The James W. Dalton Highway, which is known as the Dalton Highway, is a dirt, gravel and partially paved highway that runs south from Prudhoe Bay at the Arctic Ocean to Livengood, Alaska. It provides access to the Trans-Alaska pipeline, and it is a supply route for truckers going to the oil fields. It is open to the public, so as a result, it provides the average person with access to some of the most remote wilderness in the United States.
Remote Wilderness
The road is not for the faint of heart nor is it really a tourist destination. The gift is the scenery and remote wilderness.
Be prepared if you decide to travel the road. There is almost no cell or internet service along the Dalton Highway. In other words, there are few ways to get help.
Renting a satellite phone is probably a good idea just in case of an emergency.
Yukon River Camp
Few Amenities
Major stops along the route for fuel are the Yukon River Camp, Coldfoot Camp, and Deadhorse. You can eat a great meal at the Yukon River Camp. In addition to the usual, they serve salmon cakes sourced from the Yukon River on homemade rolls. Although the road supports the pipeline, expect to pay at least double for fuel.
Near Atigun Pass
Parks & Refuges
The James W. Dalton Highway crosses the Brooks Range and Continental Divide at Atigun Pass. Although probably difficult to travel when snow covered, the pass is only around 4700 ft,
Two major protected areas border the highway and cover almost 800 miles of the Brooks Range. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is on the west side. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is on the east side, and extends to the Canadian Border. Both protect millions of acres of pristine wilderness. With the exception of the Dalton Highway, they are only accessible by bush plane.
Perspective: Dalton Highway
Impact
I am sure that there are mixed feelings from environmentalists regarding the pipeline and the Dalton Highway. Environmental impact of man-made structures is always a hot topic. The picture here is from a 3250’ peak along the highway and pipeline corridor. As you can see, the pipeline and road are a minor ribbon in a vast landscape.
Final Thoughts
Is Deadhorse, where the drilling occurs, an eye sore? Of course. I did not take a picture because there is nothing there except work buildings. People use a lot of energy. As a result, concessions must be made to balance energy needs and environmental impact. For me, the pipeline and road are not a problem. They are a gift of access to pristine wilderness. If you are interested in protecting the wilderness, be informed. Take a trip to one of the most pristine areas in the US. Don’t count on photos and others’ accounts to inform your decisions and perspective.
References:
Personal adventure
Pristine wilderness, no photo edits
