Northbound: The Journey to Alaska Begins

Day 1: Alaska Highway Adventure Began

Starting this road trip by myself was unusual since Crystal and I usually traveled together on these adventures. For this one, however, we decided I would tackle the first five days solo while she flew to Fairbanks, Alaska, to join me for the bulk of the adventure. On the morning of July 5th, I pointed the Jeep north and began my long-awaited journey to Deadhorse, Alaska via the Dalton Highway, kicking off what became an epic Alaska road trip. By midday on the second day, I reached Dawson Creek, British Columbia, the official starting point of the world-famous Alaska Highway.

The drive was spectacular from the very beginning, taking me through vast stretches of Canadian wilderness unlike anything found in the Lower 48. The Alaska Highway delivered incredible scenery, remote landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the adventure only became more memorable as it continued north.

After two nights of wilderness camping in Canada, I had already seen a black bear, two herds of Bison, a herd of elk, and more huge rabbits than I could count. One of the highlights was stopping at Tetsa River Lodge, home of the legendary “Cinnamon Bun Centre of the Galactic Cluster.” Their world-famous cinnamon roll absolutely lived up to the reputation and proved to be a must-stop along the Alaska Highway.

Another day on the road brought even more adventure. Much of the day was spent exploring beautiful British Columbia and the Yukon, crossing back and forth between the two while enjoying some of the best scenery of the entire trip so far. Along the way, I spotted four more black bears, more Bison herds, mountain goats with their kids, two stunning waterfalls, and enjoyed a pair of scenic hikes.

I wrapped up the day by setting up camp in the rain at Morley Lake, BC, adding another memorable chapter to this Jeep overlanding adventure.