Driving the Al-Can

The Alaska Canada Highway, or Al-Can, traverses a vast wilderness in a remote expanse of North America, from Mile 0 in Dawson Creek, BC all the way through the Canadian Rockies and Yukon Territory, 1422 miles to Delta Junction, AK.

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On our ultimate road trip home last summer from Alaska, we picked up the Al-Can in Tok, AK on our way out of the great state. Although an exhilarating and ultimate road trippin' experience lay ahead of us, one of the toughest days I've ever had was crossing that border...

Day 2: We spent the night in Whitehorse, Yukon with friends.

Day 3: We had a picnic lunch at Watson Lake, Yukon, spending a few minutes walking through the Sign Post Forest to take in the thousands of other travellers that have been on the same exhilartating adventure as us.

We camped at Liard Hot Springs Provincial Park in northern British Columbia, enjoying a much needed soak in the hot springs.

Day 4: We stopped in Muncho Lake, BC to fill up the tank, a pricey $2/L! The usual turquoise colours of the lake muted by the rain.

We saw wildlife galore - from black and brown bears, to stone sheep, bison, coyote, caribou and more.

We passed the Mile 0 sign in Dawson Creek, BC, stopping to only snap a few shots, give a quick high five, and continue on our 4500 mile journey...

And we can't forget about this little guy, who did the entire ride with us, whether he liked it or not.

Some frequently asked questions:

How long will it take?

Plan on driving for about 5 days, at 7-8 hours each day, with limited stops but plenty of scenery and wildlife to view. Make sure you have a good camera to document the adventure.

Is the road paved?

When the road was originally constructed in 1948, it was a mixture of gravel and dirt. Nowadays it is completely paved. But, that does not mean it doesn't still present its challenges. In some parts it is fairly windy through the mountains and there is no guardrail to hold you back. In other parts the harsh weather and freeze/thaw cycle has taken its toll on the road, with frost heaves creating a bumpy ride that can do some damage to your car if you're not careful. In the summer road construction is ongoing, so be prepared for some stoppages.

What kind of car should I drive?

Whatever kind you want. We saw cars, trucks, suvs, trailers, vehicles pulling trailers and motorcycles. The most important thing is to make sure it is in good shape, including the tires. We took ours for a check up before we left to be sure. The last thing you want is to break down in the middle of nowhere.

Do cell phones work?

Be prepared for some stretches with no cell or satellite reception. This also goes for satellite radio. 

How far apart are services?

Fuel, food and lodging can usually be found in the small towns you'll come across. But be prepared to go at least 150 miles without seeing a gas station. Pay attention to your gas tank and fill up when you see a pump, even if it's to top off the tank. Also, be prepared to pay more for services.

Extra tips:

This road trip definitely requires some planning. If you're feeling adventurous and want to experience the Al-Can for yourself, please invest in the Milepost. This is the bible of all Alaska/Alberta/BC/Yukon/Northwest Territory road trips and marks every stop, including things to see, gas, lodging, campgrounds, etc. 

Do you enjoy taking road trips? What's your most memorable road trippin' experience?

Linking up with A Compass Rose for Travel Tuesday.