What is the official name and designation of the Dalton Highway, and what is its total length?

The highway is officially known as the James W. Dalton Highway, and it is designated as Alaska Route 11. It stretches for a total of 414 miles (666 kilometers).

Where does the Dalton Highway begin and end, and what significant geographical features are near its northern terminus?

The Dalton Highway begins at the Elliott Highway, north of Fairbanks, Alaska, and concludes at Deadhorse, an unincorporated community near the Arctic Ocean and the Prudhoe Bay Oil Fields. Deadhorse is within the CDP of Prudhoe Bay.

What was the original primary purpose for the construction of the Dalton Highway?

The Dalton Highway was originally built in 1974 to serve as a supply road supporting the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System.

Who is the James W. Dalton Highway named after, and what were his contributions?

The highway is named after James W. Dalton, who was a lifelong Alaskan and an engineer. He supervised the construction of the Distant Early Warning Line in Alaska and served as a consultant for early oil exploration in northern Alaska, particularly in Arctic engineering.

What is the approximate surface composition of the Dalton Highway?

The Dalton Highway is primarily a gravel road, with approximately three-quarters of its length being gravel and one-quarter being paved.

What historical event led to the initial planning of a road to the North Slope, and what was its name?

In 1966, Governor Walter J. Hickel opened the North Slope to oil extraction, which prompted the planning of a road to improve access to the oil fields. This initial road was intended to be a 400-mile winter road and was sometimes referred to as the "Walter J. Hickel Highway."

Why did the initial "Hickel Highway" construction fail and lead to its abandonment?

The construction of the "Hickel Highway" in 1968-1969 suffered from poor engineering, which exposed the underlying permafrost to thawing. This destabilized the road, leading to its abandonment by April 1969, and it was not maintained as it was west of the planned Trans-Alaska Pipeline System route.

Which entity funded the initial construction of the first segment of what would become the Dalton Highway?

Following the failure of the Hickel Highway, oil companies still required a route to the North Slope. The Alyeska Pipeline Service Company funded the construction of the first stretch of the Dalton Highway, running from Livengood to the Yukon River, starting in 1969.

When did the construction of the current Dalton Highway commence and conclude, and what was its initial name?

Construction on the current Dalton Highway resumed on April 29, 1974, and was completed within five months, building 390 miles of the road. Initially, it was known as the "Wales Highway."

When did the state of Alaska take over control of the highway, and when was it officially named the James W. Dalton Highway?

Alyeska Pipeline Service Company transferred control of the road to the state of Alaska in 1979. It was then given the official name "James W. Dalton Highway."

How was public access to the Dalton Highway phased in?

In 1981, the highway was opened to the public up to Disaster Creek at mile 211. Later, in 1994, the entire length of the highway was made accessible to the public.

How does the Dalton Highway's route relate to the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System?

The Dalton Highway runs in close proximity to, and directly parallels, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System for much of its length.

Describe the population density and settlements along the Dalton Highway.

The Dalton Highway is one of the most isolated roads in the United States. The only permanent settlements along its route are Coldfoot, with a population of 34, and Wiseman, with a population of 12. Deadhorse, at the highway's terminus, has 25 permanent residents but supports a seasonal population of 3,500 to 5,000 people, depending on oil production.

Where can travelers find fuel along the Dalton Highway?

Fuel is available at specific points along the Dalton Highway, including the E. L. Patton Yukon River Bridge (at Mile 56), Coldfoot (Mile 175), and Deadhorse (Mile 414).

What are the uninhabited locations along the Dalton Highway that may host temporary visitors?

Two uninhabited locations mentioned along the highway are Prospect Creek and Galbraith Lake. These areas are typically occupied only by campers and other short-term visitors.

What are the significant risks for travelers on the Dalton Highway, particularly for smaller vehicles?

The road is largely gravel and can be very primitive in places, posing significant risks for small vehicles and motorcycles. Travelers are advised to bring survival gear, as the nearest medical facilities are in Fairbanks and Deadhorse.

What is the typical daily truck traffic volume on the Dalton Highway during peak seasons?

The Dalton Highway experiences substantial truck traffic, with approximately 160 trucks daily during the summer months and around 250 trucks daily during the winter.

