coldfoot tours

• Prudhoe Bay
• Yukon River
• Gates of the Arctic National Park
• The Arctic Circle

Coldfoot Tours

There are few communities in Artic Alaska accessible by road and Coldfoot is one of the unique stopping points for those travelling down the Dalton Highway. Rich in fishing opportunities and at the helm of untouched wilderness, Coldfoot is the perfect base camp for backcountry exploring through the Brooks Mountain Range and Atigun Pass and renowned for stunning displays of the Northern Lights phenomenon.

Originating as a mining camp, Coldfoot was aptly renamed in 1900 after the first settlers got "cold feet" and turned around upon their arrival. Nearby the town, visitors can explore the Arctic's deep cultural and natural history by hiking into the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve or the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

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Tour Summary

• Fly north from Fairbanks and wonder at the story of the vast and remote land below ... the traditional peoples that continue to sustain their lifestyles and cultures in the expansive Yuon River valley as they have for thousands of years ... the gold mining activity that continues nearly 100 years after the yello metal first brought newcomers rushing north ... the Trans Alaska Pipeline symbolizing the immense changes brought to Alaska's Arctic by the discovery of oil just over 30 years ago.
• Thrill at the excitement of crossing the Arctic Circle.
• Land 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle at the Brooks Mountain Range community of Coldfoot, the modern day gateway to the Gates of the Arctic National park. Take in a brief orientation and restroom break before continuing on your air journey.
• Experience the rugged and magnificent Brooks Mountain Range. The flight route takes you inside the Gates of the Arctic National Park, the wild and pristine jewel of the national park system.
• Enjoy your return flight to Fairbanks. Receive an official Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate.

The Ultimate Arctic Circle Experience!!

Tour Dates and Rates

June 1, 2024 - August 31, 2024

7:00 PM Departure

Days: Daily

• Arctic Circle
• Undiscovered Arctic

Departs 7:00 pm; returns between 11:30 -12:00 am

*2024 Rate : $709 per person

For information on how to make a reservation, click on the link to our planning  page. 

Arctic Circle Fly Drive Adventure - Northbound

An Overnight Guided Round Trip Journey By Land And Air Into Alaska's Brooks Mountain Range

• ✓ Arctic Circle
• Χ Arctic Ocean
• Χ Polar Bear
• Χ Undiscovered Arctic
• ✓ Yukon River

Arctic Circle Air Adventure

A One Day Guided Round Trip Journey By Air And Land Across The Arctic Circle

• Χ Yukon River

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This Small Town in Alaska Is One of the Best Places to See the Northern Lights

Guang Shi/Getty Images

To the untrained eye, Coldfoot doesn’t look like much more than a rest stop on a highway for ice road truckers heading to the oil fields on Alaska’s northern coast. The entire town consists of a post office, a motley collection of old-school gas pumps, an inn made of trailers that once housed pipeline workers, a troopers office, a simple restaurant, and a runway for bush planes. 

But for those keen on roughing it in the nearby Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve or witnessing the northern lights dance across the night sky, this little outpost nestled at the base of the Brooks Range is a great jumping-off point for Alaska-sized adventures . 

Jacob Boomsma/Getty Images

History of Coldfoot, Alaska

Coldfoot, like many communities in Alaska , started during the gold rush. In 1899, fortune seekers came to what was then called Slate Creek in search of riches. Legend has it the village was rechristened after several prospectors got “cold feet” about spending the winter in the Arctic Circle and retreated south (not that we can blame them — the coldest recorded temperature in Coldfoot was -82 degrees Fahrenheit). Eventually, the miners moved on and Coldfoot became a ghost town . However, in the 1970s, it saw a second boom, thanks to the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Today, just under 300 people live there year-round. 

