Driving to the ARCTIC CIRCLE: The Dempster Highway Nearly Destroyed Our Van

Overview

Steven and Lauren recount driving the Dempster Highway as part of an 81-day, 16,000-mile journey from Florida to the Arctic Ocean. The route passes through striking wilderness and remote landscapes, but they warn that it can be hard on vehicles and risky because help and communication are limited.

Highlights and Advice

• Before leaving Dawson City, gather route information, stock up on food and water, and fill the fuel tank. The hosts say travelers may have little contact with the outside world for days.
• Make time for Tombstone Territorial Park, which they describe as one of the trip’s best scenic stops.
• Expect rough, muddy conditions, wildlife, mosquitoes, and limited assistance. Their van got two flat tires, and they had trouble finding a mechanic at Eagle Plains.
• Prepare for tire trouble by carrying at least one spare and supplies to repair and inflate a tire. Their full checklist is in the video description.
• Eagle Plains is the only service stop they mention along a long stretch of the route, and its fuel and repair options may be limited.
• In the Northwest Territories, the road crosses two rivers by ferry. Ferry breakdowns can strand travelers. If avoiding that risk is a priority, the hosts advise turning back before the first crossing.
• Inuvik is the last major stop before the drive across the tundra to Tuktoyaktuk. Refuel and consider showering before continuing.
• Tuktoyaktuk is not presented as a polished tourist destination, but the hosts felt that reaching the Arctic Ocean made the difficult drive worthwhile. Remember that the same route must be driven back.

Notable Locations

Dawson City, Tombstone Territorial Park, Eagle Plains, the Northwest Territories ferry crossings, Inuvik, Tuktoyaktuk, and the Arctic Ocean.

Speakers

Steven and Lauren.