Denali highway

[applegater]

Anyone driven theDenali Highway in the last couple of weeks? How is its condition, Alaska 511 doesn't mention anything.

[applegater]

It was very nice scenery, saw some animals , dry camped one night. Road was in fair condition, they were sharpening the rocks in a couple of stretches, all in all fine but no better or maybe a little worse than the haul road when we drove it in 2010.

[ace44]

I have to agree with PA12DRVR, some of the best scenery. It is our favorite place to hang out. Never count on Paxson having gas, it is hit or miss. Cantwell has 2 stations operating now, so gas on the west side shouldn't be any problem. Here is my favorite picture from the highway.

[lizzie]

We drove it west to east on July 6 and 7. It was fine. We dry camped and on the 7th woke up to rain and cold but it was still beautiful. There was no gas at Paxton as the tanks were being replaced. I consider the Denali Highway to be one of the best of our Alaskan experiences. Wouldn't miss it for the world. lizzie

[PA12DRVR]

FWIW, the scenery on the Denali is (IMNSHO) some of the best in the state. I believe it is slightly better going West to East, but it's nice either way.

Worth seeing in my opinion, even if some dirt is involved. Not a drive to be hurried.

[applegater]

Thanks for the info. We got quite a shower in Tok last night, wouldn't be surprised if part of the Denali highway got some as well. Guess we'll wait a day or so. TOW was good yesterday.

[sue_t]

Being a gravel road, its condition depends greatly on recent weather.

If it has been dry and warm, then it will be a typical gravel road ... some dust and some potholes, with washboard now and then.

If it has been wet, add mud and grime to the mix. :B

The gravel roads in the north don't vary much year-to-year.

[alaskan-rver]

Try calling the Alpine Creek Lodge at 907-743-0565. They are located near the midpoint of the highway. They should be able to give you a road report.