How to Get to Coldfoot, Alaska

Noppawat Tom Charoensinphon/Getty Images

Drive yourself: From Fairbanks, Alaska’s second-largest city by population size, it’s about 250 miles on the Dalton Highway to Coldfoot. The highway is considered the most dangerous in Alaska — especially in the winter when conditions are icy — due to narrow roads, steep cliffs, poor visibility, and fast-driving 18-wheelers. If you decide to drive yourself, be sure to fill up on gas ahead of time, download maps (you won’t have cell reception) for offline viewing, and bring enough snacks and water. If you don’t have your own car (we’d recommend something with four-wheel drive), consider renting from Arctic Outfitters . Their vehicles are equipped with a CB radio, tire-changing equipment (including two spares), a satellite phone, and an engine block heater and extension cord. 

Travel with Northern Alaska Tour Company : This bush plane company has two options for traveling to Coldfoot. Either you can fly each way (about one hour and 45 minutes) or you can fly up and take a shuttle bus back. The second option is cheaper and you’ll get to see the area from both a bird's-eye and ground level perspective, but it is a longer commute.

Where to Stay in Coldfoot, Alaska 

There aren’t many lodging options in Coldfoot — your only choice, apart from camping, is staying at The Inn at Coldfoot Camp , made up of a collection of trailers that once housed those who were building the oil pipeline. The rooms are modest — everything you absolutely need and nothing you don’t. Each has two twin beds and a small bathroom with a hot shower.

Where to Eat and Drink in Coldfoot, Alaska 

Like the accommodations, there’s only one dining option in Coldfoot: the Coldfoot Trucker’s Cafe. The winter menu includes all your typical breakfast fare (served all day), a variety of basic burgers and sandwiches, a soup of the day, two salads, and a host of carb-centric sides. Still, it’s pretty good and the portions are huge. In the summer, the location runs a breakfast buffet from 5 to 9 a.m. and a dinner buffet from 5 to 9 p.m. For lunch, they offer “no-fuss sack lunches,” including a sandwich, chips, and cookies, which can be brought on your backcountry adventures . There’s also a small gift shop adjacent to the cafe that sells sundries like granola bars, fruit leather, and candy. 

In the same building as the cafe is The Frozen Foot Saloon, which sells reasonably priced beer and wine. 

Things to Do in (and Around) Coldfoot, Alaska

Arguably the main reason people visit Coldfoot is to see the northern lights . Chances are, if it’s a clear night, they’ll appear at some point. It’s impossible to say when, so often it’s a waiting game. Luckily, it’s an activity you can do from the warmth of your accommodations (though if you prefer, Coldfoot Camp offers a nightly excursion to the village of Wiseman to await the aurora borealis in a heated cabin with hot beverages and a knowledgeable guide). 

A good resource for gauging when the lights may appear is the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Their website offers some predictions. There are also oodles of apps that can alert you to the possibility of a solar show in your area. 

Fantastic Geographic/Getty Images

If you’re looking for a guided adventure during the day, Coldfoot Camp can arrange one. Here are a few standout options (all of which can be booked through their reservations office):

• Koyukuk River Float: Only offered from mid-May to mid-September (the rest of the year is just too cold), this float down the Koyukuk River offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of Arctic Alaska with the Brooks Range as a backdrop. With any luck, you may even see a moose or bear from the safety of your raft.
• Arctic Snowshoe Outing: Though this is a guided activity, it’s still a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure trip, as guests can dictate how far they want to snowshoe along the Clara Creek. Hot drinks and snacks are served along the way.
• Dog Sledding: Coldfoot Camp’s resident musher takes guests on daily one-hour backcountry trail runs with their team of sled dogs. Afterward, visitors can tour the kennel and meet the racers.
• Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve Flightseeing Tour: Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is the northernmost national park in the U.S. It’s also the second largest, but the least visited . There aren't roads or infrastructure of any kind in the park, so unless you’re highly skilled, it’s not advisable to go on your own. However, one way to visit this national park is via a flightseeing tour. Coldfoot Camp can arrange a one-hour flight to see some of the 8,472,506 acres of Alaska’s wild and raw Arctic backcountry.