What driving precautions are recommended for all vehicles on the Dalton Highway?

All vehicles are advised to exercise extreme caution when driving on the Dalton Highway and to keep their headlights on at all times.

What is the maximum grade encountered on the Dalton Highway?

The Dalton Highway features several steep grades, with some reaching up to 12%.

What is the approximate mileage of paved sections on the Dalton Highway as of July 2013, and where are they located?

As of July 2013, 129 miles (208 km) of the Dalton Highway were paved in several distinct sections. These paved sections are located between mileages 19-24, 37-50, 91-111, 113-197, 257-261, 344-352, and 356-361.

What are some of the informal names given by truckers to features along the Dalton Highway?

Truckers have given unique names to various features along the Dalton Highway, including Taps, The Shelf, Franklin Bluffs, Oil Spill Hill, Beaver Slide, Surprise Rise, Sand Hill, Ice Cut, Gobbler's Knob, Finger Mountain, Oh Shit Corner, and the Roller Coaster.

Where is the highest point on the Dalton Highway, and what is its elevation?

The highest elevation on the Dalton Highway is reached at Atigun Pass in the Brooks Range, which stands at 4,739 feet (1,444 meters) above sea level.

What wildlife is known to be present in the Arctic region near the end of the Dalton Highway?

Polar bears are known to inhabit the Arctic region of Alaska and have been observed wandering near Deadhorse, at the terminus of the Dalton Highway.

What natural events can cause significant disruptions and closures on the Dalton Highway?

The Dalton Highway is susceptible to closures caused by floodings of the Sagavanirktok River, often exacerbated by the melting of nearby ice roads under warmer climatic conditions. These events can necessitate extensive repairs costing millions of dollars.

How did the state address the threat of a debris flow known as 'the blob' to a section of the Dalton Highway in 2018?

In 2018, a 4,000-foot section of the Dalton Highway was relocated to avoid a debris flow called 'the blob.' This lobe of dirt, ice, and trees moves at approximately 15 feet per year and threatened to engulf the road. Truckers were rerouted to a new gravel road to bypass the immediate threat, with further relocation anticipated in the future.

What is the significance of the Dalton Highway's northern terminus at Deadhorse?

The northern terminus of the Dalton Highway at Deadhorse is notable for being the northernmost point of the western hemisphere's road network. Beyond this point, roads are privately owned by oil companies and restricted to authorized vehicles.

What is the elevation and geographical significance of Atigun Pass on the Dalton Highway?

Atigun Pass, located in the Brooks Range, is the highest point on the Dalton Highway at an elevation of 4,739 feet (1,444 meters). It also marks a significant watershed divide; rivers south of the pass flow towards the Pacific Ocean or Bering Sea, while rivers north of it flow into the Arctic Ocean.

What is the historical significance of Prospect Creek in relation to temperature records in the United States?

Prospect Creek, accessible via an access road from the Dalton Highway, is noted as the location where the lowest temperature ever recorded in the United States occurred.

What is the purpose of the Arctic Circle Wayside Rest Area along the Dalton Highway?

The Arctic Circle Wayside Rest Area provides a stopping point for travelers on the Dalton Highway. It features a short side road leading to a viewing deck with interpretive displays, marking the approximate location of the Arctic Circle.

What is the role of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) concerning the Dalton Highway?

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) provides information and resources related to the Dalton Highway, including visitor guides, indicating their involvement in managing or providing information about this public land access route.

What is the relationship between the Dalton Highway and the Dempster Highway?

The Dempster Highway is mentioned as being the only other all-purpose road in North America that extends beyond the Arctic Circle, drawing a parallel to the Dalton Highway's unique northern location.

What kind of scenery can be observed along the Dalton Highway, as suggested by the gallery images?

The gallery images suggest that the Dalton Highway passes through diverse and rugged landscapes, including tundra, mountains like Sukakpak Mountain and the Brooks Range, and areas with significant snow cover during winter. The Trans-Alaska Pipeline is also visible in some views, and wildlife such as muskoxen and wolves can be spotted.

What is the significance of the E. L. Patton Yukon River Bridge in relation to services on the Dalton Highway?

The E. L. Patton Yukon River Bridge, located at mile 56, is a key point where fuel services are available for travelers on the Dalton Highway.

