How long is the Top of the World Highway?
Canada, north-america
131 km
1,274 m
moderate
Year-round
Ready for an epic road trip between Alaska and Canada? The Top of the World Highway is calling your name! This 131km (81 mile) route is a wild ride that connects the area near Jack Wade, Alaska, to Dawson City, Yukon – the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush.
Built back in '55, it's one of the most northerly highways around, but fair warning: it's mostly unpaved these days. It was all smooth tarmac in the late 90s, but Mother Nature had other plans, so about half is gravel now. Expect a narrow track, the occasional pothole, washboard surfaces, and sometimes, zero shoulder.
Heads up: this highway is a seasonal sweetheart, open from late spring to early fall, mirroring the Dawson City ferry's schedule. You'll hit a high point of 1,274m (4,179ft) near the border at Little Gold Creek, then peak again at 1,314m (4,311ft) on the Canadian side. The border crossing is open May-September, 9am-9pm Yukon time (8am-8pm Alaska time) – miss it and you're stuck!
Is it challenging? You bet! Mountain road experience is a must. Think tight turns and slippery conditions when it rains. Watch out for soft shoulders and a serious lack of guardrails. Also, double-check with your rental company, as not all vehicles are allowed on this route. Traffic is usually light, so if someone's behind you, be a good sport and let them pass.
Why "Top of the World"? Because you'll be cruising along the crest of the hills, with killer views dropping into the valleys below.
Budget about 2.5 hours without stops, but trust me, you'll want to stop. Fall is especially gorgeous. The road winds along the mountaintops, giving you those views that seem to stretch on forever.
Unlike most highways that hug the valleys, this one takes the high road, offering exhilarating scenery. Take your time and soak it all in. You'll be driving along mountain peaks and crests for most of the way, with those incredible valley views beneath you.
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 131 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,274 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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