Related Articles

Discover the Top 15 Attractions in Coldfoot, Alaska, in 2024

Embarking on the Dalton Highway? Don’t miss the hidden wonders of Coldfoot, Alaska! More than just a refueling stop on your journey to Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay, Coldfoot is a treasure trove of unique activities. Join us as we unveil the 15 best things to do in Coldfoot based on our exciting road trip adventures in this remarkable destination.

Table of Contents

Coldfoot, Alaska: A Traveler’s Insight

Nestled along the Dalton Highway , Coldfoot, Alaska, is an essential pit stop with one of the few gas stations on this route. However, there’s much more to this place than just fuel. Chris and I spent several days here, discovering it as the perfect base to explore Alaska’s remote corners, including the Gates of the Arctic National Park – the most secluded and least visited national park in the U.S. This article is your guide to the most thrilling activities in Coldfoot and Coldfoot Camp.

Getting to Coldfoot, Alaska

Situated in the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, Coldfoot lies at milepost 175 on the Dalton Highway, halfway between Fairbanks and Prudhoe Bay. It’s a 254-mile journey north of Fairbanks and just 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle sign. A drive from Fairbanks to Coldfoot is a 6-hour trek at minimum, with no stops.

Navigating this challenging route requires preparation, so make sure to check our safety tips for driving Alaska’s longest gravel highway . Coldfoot also serves as the last stop for supplies and gas before reaching Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay, another 240 miles to the north.

Our Tip: If you plan your adventure from Fairbanks, check out our Fairbanks itinerary and top things to do in this city .

Coldfoot’s Rich History

Founded in 1898 during the gold rush, Coldfoot, initially known as “Slate Creek,” was renamed when miners got “cold feet” about enduring the brutal winters and headed south. At its peak, Coldfoot boasted a gambling hall, two roadhouses, saloons, and a post office, with mail delivered by dog sled in winter and on foot in summer. Between 1908 and 1912, miners relocated to Wiseman, 13 miles north, for better prospects.

Coldfoot saw a revival in the 1970s with the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. In 1981, Iditarod champion Dick Mackey started a unique venture, selling hamburgers to truckers from an old school bus turned “food truck” in Coldfoot.

This stopover quickly evolved into Coldfoot Camp , a vital hub for truckers between Fairbanks and Prudhoe Bay , featuring a restaurant, lodging, a gas station, and even WIFI access. As of 2020, Coldfoot’s population was 34.

The 15 Best Things to Do in Coldfoot, Alaska

1. stop for gas at the coldfoot truck stop.

Wondering why refueling is on our list of top things to do in Coldfoot? It’s simple: this is a crucial step for any Dalton Highway adventure. Coldfoot is one of only three places with gas stations along this remote highway, making it an essential stop on your journey to Deadhorse. Our tip? Be prepared for the gas prices, which can be a surprise, especially given the route’s proximity to the Trans Alaska Pipeline.

To help you plan your budget, here’s what we found: during our trip, gas in Coldfoot was $7.499 per gallon, while in Deadhorse, it was $8.079 per gallon. This information will help you budget effectively for your trip.

2. Savor Hearty Cuisine at Coldfoot Trucker’s Cafe

At the heart of the Dalton Highway lies the renowned Coldfoot Trucker’s Cafe, a must-visit for every traveler. Famous for serving truckers who navigate challenging terrains, this Cafe offers fresh, tasty, and substantial meals. We indulged in their buffet breakfasts, a la carte lunches, and dinner buffets during our stay, and every meal was a delightful experience.

The generous portions reflect the Cafe’s primary clientele—drivers of oversized trucks who need substantial fuel for their demanding journeys. A breakfast here guarantees energy that lasts till the evening. The staff? They’re as warm and welcoming as the food. Don’t miss this spot; it stands out as one of the culinary highlights of Dalton Highway.