What is the population of Deadhorse, Alaska, and what influences its seasonal population fluctuations?

Deadhorse has a small permanent population of 25 residents. However, its seasonal population can swell significantly, ranging from 3,500 to over 5,000 people, primarily driven by the activity levels in the nearby Prudhoe Bay oil fields.

What does the caption for the image featuring Sukakpak Mountain convey?

The caption for the image depicting Sukakpak Mountain states that it is a prominent landmark situated at milepost 203 of the Dalton Highway.

What is the purpose of the 'Oh Shit Corner' mentioned in the table of features?

While the table lists 'Oh Shit Corner' as a feature at milepost 126 (203 km), its specific purpose or the reason for its name is not detailed in the provided text, though it is likely a challenging or notable point on the road.

What is the general condition of the road surface on the Dalton Highway, and what does this imply for vehicle suitability?

The Dalton Highway is predominantly gravel, with some sections being very primitive. This condition makes it challenging and potentially risky for smaller vehicles and motorcycles, suggesting that larger or more robust vehicles are better suited for the journey.

What role did Alyeska Pipeline Service Company play in the highway's development beyond initial funding?

After funding the initial stretch of the road and overseeing its construction, Alyeska Pipeline Service Company eventually turned over control of the completed highway to the state of Alaska in 1979.

What is the significance of the Dalton Highway being featured in television shows like 'Ice Road Truckers'?

The inclusion of the Dalton Highway in popular reality television series such as 'Ice Road Truckers,' 'America's Toughest Jobs,' and 'World's Most Dangerous Roads' highlights its reputation for extreme conditions, isolation, and the challenging nature of traversing it, thereby increasing public awareness of the route.

What is the meaning of the term 'North Slope Haul Road' in relation to the Dalton Highway?

'North Slope Haul Road' is an alternative name by which the Dalton Highway is still sometimes known, reflecting its historical role in supporting activities and transportation on Alaska's North Slope.

What are the two boroughs that the Dalton Highway traverses?

The Dalton Highway passes through the Unorganized Borough and the North Slope Borough of Alaska.

What does the reference to 'northernmost part of the western hemisphere road network' signify for the Dalton Highway's terminus?

This designation means that the end of the Dalton Highway at Deadhorse represents the furthest point north reachable by a continuous road system in the western hemisphere, underscoring its extreme geographical location.

What is the purpose of the 'KML file' link associated with the Dalton Highway?

The 'KML file' link provides geographic data in the Keyhole Markup Language format, which can be used with mapping software to visualize the route of the Dalton Highway, aiding in navigation and planning.

What kind of travel guide is available for the Dalton Highway on Wikivoyage?

Wikivoyage offers a travel guide specifically for the Dalton Highway, providing practical information and advice for those planning to journey along this route.

Dalton Highway Wiki: The Dalton Highway: An Alaskan Expedition into the Arctic

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About the Dalton Highway

The Arctic Artery

The James W. Dalton Highway, commonly known as the Dalton Highway and officially designated Alaska Route 11, is a significant, albeit remote, transportation corridor in Alaska. It is also frequently referred to by its original construction name, the North Slope Haul Road.

Vital Statistics

Stretching an impressive 414 miles (666 kilometers), the highway commences at the Elliott Highway, situated north of Fairbanks. Its northern terminus is at Deadhorse, an unincorporated community adjacent to the Prudhoe Bay oil fields, bringing travelers within proximity of the Arctic Ocean.

Purpose and Origin

Constructed primarily in 1974 as a supply route for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS), the Dalton Highway was instrumental in facilitating the development and ongoing operation of oil exploration and extraction activities on Alaska's North Slope.

A History Forged in the North

Early Attempts

The vision for a North Slope access road predates the Dalton. In 1966, Governor Walter J. Hickel initiated plans for a winter road. Construction began in 1968 on what was initially called the "Walter J. Hickel Highway." However, engineering challenges, particularly the thawing of permafrost, led to its abandonment by April 1969, rendering it unsuitable for the planned Trans-Alaska Pipeline System route.

