just a few kilometres from the fuel tank which had leaked. By that point the river was a churning mix of diesel and red sludge dredged up from the riverbed by the force of the leak. Norilsk's rivers have turned red before and the chemical residues have sunk to the bottom, killing all life there. Nothing has lived in those rivers for decades.

In his capacity as deputy head of the local environmental watchdog, Mr Ryabinin says he insisted that he be allowed to fly further north to check the levels of contamination in Lake Pyasino and beyond.

Nornickel at the time claimed the lake was untouched by the spill. Mr Ryabinin says his boss encouraged him to let things be.

"I can't be sure I would have found anything, but this sort of confrontation - making sure I didn't go there with a camera, let alone with bottles for taking samples, it was all very clear to me. It was the final straw."

Rosprirodnadzor refused to comment to Sky News on Mr Ryabinin's allegations or suggestions that the agency was working hand in hand with Nornickel.

Georgy Kavanosyan is an environmental blogger with a healthy 37,000 following on YouTube. Shortly after the spill, he set out for Lake Pyasino and to the Pyasina River beyond to see how far the diesel had spread.

"We set out at night so that the Norilsk Nickel security wouldn't detect us. I say at night, but they've got polar nights there now, north of the Arctic Circle. So it's still light but it's quieter and we managed to go past all the cordons."

He is one of the few to have provided evidence that the diesel has in fact travelled far beyond where the company admits. Not just the 1,200km (745m) length of Lake Pyasino but into the river beyond.

He says his measurements indicated a volume of hydrocarbons dissolved in the water of between two and three times normal levels. He thinks after he published his findings on YouTube, the authorities' vigilance increased.

Greenpeace Russia have spent the last two weeks trying to obtain samples from Lake Pyasino and the surrounding area. They have faced difficulties getting around and flying their samples out for independent analysis.

They are now waiting for results from a laboratory in St Petersburg but say the samples remain valid technically for just four days after collection and that they weren't able to make that deadline due to the authorities' actively obstructing their work.

Elena Sakirko from Greenpeace Russia specialises in oil spills and says this has happened to her before. This time, a police helicopter flew to the hunter's hut where they were staying and confiscated the fuel for the boat they were using. Then a deputy for the Moscow city parliament tasked with bringing the samples back from Norilsk was forced to go back empty-handed.

"We were told at the airport we needed permission from the security department of Nornickel," Ms Sakirko says. "We asked them to show us some law or statement to prove that this was legal or what the basis for this was, but they haven't showed us anything and we still don't understand it."

Nornickel announced this week that the critical stage of the diesel spill is over. The company is now finalising dates for a press tour for foreign media and for other international environmentalists.

Mr Ryabinin thinks this should have happened weeks ago.

"If we don't let scientists come to the Arctic region to evaluate the impact of the accident, then in the future if anything similar happens, we won't know what to do."

A spokesperson for Nornickel said the company "is actively cooperating with the scientific community and will meticulously assess both the causes and effects of the accident."

Nornickel considers permafrost thawing to be the primary cause of the accident, but is waiting for the end of investigation before making a final statement, the spokesperson said.

They added that the company "accepts full responsibility for the incidents on its sites these past two months and holds itself accountable for any infrastructural deficits or poor decisions by personnel.

"The imperative is to do everything to clean up our sites, instil a stronger culture of transparency and safety in our workforce, and ensure that such situations do not occur in the future."

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56th Parallel

Northern Lights in Russia: Arctic Winter Magic Package

12 Nights / 13 Days

https://www.tourtravelworld.com/packages/northern-lightsin-russia-arctic-winter-magic-package-135617.html INR 298200 Offered by : 56th Parallel https://www.tourtravelworld.com/packages/northern-lightsin-russia-arctic-winter-magic-package-135617.html

Package Overview

Russian winters are harsh yet extraordinarily beautiful, and it’s the lands above the Arctic Circle where winter’s transformational effects are most keenly felt. The Kola Peninsula is home to people and animals who survive and thrive despite the chilling temperatures. This Murmansk northern lights tour shows you two sides to life in the Russian Winter, from the grandiose cities of Moscow and St Petersburg to the polar landscapes of the remote Kola Peninsula. On this trip to see the northern lights in Russia, we begin in Moscow, where the city’s monuments, parks and churches are transformed into a scene from a winter fairy tale, all icing sugar snow and shimmering lights. Next, we head north to Saint Petersburg, where you can enjoy world-class attractions like the Hermitage, free of summer crowds. Forging closer to Arctic Circle, we’ll stop to admire the Ruskeala Mountain Park and historic Kizhi Island. Finally, we’ll arrive in the Kola Peninsula by train. Discover the customs of the indigenous Saami and traverse their snowy lands in sleds pulled by huskies and reindeer. Finally, we reach Murmansk, the largest city in the Kola Peninsula. While there’s the possibility to observe Aurora Borealis throughout our time in the Kola, Murmansk and its area is regarded as one of the best places in the world to experience the psychedelic light display in all its awe-inspiring glory.Services of the guide from the Polar Geophysical Institute (PGI) for observing Aurora Borealis. Flights, travel insurance, visa, tips

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Day wise Itinerary

Day 1 : Welcome to Moscow

Arrive in Moscow and transfer to your centrally located hotel. Get your first taste of life in the Russian metropolis, exploring the city at your leisure.