Traveler’s Tip: Breakfast is priced at $16.95, and dinner at $23.95. They host a full breakfast buffet from 5 am to 9 am and a dinner buffet from 5 pm to 9 pm during summer. In winter, you can enjoy their all-day menu featuring irresistible omelets, soups, burgers (the “standard” ones are a must-try), and homemade chili. Be sure to browse their Menu for a full range of options.

3. Share a Toast with Truckers at the USA’s Northernmost Saloon

The Frozen Foot Saloon in Coldfoot holds a unique title: it’s the northernmost spot in the USA where you can legally enjoy a drink. Located just before the prohibition zone that starts north of Coldfoot, it’s your last chance to savor a beer or wine before reaching the Arctic Ocean. If you’re dreaming of celebrating your Arctic adventure with a drink, this is the place to do it, as you won’t find alcohol for sale in Deadhorse at Prudhoe Bay.

The Frozen Foot Saloon, conveniently located in the same building as the Coldfoot Trucker’s Cafe and next to the gas station, offers a selection of beverages, including locally brewed Silver Gulch beers from Fairbanks. Wine lovers can enjoy choices like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. Prices are reasonable, too – we paid $5.25 for both beer and wine.

4. Refresh with a Shower at The Inn at Coldfoot Camp

Might sound a bit unusual, but on the Dalton Highway, a shower is a luxury! For those camping along this rugged route , as we did, finding a place to freshen up can be a challenge. The campgrounds here don’t offer shower facilities, and the natural water sources are icy cold, even in summer.

But don’t worry, The Inn at Coldfoot Camp comes to the rescue! This establishment, primarily catering to industrial workers and truck drivers, offers a simple yet clean lodging experience. While the hotel might be basic in amenities, it’s impeccably maintained. For those camping out, as we did at the Marion Creek Campground (just 5 miles north of Coldfoot), The Inn offers shower facilities for $14 per person, with towels included. It’s a small price to pay for a much-needed refresh during your Dalton Highway adventure.

5. Embark on an Unforgettable Arctic Adventure from Coldfoot Camp

Coldfoot Camp serves as a gateway to a host of exhilarating activities, perfect for those seeking adventure in the Arctic wilderness. Among the offerings are river rafting, sightseeing, and hiking. A highlight is the trip to the historic community of Wiseman, a journey back in time to Alaska’s gold rush era.

One of the most thrilling experiences is the Arctic Mountain Safari . This adventure takes you from the dense boreal forests to the expansive Arctic tundra. Key stops along the way include the majestic Sukakpak Mountain, the striking Chandalar Shelf, and, conditions permitting, the Atigun Pass. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife – foxes, bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and moose in their natural habitat.

Another must-do activity in Coldfoot is a helicopter flight over this stunning landscape, offering a bird’s-eye view of Alaska’s rugged beauty.

6. Experience the Majesty of the Brooks Range with a Scenic Flight

Our top recommendation in Coldfoot, Alaska, is a breathtaking scenic flight over the Brooks Range . Part of the Gates of the Arctic National Park, the Brooks Range’s beauty is beyond words, especially when viewed from the sky. On a previous Alaska trip, we experienced a flight over Denali with a glacier landing, which was equally awe-inspiring. Alaska’s aerial views are incomparable, with every sight more stunning than the last.

For this adventure, we chose Coyote Air , based in Coldfoot. Our pilot, Danielle, expertly guided us on a day-long journey through the Gates of the Arctic National Park, combined with a scenic flight. Coyote Air offers various flight options, including tours over the Continental Divide, Kobuk & Gates of the Arctic, and the Arrigetch Peaks.

This flight left such a lasting impression on us that we’re dedicated to writing a separate review of Coyote Air’s exceptional service. But don’t just take our word for it – check out our two-minute video featuring our incredible flight over the Brooks Range and our exploration of the Gates of the Arctic National Park. Special appearances by our skillful pilot, Danielle, and us, Agnes & Chris.