Pipeline Construction

Recognizing the critical need for access, the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company funded the initial segment of the current highway from Livengood to the Yukon River in 1969. Full-scale construction, driven by the pipeline project, resumed on April 29, 1974, and an astonishing 390 miles were completed within five months. The pipeline itself was finished in 1977.

Transition and Naming

Initially known as the "Wales Highway," control of the road was transferred from Alyeska to the State of Alaska in 1979. It was officially renamed the James W. Dalton Highway, honoring a prospector and engineer significant to the region's development. Public access was gradually expanded, reaching Mile 211 in 1981 and the full length by 1994.

Navigating the Wilderness

Extreme Isolation

The Dalton Highway is renowned for its isolation, paralleling the Trans-Alaska Pipeline for much of its length. Along its 414 miles, only three small communities exist: Coldfoot (population 34), Wiseman (population 12), and Deadhorse (with a small permanent population and a large seasonal influx). Services are sparse, with fuel available at the Yukon River Bridge (Mile 56), Coldfoot, and Deadhorse.

Road Conditions and Risks

The highway is predominantly gravel (approximately three-quarters of its length) and can be primitive in sections, posing significant risks for smaller vehicles and motorcycles. The nearest medical facilities are located in Fairbanks and Deadhorse. Travelers are strongly advised to carry survival gear and exercise extreme caution, driving with headlights on at all times.

Traffic and Terrain

Despite its challenges, the Dalton Highway supports substantial truck traffic, averaging around 160 trucks daily in the summer and up to 250 daily in winter, servicing the oil fields. The route features steep grades, reaching up to 12%, and traverses diverse Arctic landscapes.

Paved Segments

While largely unpaved, several sections of the Dalton Highway are paved, offering smoother driving. These segments are located between the following mileposts:

Mile 19 to 24
Mile 37 to 50
Mile 91 to 111
Mile 113 to 197
Mile 257 to 261
Mile 344 to 352
Mile 356 to 361

Key Features and Landmarks

Atigun Pass

The highway reaches its highest elevation at Atigun Pass in the Brooks Range, standing at 4,739 feet (1,444 meters). This critical point marks the Continental Divide at Mile 244, separating watersheds flowing south to the Pacific or Bering Sea from those flowing north to the Arctic Ocean.

Arctic Circle

At Mile 115, travelers encounter the Arctic Circle Wayside Rest Area. This significant geographical marker offers interpretive displays and a viewing deck, providing a tangible sense of crossing into the Arctic region.

Yukon River Bridge

The E. L. Patton Yukon River Bridge, located at Mile 56, is a vital crossing point over the Yukon River. It is one of the few points where fuel services are available along the route.

Named Locations

Truckers and locals have given distinctive names to various points along the highway, reflecting its challenging nature and unique character. These include landmarks like "Oh Shit Corner," "Finger Mountain," "Sand Hill," and "The Roller Coaster," adding a layer of local lore to the journey.

Environmental Dynamics

The Dalton Highway traverses dynamic Arctic environments susceptible to natural phenomena. Floodings from the Sagavanirktok River, melting ice roads, and migrating debris flows, such as the "blob" near Mile 200, have necessitated significant repairs and road rerouting, highlighting the constant interplay between infrastructure and nature.

Visualizing the Journey

Sukakpak Mountain

A prominent geological feature, Sukakpak Mountain serves as a notable landmark along the Dalton Highway, often visible from Mile 203, offering a dramatic backdrop to the road.

Roadscapes

Photographs capture the essence of the Dalton Highway, showcasing its winding path through vast tundra landscapes and rugged mountain terrain. Images depict both the stark beauty of summer and the challenging conditions of winter.

Brooks Range Vistas

The highway traverses the majestic Brooks Range, with views from both the southern and northern sides of the Continental Divide near Atigun Pass. These vistas highlight the dramatic elevation changes and alpine scenery.

Arctic Wildlife

The remote wilderness is home to iconic Arctic fauna. Sightings captured along the highway include large herds of Muskoxen and solitary wolves, underscoring the rich biodiversity of the region.

Infrastructure Parallel

Aerial perspectives often reveal the Dalton Highway running parallel to the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. This juxtaposition visually represents the highway's primary purpose and its integration with vital energy infrastructure.

