Planning a road trip on the Alaska Highway through Yukon, Canada? Discover the best stops, scenic views, and travel tips for this unforgettable northern drive.
🛣️ Introduction
The Alaska Highway is one of North America’s most iconic road trips — and the stretch through Yukon might just be the most breathtaking part of the journey.
With endless wilderness, quirky roadside towns, and wide-open skies, driving the Alaska Highway in Yukon is an adventure filled with beauty, history, and freedom.
Here’s everything you need to plan an unforgettable Yukon road trip.
📍 What is the Alaska Highway?
Also known as the Alcan, the Alaska Highway runs from Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction, Alaska — a total of over 2,200 kilometers (1,370 miles).
The Yukon portion covers roughly 900 km, winding through forests, mountains, rivers, and remote towns.
🚘 Top Stops Along the Alaska Highway in Yukon
1. Watson Lake
📍 Km 980
Known for the Sign Post Forest, where travelers from around the world leave license plates and signs — a must-stop selfie spot.
🛠️ Also home to the Northern Lights Centre, with aurora science exhibits and a planetarium-style dome.
2. Teslin
📍 Km 1240
A picturesque village along Teslin Lake with strong Tlingit First Nation heritage.
🖼️ Stop at the George Johnston Museum to learn about local culture and history.
🌉 The Teslin River Bridge is one of the longest on the highway — great for photos.
3. Whitehorse
📍 Km 1420
The capital of Yukon is a great place to rest, refuel, and explore. Plan to stay at least a day.
Highlights:
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SS Klondike paddle steamer
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Miles Canyon hike
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Great local food and coffee
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Grocery stores and gear shops for road trip resupply
4. Haines Junction
📍 Km 1635
Gateway to Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering peaks and glaciers.
🥾 Don’t miss hikes like King’s Throne Trail or scenic views at Kathleen Lake.
🧁 Stop at Village Bakery for fresh pastries and local music (seasonal).
5. Destruction Bay & Kluane Lake
📍 Km 1700
Drive along Kluane Lake, Yukon’s largest lake, with sweeping mountain views and frequent wildlife sightings.
🎣 Fishing, photography, and camping are popular here.
⛺ Consider staying at Congdon Creek Campground — beautiful and remote.
6. Beaver Creek
📍 Km 1870
The last Yukon town before the Alaska border. Small but scenic, with a friendly welcome at the Visitor Information Centre.
🗺️ From here, you continue into Alaska — don’t forget your passport!
🐻 Wildlife Watching on the Alaska Highway
You’re almost guaranteed to see wildlife on this drive — especially early in the morning or late in the evening.
Look out for:
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🐻 Black bears
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🦌 Moose
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🦬 Bison (particularly between Watson Lake and Liard River)
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🦅 Eagles and hawks
Always pull over safely to take photos — and never feed or approach wild animals.
⛽ Gas, Services & Supplies
Important: Some stretches of the highway have long distances between fuel stations.
📌 Fill up in major stops like:
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Watson Lake
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Teslin
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Whitehorse
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Haines Junction
🧻 Bring extra food, water, and a first aid kit. Cell service can be spotty, so download maps ahead of time.
🏕️ Where to Camp or Stay Overnight
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🛏️ Hotels & motels: Available in Whitehorse, Watson Lake, Teslin, and Beaver Creek
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🏕️ Territorial campgrounds: Affordable and scenic, often with firewood included
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🛻 RV pullouts & rest stops: Great for quick overnights
📝 Tip: During summer, book ahead or arrive early — especially in popular areas.
🌤️ Best Time to Drive the Alaska Highway
| Month | Highlights |
|---|---|
| May–June | Fewer crowds, spring wildlife |
| July–August | Warm weather, everything open |
| September | Beautiful fall colors, quieter roads |
| October+ | Snow risk begins; some services close |
☀️ Expect long daylight hours in summer — perfect for extra driving or hiking time.
🛠️ Alaska Highway Travel Tips
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🧭 Bring paper maps — GPS may not always work
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🔧 Have a spare tire, jack, and emergency supplies
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💳 Carry cash — some remote areas don’t take cards
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🐾 Keep trash secure to avoid attracting wildlife
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🚿 Bring wet wipes — restrooms can be rustic
🌟 Conclusion
The Alaska Highway through Yukon is more than a route — it’s a journey through some of the wildest, most beautiful landscapes in Canada. Whether you’re traveling by RV, car, or motorcycle, you’ll find open roads, friendly people, and unforgettable moments.
So fuel up, grab your camera, and let the highway lead you into the heart of the Yukon wilderness.