7. Discover the Wilderness of Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve stands as one of the USA’s most remote and least visited national parks . In 2022, it ranked as the second least-visited park, with only 9,457 recreation visits, including ours. Interestingly, Alaska hosts 5 of the 15 least-visited national parks in the U.S., such as Lake Clark, Katmai, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Parks, all of which we’ve explored on other trips. Kobuk Valley National Park remains on our list for future adventures.

Accessing the Park

Gates of the Arctic is a realm of pure wilderness devoid of amenities, telephone coverage, internet, or accessible roads. How does one reach this untouched paradise? While it’s possible to trek from Coldfoot Camp, it requires advanced wilderness skills and thorough preparation. We opted for an air taxi with a bush pilot for our visit. Our day in the park, filled with hiking and canoeing, was just an introduction – a recon mission for a longer future journey, details of which we’ll share in a separate article.

The Park’s Vastness

Encompassing 8,472,506 acres, Gates of the Arctic is the second-largest national park in the U.S. It’s home to six wild and scenic rivers, delicate ecosystems, and diverse wildlife in the Brooks Mountain Range. The park’s terrain varies from 4,000-foot foothills in the south to over 7,000 feet in the north, transitioning to the tundra leading to the Arctic Ocean.

Our Reflection and Plans

Our excursion into the Gates of the Arctic was a profound backcountry experience. It taught us the scale of the park, the preparation needed for self-sufficiency, and respect for the imposing mountains and wildlife. The one-day wilderness immersion was enlightening, highlighting our smallness against nature’s grandeur. It was a crucial preparatory step for a more extended, safe, and fulfilling journey in this majestic park.

8. Explore the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center

The Arctic Interagency Visitor Center stands out as not only one of the most informative but also one of the most beautifully designed visitor centers we’ve encountered in the USA – and we’ve visited quite a few. If your plans include exploring the Gates of the Arctic National Park or the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, make sure to add this center to your itinerary. Here, you can gather essential information, check weather updates, or pick up a map for your journey.

What sets this center apart are its captivating exhibitions and films that shed light on the Arctic’s fragile wildlife. Additionally, the center hosts exceptional programs led by Rangers. During our extended stay in Coldfoot, we attended several of these sessions. As wildlife photography enthusiasts, particularly of bears, we found these meetings incredibly insightful. Despite our extensive experience and knowledge about bears and safe practices in bear country, a Ranger-led lecture on polar bears in the Arctic – a subject high on our photography bucket list – was particularly eye-opening and had us riveted to our seats.

9. Visit Coldfoot Cementary and Old Miner’s Cabin

There are little remains of Coldfoot’s gold rush era sites. The harsh climate, harsh winters, rainfall, and snow are not conducive to maintaining buildings in good condition. Not much has survived from the cemetery, but it is still worth looking at this memorial site, even on the way to the local airport. Right next to it, you have several wooden miners’ huts to look closely at.

10. Take a Hike to the Trans Alaska Pipeline Viewing Platform

You can take short and easy walks around the area from the Alaska Interagency Visitor’s Center. There is an excellent trail to the Trans Alaska Pipeline, viewing platforms with information boards to learn about the oil industry in Alaska.

11. Try to Catch the Aurora Borealis (the Northern Lights)

With a bit of luck, if you plan your visit between August 21 and April 21, you can see an unusual phenomenon in the sky called the Northern Lights. At this latitude, beyond the Arctic Circle, seeing the dancing Aurora Borealis is highly likely. This place is considered one of the best for observing the aurora in Alaska and North America. Tours to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks for aurora viewing are also organized between mid-August and mid-April.

You will find more tips in our article: the best Aurora Borealis Tours from Fairbanks and how to plan Northern Lights road trip in Alaska.