Road Signs and Snow

Images document the practical realities of the highway, including directional signs and warnings, often set against a backdrop of snow, emphasizing the seasonal challenges and the need for constant vigilance.

Major Intersections & Features

Route Details

The Dalton Highway is marked by numerous points of interest, junctions, and geographical features. The following table details key locations along its length.

Borough	Location	mi	km	Destinations	Notes
Unorganized	Livengood	0	0.0	AK-2 (Elliott Highway) – Manley Hot Springs, Fairbanks	Southern terminus
	Hess Creek	21	34	Hess Creek Overlook & Rest Area
	Yukon River	56	90	E. L. Patton Yukon River Bridge
		115	185	Arctic Circle Wayside Rest Area	A short side road leads to viewing deck with interpretive displays
		126	203	Oh Shit Corner
	Prospect Creek	135	217	Access road to Prospect Creek Airport	Site of the lowest recorded temperature in the United States
	Grayling Lake	150	240	Grayling Lake Wayside Rest Area
	Coldfoot	175	282	Coldfoot Road	To Coldfoot Visitor Center
	Coldfoot	175	282	Airport Road	To Coldfoot Airport and Coldfoot Post Office
	Wiseman	189	304	Road to Wiseman
North Slope		244	393	Continental Divide / Atigun Pass	Highest point (4,739 ft / 1,444 m); Rivers flow to Pacific/Bering Sea (south) or Arctic Ocean (north)
	Galbraith Lake	275	443	Galbraith Airport Road	To Galbraith Lake Airport
	Sagavanirktok River	348	560	Sagavanirktok River Overlook
	Deadhorse	414	666	East Lake Colleen Drive	To Deadhorse Airport and Prudhoe Bay; Northern terminus; Northernmost part of western hemisphere road network
1.000 mi = 1.609 km; 1.000 km = 0.621 mi

Further Exploration

Related Routes

Discover other significant roadways and transportation networks that share characteristics with the Dalton Highway:

List of Alaska Routes
Dempster Highway - A comparable all-purpose road extending beyond the Arctic Circle in North America.

Regional Portals

Explore broader geographical and infrastructural contexts:

Alaska Portal
U.S. Roads Portal

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Dalton Highway Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not travel or safety advice. The James W. Dalton Highway is an extremely remote and challenging route. Travel on this highway carries significant risks, including mechanical failure, severe weather, limited services, and potential encounters with wildlife. Always consult official sources, ensure your vehicle is properly equipped, and inform others of your travel plans before embarking on this journey. The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Dalton Highway

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

About the Dalton Highway ℹ️

🛣️ The Arctic Artery

📏 Vital Statistics

🏗️ Purpose and Origin

A History Forged in the North ⏳

📜 Early Attempts

👷 Pipeline Construction

➡️ Transition and Naming

Navigating the Wilderness 🧭

📍 Extreme Isolation

⚠️ Road Conditions and Risks

🚚 Traffic and Terrain

🛣️ Paved Segments

Key Features and Landmarks 📍

⛰️ Atigun Pass

🌐 Arctic Circle

🌉 Yukon River Bridge

🗺️ Named Locations

🏞️ Environmental Dynamics

Visualizing the Journey 📸

🏔️ Sukakpak Mountain

🚗 Roadscapes

🏞️ Brooks Range Vistas

🐻 Arctic Wildlife

🔗 Infrastructure Parallel

🪧 Road Signs and Snow

Major Intersections & Features 📊

🗺️ Route Details

Further Exploration 🔗

🗺️ Related Routes

🌍 Regional Portals

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About the Dalton Highway

The Arctic Artery

Vital Statistics

Purpose and Origin

A History Forged in the North

Early Attempts

Pipeline Construction

Transition and Naming

Navigating the Wilderness

Extreme Isolation

Road Conditions and Risks

Traffic and Terrain

Paved Segments

Key Features and Landmarks

Atigun Pass

Arctic Circle

Yukon River Bridge

Named Locations

Environmental Dynamics

Visualizing the Journey

Sukakpak Mountain

Roadscapes

Brooks Range Vistas

Arctic Wildlife

Infrastructure Parallel

Road Signs and Snow

Major Intersections & Features

Route Details

Further Exploration

Related Routes

Regional Portals

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice