Driving the Denali Highway
The Denali Highway runs about 135 miles east across the tundra between Cantwell, near Denali National Park, and Paxson on the Richardson Highway. It’s mostly gravel, it has almost no services, and it’s one of the most beautiful drives in Alaska. It was once the only road to the park. Now it’s the way to see the interior with almost nobody else around.
Before you go
- It’s a summer road. The highway isn’t maintained in winter. It’s usually open from late spring to early fall, so check road conditions before you set out.
- Check your rental agreement. Many rental companies don’t allow their cars on gravel roads like this one. Driving it anyway can void your cover if something goes wrong.
- Fill up first. There’s very little fuel along the way. Cantwell is your last reliable stop at the west end.
- Cell coverage is patchy. Download maps before you leave and tell someone your plans.
The best stretch for a day trip
You don’t need to drive the whole thing. From Cantwell, the first few dozen miles east give you most of the reasons people love it: the Alaska Range on the horizon, the Nenana River valley, kettle ponds scattered across the tundra, and long views in every direction. Drive out until you’re ready for lunch, then turn around and enjoy the views the other way.
Go slowly. The gravel is fine at a sensible speed, but there are potholes, washboard and the odd caribou standing in the road.
When to go
- June and July. Long days, wildflowers, and the most birds on the ponds. Mosquitoes too.
- Late August. The tundra turns red, gold and orange in a matter of days. Many people think it’s the best time of the year to see it.
With kids
It’s a long day in a vehicle, so build in stops. Short walks onto the tundra (it’s spongy and fun to bounce on), a game of spotting ducks on the ponds, and a picnic with a view all help. Bring motion sickness tablets for anyone who needs them: the road isn’t twisty, but it’s bumpy.
What to bring
- A full tank of fuel and a full-size spare tire
- Food and water for the day, plus extra
- Layers, rain jackets and bug spray
- Binoculars for caribou, moose and birds
- A paper map
Or let us drive
Our Denali Highway Day takes the gravel so you don’t have to, with stops for the lookouts, a walk to a kettle pond and a picnic lunch.