12. Visit the Arctic Mining Town of Wiseman

One of the best things to do in Coldfoot is to visit the arctic town of Wiseman . Make sure to add this place to your Dalton Highway itinerary, as it’s one of the best stops along the way. To get there, at mile 189 of Dalton Highway, just after crossing the Middle Fork Koyukuk Bridge #1, take the turnoff to the west and drive 3 miles to the Wiseman.

13. Enjoy Fishing at the Local Creeks

Fishing is one of the best things to do in Coldfoot, Alaska. It’s a great idea, especially if you plan to spend more time there. Ask locals at Coldffoot Camp which creeks and spots are the best for it. But you must have a permit for fishing. Purchase an Alaska sport fishing license from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game . Arctic grayling, whitefish, Dolly Varden, arctic char, lake trout, burbot, and northern pike, can be found in the far north. Alaska Department of Fish and Game has a detailed free PDF guide with fishing spots and tips in this are a .

14. Float the Koyukuk River

A raft trip on the Koyukuk River with an experienced raft guide is one of the best things to do in Coldfoot. This adventure is on our bucket list for the next trip. To get to the rafting, you must also book an air taxi to take you to the river and then pick you up. Such an expedition requires excellent preparation, including rafting skills on challenging, wild rivers, and is unfortunately quite expensive.

Depending on the number of days, rafting can cost up to several thousand dollars per person. Coldfoot Camp organizes shorter and more affordable tours. It is an excellent opportunity to see the summer landscape from a water perspective during one of the rare warm months in the Arctic.

15. Hike the Coldfoot-Chandalar Trail

Coldfoot-Chandalar Lake Trail is 60 miles long and was built during the gold rush era. You can make this trail as a backpacking trip or walk just a few miles. According to Rolfe G. Buzzell, Ph.D., and his Office of History & Archaeology Report, number 117 published on Goldrich Mining , the Coldfoot-Chandalar (RST 9) and Caro-Coldfoot (RST 262) trails were part of a system of roads and trails that miners constructed.

The trails to the Koyukuk and Chandalar mining districts were the essential trail connections north of the Arctic Circle. Still, they were modest in terms of the numbers of stampeders, miners, freight carriers, and production of gold compared to other districts in Alaska, like the Independence Mine . The remoteness, severe environment, and long overland distances contributed to the high cost of transporting equipment and supplies to the Koyukuk and Chandalar districts. These two districts were among the highest in Alaska in terms of operating expenses, which reduced profits from gold mining by 50 percent.

Best Things to Do in Coldfoot, Alaska – Final Thoughts

Many travelers only drive the Dalton Highway, within a maximum of 2-3 days there and back, without sightseeing along the route. They only stop at Coldfoot Camp to refuel for the onward journey to Prudhoe Bay.

It’s a shame because Coldfoot is one of the most exciting places on Dalton Highway, with the most significant number of exciting outdoor activities. We are enchanted by this Alaskan wilderness, Coldfoot, and its residents, and we will be back there again. We hope the above list will inspire you to plan at least a 2-3 day stay in Coldfoot, Alaska.

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Agnes Stabinska is the creative force and co-founder behind the Alaska Itinerary blog. With a degree in Tourism Management and postgraduate studies in Journalism, Agnes combines academic expertise with real-world experience. Alongside her partner, Chris, she's your go-to guide for an authentic Alaskan adventure.

Agnes doesn't just write about Alaska; she lives it. From capturing the state's breathtaking landscapes through her lens to hiking its rugged trails or observing bears and whales in their natural habitat, her firsthand experiences are your compass to all things Alaska.

With Agnes and Chris, you're not just reading another travel blog; you're tapping into a treasure trove of insider tips, curated itineraries, and invaluable insights to make your Alaskan journey truly unforgettable.

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Coldfoot Alaska: The Perfect Arctic Adventure

Coldfoot Camp Alaska:The Northernmost Truck Stop in the World is more than just a Gas Station

By Maria Haase

The bus jolted forward like a tiger leaping for its prey. What was that?

