Dawson Creek | Alaska Highway Mile 0 Post

One of the epic drives we have ever done was travelling the full length of the Alaska Highway. Also known as the Alaska-Canadian Highway or ALCAN Highway. It starts from Dawson creek, British Columbia,  Canada and runs all the way to Delta Junction, Alaska via Whitehorse in Yukon province. Dawson Creek is the home of the famous Alaska Highway Mile 0 Post.

In the heights of World war II, the US government commissioned to build the historic highway. Though the highway is paved now, its infamous for its rough and challenging drives. In spite of the roads being upgraded often, there are many stretches with chuckholes, gravel breaks, deteriorated shoulders, bumps and frost heaves.

Mile 0 Signpost

We drove about 2360 miles (3800 kms) to reach the start point of this legendary highway at Dawson creek, British Columbia along with our self built trailer. We were so excited to see the Mile post “0” of the Alaskan Highway. Its a great photo op to capture the start of the adventurous journey.

Alaska Highway House

The location of the museum right next to the Mile 0 post. They have a very neat collection of exhibits which is very informative and interesting. We were a little skeptical about watching the 1 hour movie, but it was so much worth the time. It explains in complete details about the stringent timelines the complete project had. Also how difficult of a task the construction turned out to be due to the challenging terrain and weather conditions.

Driving on the Canadian part of ALCAN is specifically difficult since we had absolutely no cell phone coverage after crossing Dawson Creek. We had AT&T connection from the US. If you have Canadian services (Bell and Telus), you will get phone signal at people inhabited places such as Fort Nelson, Whitehorse, but not throughout the highway. On the other hand, all these small towns have visitor center that has free wi-fi, free coffee and clean restrooms which was especially very useful. The staffs are very friendly and ready to give any information you need about road or weather.  Free wifi was very useful for us to work or look for something. Only downside to this is they are open only until 5 pm.

The Milepost guide book

With no cellphone coverage, it is inconvenient without being able to look up any information about gas stations, campgrounds etc. Luckily, a guide book was our lifesaver for one too many times. “The MilePost” is the bible for navigating the entire drive. A new version is released every year with current road conditions, places to stay, fuel, campgrounds, scenic view points, attractions etc. It has all the information you would ever need and more!Without a doubt, we recommend to get the Milepost if you have plans to drive this highway or any parts of Alaska, Yukon, BC, Alberta & Northwestern territories.

Here is the link to the book – THE MILEPOST 

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