Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Dalton Highway Tour

Journey north from Fairbanks along the Dalton Highway, one of the most remote and northerly roads accessible by vehicle, to the Arctic Circle. You’ll spend the day moving deeper into Alaska’s far north as forest thins and the landscape opens into wide valleys and tundra. We make several scenic stops at viewpoints for photos and short walks throughout the day, including time at the Arctic Circle sign (66°33′N). On the return, the late-night drive is timed for prime aurora viewing hours, with a chance to see the northern lights. Your guide uses real-time aurora forecasts to choose the best stops and timing. This is primarily a road-based experience with short, easy walks and ongoing commentary from your knowledgeable Alaskan guide. Non-smoking tour. Guests must be 15 or older. Groups limited to 6 guests in a new 11-passenger van fully outfitted for Arctic conditions, with guaranteed window seats, an unhurried pace, regular breaks, and flexibility, plus snacks, water, & hot drinks.

1. 1

   Alyeska Pipeline Viewing Point

   15 min

   A world-famous engineering landmark running alongside the route, with roadside viewpoints and photo stops along the way.

2. 2

   James Dalton Highway

   10 min

   One of the world’s most remote and northerly highways, stretching from the forests north of Fairbanks into Alaska’s vast far-north country. We'll stop for photos at the James Dalton Highway sign before we travel the first 115 miles along the Haul Road to the Arctic Circle sign (tour does not proceed all the way to Coldfoot as may be displayed on TripAdvisor's itinerary map for this stop)

3. 3

   Stop 3

   45 min

   A scenic stop at the Yukon River, where we cross the only bridge on the Dalton Highway. Guests have time to warm up indoors, enjoy dinner, and step outside for photos overlooking this vast Interior Alaska waterway.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   A high-country wayside with sweeping tundra views, where the landscape begins to feel distinctly northern.

5. 5

   BLM Arctic Circle Monument Sign

   30 min

   A classic roadside stop at the Arctic Circle marker for photos and a brief break before turning south.

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• No cigarette smoking at any point during the tour, including stops. Cigarette odor carries back into the van. Vaping is allowed only well away from other guests and the vehicle — never inside.
• This tour is not recommended for anyone with serious health conditions, including back problems or other conditions that could be aggravated by an extended day of sitting and travel on a remote, often rough industrial road far from services and immediate medical care.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.