Driving the scenic Klondike Highway from Alaska to the Yukon

Driving the scenic Klondike Highway from Alaska to the Yukon

Canada, north-america

Length

708 km

Elevation

1,010 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Get ready for the legendary Klondike Highway, a 708km (440 mile) paved adventure that links the charming Alaskan town of Skagway to Yukon's historic Dawson City, ground zero of the Klondike Gold Rush. Opened in 1979, this route basically retraces the steps of those intrepid 1898 gold prospectors!

Split into the South Klondike Highway (Skagway to Whitehorse) and the North Klondike Highway (Whitehorse to Dawson City), this road trip is a north-south stunner, running from coastal Alaska all the way to the Yukon River.

Be warned, though: this drive is remote and weather can be a factor. You'll encounter some seriously steep sections, with gradients hitting 11% in places! The highest point is White Pass, near the border, topping out at 1,010m (3,313ft). It’s usually open year-round and you will share it with big trucks hauling various commodities.

Allow 8.5 to 10 hours of driving time *without* stops. But trust me, you'll want to stop! Picture this: stunning alpine scenery, snow-capped peaks, and landscapes so unique you'll feel like you're the only person on Earth. Keep an eye out for gorgeous lakes and remnants of old mining structures, a testament to the region's rich history.

Where is it?

Driving the scenic Klondike Highway from Alaska to the Yukon is located in Canada (north-america). Coordinates: 57.3808, -104.6381

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Road Details

Country
Canada
Continent
north-america
Length
708 km
Max Elevation
1,010 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
57.3808, -104.6381

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