Top of the World Highway in Alaska 2025

A scenic drive between the United States and Canada

Best time: May–mid-September

This mountain road with extensive panoramic views fully lives up to its name. The Top of the World Highway begins near Jack Wade, Alaska, USA and then runs eastward to the ferry terminal in West Dawson, Yukon, Canada. This 127-km (79-mi) long road has been in use since the 1950s. It is open only during summer months from May to mid-September, since in the winter time, driving there is considered dangerous even for snowmobiles.

The Top of the World Highway is among the most northern highways on the planet. The scenic highway winds along the mountain tops offering breathtaking views. There are also relics of the Gold Rush along the route that are worth to discover, in particular, the historic dredges near the town of Chicken. The Alaskan part of the highway was paved in 2016, while the Canadian section is mostly unpaved.

The U.S.-Canada border ports of entry are available at The Poker Creek/Little Gold Creek Border Crossing known as North America's northernmost international border crossing. The border crossing is open in summer from 8 am to 8 pm (Alaska time) from May to mid-September, depending on the weather conditions. Visitors can continue their journey taking the ferry from West Dawson to Dawson that runs in the summer. In winter, residents make their way to the east bank of Yukon River on ice.

Practical info

When is the Top of the World Highway open to visitors?

The Top of the World Highway can be visited during summer months, starting from May and ending in mid-September. As per authorities, the winter months pose a danger to vehicles and hence this route is not recommended.

What is the significance of the Poker Creek/Little Gold Creek Border Crossing?

The Poker Creek/Little Gold Creek Border Crossing is the northernmost international border crossing point in North America. It offers entry to the United States or Canada according to the direction of travel. The border crossing is open during summer starting from May to mid-September and can be a route to the Top of the World Highway.

What kind of historic relics can be found along the route?

Apart from the scenic views, driving by the winding mountain tops of the Top of the World Highway offers a chance to see historic relics from the Gold Rush. Travelers can explore historic dredges in the region around the Chicken border town, adding a cultural experience to their visit.

Is the Canadian section of the highway paved?

Traveling through the Canadian section of the Top of the World Highway gives visitors a unique experience as it is mostly unpaved. The Alaskan section, however, was paved in 2016, making it more comfortable for drivers but taking away the quintessential off-road driving experience.

Where can visitors take the ferry from West Dawson to?

The ferry at West Dawson opens in the summer months and ferries visitors to Dawson. In winter, people living in Eastbank can make their way to the other side of the Yukon River via the frozen river ice. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the Yukon River Valley during the ferry ride and continue their journey along the Top of the World Highway.