Yes, you can drive to Alaska from the U.S. mainland, but you must pass through Canada.
The most common route follows the Alaska Highway (ALCAN), which stretches 1,390 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska. o
From Seattle, the total trip to Anchorage is about 2,250 miles and usually takes 5 to 7 days.
If you are planning the drive in 2026, this guide explains everything clearly: routes, mileage breakdown, passport rules, firearm regulations, fuel planning, seasonal driving conditions, RV travel, and total trip cost.
Quick Answer Table (For Fast Planning)
| Question | Short Answer |
| Can I drive to Alaska? | Yes, via Canada |
| Main Route | Alaska Highway (ALCAN) |
| Distance from Seattle | ~2,250 miles |
| Driving Time | 40–50 hours |
| Passport Required? | Yes |
| Best Time to Go | Late May–September |
| Estimated Total Cost | $900–$2,500+ |
Step-by-Step Route Breakdown
There is only one practical land route.
1️⃣ U.S. to Canada Border Crossing
Most common crossings:
- Washington → British Columbia
- Montana → Alberta
You must enter Canada to reach Alaska by road.
2️⃣ British Columbia Segment
Seattle → Vancouver: 140 miles
Vancouver → Prince George: 480 miles
Prince George → Dawson Creek: 250 miles
Dawson Creek is Mile 0 of the Alaska Highway.
3️⃣ Alaska Highway (ALCAN)
Distance: 1,390 miles
Start: Dawson Creek, BC
End: Delta Junction, AK
Major stops:
- Fort Nelson
- Watson Lake
- Whitehorse (Yukon)
- Tok (Alaska)
Driving Time From Major U.S. Cities
| Starting City | Approx Distance to Anchorage | Recommended Travel Days |
| Seattle | 2,250 miles | 5–7 days |
| Los Angeles | 3,300+ miles | 6–9 days |
| Denver | 3,300 miles | 6–8 days |
| Chicago | 3,900 miles | 7–10 days |
| Texas (Dallas) | 3,800+ miles | 7–10 days |
Do You Need a Passport to Drive to Alaska?
Yes.
Even though Alaska is a U.S. state, you must cross into Canada. You need:
- Valid passport
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance valid in Canada
REAL ID alone is not enough.
Firearms and Canada Border Rules (2026 Reminder)
Canada has strict firearm laws.
Important:
- Handguns are heavily restricted.
- Some firearms are prohibited.
- You must declare firearms.
Failure to declare can result in confiscation and penalties.
Always review current Canadian border regulations before departure.
How Much Does It Cost to Drive to Alaska?
Costs vary based on vehicle type, fuel economy, and lodging style.
Fuel Planning by MPG (2,250 Mile Example)
| MPG | Fuel Needed | Estimated Cost ($4–$6/gal range) |
| 25 MPG | 90 gallons | $360–$540 |
| 18 MPG | 125 gallons | $500–$750 |
| 12 MPG (RV) | 190 gallons | $760–$1,140 |
Fuel in remote Canada can be higher than U.S. averages.
Lodging Costs (Per Night Estimate)
| Type | Average Cost |
| Budget Motel | $100–$150 |
| Mid-Range Hotel | $150–$250 |
| RV Park | $30–$60 |
| Campground | $15–$40 |
Estimated Total Trip Budget
| Travel Style | Estimated Total Cost |
| Budget Camper | $900–$1,500 |
| Standard Hotel Trip | $1,500–$2,500+ |
Best Time to Drive to Alaska
Summer (Late May – September)
Best overall conditions:
- Long daylight hours
- Road construction is manageable
- Wildlife visibility
- Full tourist services open
Peak season: June and July
Fall (September)
- Fewer crowds
- Cooler weather
- Some services close
Winter (November – March)
Possible but risky:
- Snow and ice
- Extreme cold
- Limited services
- Long remote stretches
Winter driving is only recommended for experienced drivers.
Is the Alaska Highway Fully Paved?
Yes, mostly paved.
However:
- Frost heaves occur
- Construction zones are common in the summer
- Wildlife frequently crosses roads
RV Driving to Alaska
The Alaska Highway is RV-friendly.
Advantages:
- Flexible stops
- Lower lodging cost
- Scenic camping
Challenges:
- Higher fuel use
- Narrow shoulders
- Limited repair services in remote areas
Cell Service and Internet Coverage
Expect long stretches without cell service.
Download:
- Offline maps
- Emergency numbers
- Printed route backup
Wildlife and Safety Considerations
Common wildlife:
- Moose
- Black bears
- Caribou
- Bison
Drive carefully at dusk and dawn.
Carry:
- Emergency kit
- Spare tire
- Extra fluids
- Water supply
Common Mistakes People Make
- Not filling up gas frequently
- Driving at night in wildlife zones
- Ignoring firearm rules
- Underestimating distances between towns
- Not checking vehicle condition
Preparation determines safety.
Ferry Alternative Option
The Alaska Marine Highway system allows vehicle ferry transport from Washington to Southeast Alaska.
Pros:
- Scenic coastal route
- Avoid Canadian road driving
Cons:
- Expensive
- Long transit time
- Limited scheduling
Many travelers combine ferry + driving.
Final Answer
Yes, you can drive to Alaska from the U.S. mainland by traveling through Canada via the Alaska Highway. The trip covers approximately 2,200+ miles from Seattle and typically takes 5 to 7 days. With proper documentation, vehicle preparation, and seasonal planning, it is a safe and scenic journey.
FAQs
Can you drive to Alaska without going through Canada?
No. All land routes require entering Canada.
How long does it take?
40–50 driving hours minimum. Plan 5–7 days.
Is the drive dangerous?
Not inherently, but preparation is critical.
Do I need winter tires?
Recommended if traveling outside the summer.
Is it worth driving?
For many travelers, the scenery and experience are worth it.
