Dempster Highway Road Trip

The Dempster Highway Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through the ruggedly beautiful Yukon and Northwest Territories of Canada. Starting in Dawson City, the 774 km route takes you through the Klondike Junction and up to Inuvik. Along the way, you will be surrounded by breathtaking sights of snow-capped mountains, tundra, boreal forests, and the Arctic Circle. The best time of year to drive the Dempster Highway is between May and September, when the road is open. Although the route is suitable for any driver, the road conditions can be challenging. The gravel surface is rough and uneven in places, and the road may become impassable due to weather conditions during the winter months. As such, it is recommended that you plan your trip for the warmer months of the year. The Dempster Highway Road Trip is an unforgettable experience, but it does come with a high budget. With the right preparation, however, you can make the most of this incredible journey.

Dawson City, located in the Yukon Territory of Canada, is the perfect starting point for a road trip along the Dempster Highway. The immediate area surrounding Dawson City is full of interesting sights, including the Jack London Museum, the S.S. Keno, and the Palace Grand Theatre. Heading north, the Dempster Highway provides some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, with the boreal forest, tundra, and winding rivers. The nearest international airport is located in Whitehorse, YT (YXY) where car rentals can be found. The drive from Whitehorse to Dawson City is around 4 hours and is a great way to take in the scenery and experience the vastness of the Yukon. Taking a road trip along the Dempster Highway is an excellent way to gain an appreciation for the beauty of the Yukon, and Dawson City is the perfect starting point. From Dawson City, travelers can experience the majesty and splendor of the boreal forest and tundra, and take in the sights and sounds of the Yukon.

Welcome to the Dawson City - Dempster/Klondike Junction road trip stage! On this 40 km stretch, you will get to experience the beauty of the Yukon in less than an hour. Take in the stunning views of the rolling hills and snow-capped peaks as you drive along this historic route. Start your journey in Dawson City, the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush. Here, you can visit the iconic Jack London Cabin, the Dawson City Museum, and the Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall. Continue your road trip to Dempster/Klondike Junction, where you can explore the Dempster Highway and the Tombstone Territorial Park. Here, you can also find the Midnight Dome, a great spot for camping and wildlife viewing. Be sure to take in the sights and sounds of the Yukon wilderness as you drive along this route. Look out for historical sites, scenic roads, and interesting attractions along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Dempster/Klondike Junction to Inuvik, a 734 km journey that will take you fewer than 19 hours to complete. This route is perfect for those looking for an adventure, with plenty of scenic views and wildlife sightings along the way. Be sure to take a 4WD car, as some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. As you travel, don’t forget to stop at the Arctic Red River, where you can take a short hike and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the town of Fort McPherson, which is known for its traditional Inuvialuit culture, and check out the local shops and restaurants. Further along the route, you’ll pass by the village of Tsiigehtchic, where you can explore the local heritage and learn about the area’s history. Make sure to also stop in Inuvik, where you can take a stroll along the Mackenzie River and visit the Inuvik Regional Visitors Centre to learn more about the region. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage. This is the perfect road trip for those looking for an adventure, so start planning your trip today!

Inuvik in Canada is the perfect ending point for the Dempster Highway Road Trip. Situated in the Northwest Territories on the banks of the Mackenzie River, Inuvik is the gateway to Canada’s Arctic. Once you’ve arrived in Inuvik, explore its colorful streets lined with Arctic-inspired art and architecture. Visit the Igloo Church, an iconic landmark made entirely of snow blocks, and the Northern Lights Space and Science Centre, where you can learn about the Aurora Borealis. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir, stop by the Inuvik Arts Centre and browse the selection of artwork created by local craftspeople. You can also visit the Inuvik Petroleum Showcase to learn about the history of oil and gas exploration in the region. Adventure-seekers can also take part in a variety of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. The region is also home to some of Canada’s best fishing spots, where you can try your luck at catching Arctic Grayling, Lake Trout, and Whitefish. If you’re traveling by air, the closest international airport is Edmonton International Airport (YEG). Inuvik is the perfect destination to end your Dempster Highway Road Trip and discover the beauty of Canada’s Arctic. With its unique art and culture, outdoor activities, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Inuvik is a must-see destination for any traveler.

Before you set off

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the rugged wilderness of northern Canada on the Dempster Highway Road Trip. Spanning 774 km (480 miles), this route begins in the historical Dawson City, Yukon, and stretches all the way to the remote town of Inuvik, Northwest Territories. Along the way, travelers are treated to a vast array of breathtaking landscapes including vast mountains, dense boreal forests, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Arctic Circle.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

This epic adventure offers Roadtrippers the chance to delve into the rich history of Dawson City, with its storied past of the Klondike Gold Rush. Beyond the city, the journey continues past the junction with the iconic Klondike Highway and ventures into the heart of the Yukon's pristine natural beauty. As you traverse this northern frontier, highlights include the dramatic Tombstone Territorial Park, known for its jagged peaks and diverse wildlife; the Ogilvie and Richardson Mountains, offering stunning panoramic views; and the remarkable experience of crossing the Arctic Circle, where you can witness the midnight sun or the mystical aurora borealis depending on the season.

Best Time to Go:

The prime months for this Road Trip are from May to September when the days are long and the weather is most favorable for travel. During this period, the highway is accessible and not hindered by the severe winter conditions that can make it treacherous or even impassable.

Potential Risks:

Navigating the Dempster Highway comes with its own set of challenges, including a predominantly gravel Road surface which can be rough and unpredictable. Weather conditions can change swiftly, bringing rain, snow, or fog, which can reduce visibility and Road stability. Given the route's isolated nature, services such as gas stations, repair shops, and accommodations are few and far between, underscoring the importance of preparation and self-reliance.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Dempster Highway is the only public Road in Canada that crosses the Arctic Circle.
• It is built over permafrost, and special engineering techniques were used to ensure its stability despite the shifting ground.
• The highway is named after William John Duncan Dempster, a Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer who frequently traveled the trail by dog team in the early 20th century to deliver the mail.

A good choice for:

The Dempster Highway Road Trip is a thrilling excursion for those with a spirit of adventure and a desire to connect with the untouched splendor of Canada's northern territories. With conscientious planning and a resilient spirit, travelers can revel in the staggering beauty and cultural richness of one of the most unique Road Trips on the planet.