Day 2 : Moscow City Tour

It’s time to get more deeply acquainted with Russia’s capital, starting with a guided tour of the Kremlin and its cathedrals. Stroll at the iconic Red Square and take a short excursion on the famous Moscow Subway.

Day 3 : Fast Train to St Petersburg

Spend the morning your way. In the afternoon, take the fast train, which reaches St Petersburg in approximately four hours.

Day 4 : St Petersburg City Tour

Our morning excursion provides an opportunity to see St Petersburg’s most famous monuments, bridges, embankments and parks. Wander down the Nevsky Prospekt, visit St Isaac’s Cathedral, the Winter Place, and other places tied to the city’s fascinating heroes and historical events.

Day 5 : Day Trip to Pushkin

Today we head out of St Petersburg for a day excursion to the nearby town of Pushkin, home of the Tsarskoe Selo (Tsar’s Village). Admire the baroque Catherine Palace, stroll through Catherine and Alexander Parks and visit the famous Amber room. After lunch in the grounds, we transfer to Pavlovsk, a suburb south of Pushkin, for a horse and carriage ride in Pavlovsk Park.

Day 6 : The State Hermitage Museum

On our last day in St Petersburg, we pay a visit to its most lauded attraction - the State Hermitage Museum, which houses some 3 million masterpieces, spread across six magnificent historic buildings, including the splendid Winter Palace. Departure by overnight train to Petrozavodsk in Karelia.

Day 7 : Karelia: Ruskeala Park

Embark on a scenic, several hour journey to the Ruskeala Mountain Park. Unique for its waterfalls and varicoloured marble quarries. The return journey will take us back to Petrozavodsk by late evening.

Day 8 : Karelia: Kizhi Island

Today we visit the Kizhi Island in the centre of Lake Obega. Getting here in winter requires a ride on a hovercraft. Only a small rural settlement remains on Kizhi, and the island has become an open-air museum with over 80 historical wooden structures, some dating to the 14th century. After returning to Petrozavodsk, it’s time to get ready for our overnight train, which will take us above the Arctic Circle.

Day 9 : Kola Peninsula

We have now crossed the northern polar circle and arrived in the small town of Olengorsk in "Russian Laplandia". We head straight to a Siberian husky farm, where and spend time getting to know the charming resident dogs here as well as their reindeer stablemates. Today you may be lucky enough to witness the glow of the Aurora Borealis.

Day 10 : The Snow Village and Khibiny Mountains

This morning, our destination is the Snow Village, which has been painstakingly constructed almost entirely out of ice and snow and features ornately decorated buildings, sculptures and labyrinthine tunnels. The afternoon sees a change of pace, with the chance to carve it up on an easy snowmobile safari in the Khibiny Mountains. Don't forget to look up for Aurora's dance in the sky.

Day 11 : Saami Settlement

Head to one of the largest Saami settlements in the Kola Peninsula, where many traditional dwellings are still in use. You’ll get the chance to learn about the ancient Saami culture. In the afternoon, we proceed to Murmansk.

Day 12 : Murmansk City Tour

Today you’ll see how people live, work and play in Murmansk, the northernmost city and Russia. Your Murmansk sightseeing trip will take in the Naval Museum or the Historical Museum, and the world’s first nuclear icebreaker ship, the Lenin. Spend your free evening discovering the surprisingly vibrant nightlife in this quirky Russian outpost. As this is your last night in the Arctic, don’t forget to look up!

Day 13 : Departure From Murmansk

After breakfast, it’s time to check out of our Murmansk hotel. You’ll be transferred to the airport to catch a flight back to either Moscow or on to your next destination.

• Sightseeing
• Accommodation
• Centrally located 3* hotels (twin/double occupancy), can be upgraded to 4* or 5*:
• Ibis Centre Bakhrushina, Moscow, 4 nights
• Ibis Centre, St Petersburg, 5 nights
• Pushkaraskya Sloboda, Suzdal, 1 night
• Breakfasts in the hotels, lunches during tour of Golden Ring cities
• Transportation
• Airport and train station arrival and departure transfers
• All transportation on tour, according to the itinerary (car, metro)
• Sapsan train tickets from Moscow to St Petersburg (economy+)
• Local English-speaking tour leaders, licensed professional guides for sightseeing, professional driver
• Activities and sights
• All activities indicated in the itinerary, except optional.
• Entry tickets, according to the itinerary (slip the line policy)
• Download the detailed itinerary for more information.
• Russian visa support documents.
• Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only).
• Services of the guide from the Polar Geophysical Institute (PGI) for observing Aurora Borealis.
• Flights, travel insurance, visa, tips

Price & Rates

* Mentioned prices may vary depending upon date of travel, hotel availability, surge pricing and seasonal rush.

Package Start From

• Moscow, Russia, Europe

Terms & Conditions

Payment Terms & Methods : * Some Advance Percentage of total booking amount * Airfare/Transport fare to be paid full at one time in advance.

Cancellation & Refund Policy : * Upon cancellation, refund will be made after deducting the Retention Amount. * Retention Amount varies as per the number of days left before your package start date.

This Tour is Offered by

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• Level 1, 55 Grafton St, Bondi Junction, New South Wales, Australia - 2022
• XXXXXX7785 View Contact
• [email protected] View Mail ID

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Rs. 2,98,200 PP

• Offices : Level 1, 55 Grafton St, Bondi Junction, New South Wales, Australia - 2022

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