“Yeah, that sometimes happens in the winter. The tires freeze to the ground when it gets that cold. That’s why I need to keep our photo stops so short!”The bus driver explained nonchalantly.

Winter in Alaska comes with its own set of travel challenges, as I’ve learned during my trip to Fairbanks and up the Dalton Highway to Coldfoot, Alaska .

Located 60 miles north of the Arctic circle, at the halfway point Mile 175 of the famous Dalton Highway between Fairbanks and Prudhoe Bay, Coldfoot Camp offers a unique travel experience. The Northernmost truck stop in the world is more than just a gas station.

There is a simple yet cozy hotel, a restaurant, a post office, and even a gift shop. But why would I spend my vacation going to a truck stop in the middle of nowhere in Arctic Alaska? Because Coldfoot Alaska, it turns out, is the perfect gateway to an Arctic adventure.

Driving on the Dalton Highway

Even the drive up is filled with several bucket list items:

Driving on the icy Dalton Highway? Check!

Walking on the frozen Yukon River? Check!

Taking your picture in front of the famous Arctic Circle Sign? Check!

Having your tires freeze to the ground? Check!

Not bad for a 12-hour bus ride, right? In between these highlights, Aaron, our bus driver, aka tour guide of Northern Alaska Tour Company , shared interesting tidbits of information about the history of Alaska, the Dalton Highway, the Alaska Pipeline, and flora and fauna of the Arctic.

Livengood to Deadhorse AK

The famous Dalton Highway stretches from Livengood, a small town outside Fairbanks, to Deadhorse at the oil fields in the Alaskan Arctic on Prudhoe Bay.

The 414-mile long dirt road was built in 1974 in record time to facilitate the construction of the controversial Alaska Pipeline.

Today, it is used to bring supplies to the workers at the drilling sites in the Arctic Ocean.

It has a dubious claim to fame as one of the most dangerous roads in the world. Steep grades up to 16%, surprisingly sharp turns and tight curves, harsh weather conditions, and the remoteness itself make this a treacherous road to drive on. Only specific rental car companies allow their cars to be driven on the Dalton, and carrying survival gear is a must.

The massive 18-wheelers that fly down the road can also be quite intimidating. Truckers of the Dalton Highway are known as Ice Road Truckers and have become famous in recent years thanks to a reality TV show that documents their lives driving up and down between Fairbanks and Deadhorse.

At the Arctic Circle

At the Arctic Circle, a few of us switched vans and continued our journey up north to Coldfoot Camp while the rest of the tour group drove all the way back to Fairbanks. I was happy to spend the night in Coldfoot and experience the Arctic for a bit longer than just a photo op.

Still, I like that Northern Alaska, my tour company, offers various options to experience the Arctic, all depending on your budget and comfort needs. You can choose between an all-drive adventure, a drive and fly mix, or fly in and out of Coldfoot. And, of course, you can spend as much or as little time in Coldfoot Alaska as you like.

Arriving in Coldfoot Camp

Coldfoot Camp doesn’t sound like much at first, but you’d be surprised by all the things you can do at this “truck stop.”

The camp is located right at the foothill of the Brooks Mountain Range and just outside the Gates of the Arctic National Park and the Kanuti and Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

You will also find the interagency visitor center there, which is a collaboration between 3 agencies, including the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Fish and Wildlife Service.

Coldfoot is a popular base camp for explorers, nature and wildlife photographers, filmmakers, and regular tourists with a lust for adventure and love for the outdoors ready to explore the Alaskan Arctic.

While there, you can also join other excursions, such as flightseeing over the Gates to the Arctic National Park, wildlife safaris, river rafting excursions, dog sledding, aurora viewing, and excursions to a small Alaskan village. You could easily spend a few days up there or even longer to spend time in nature and explore the area if you are up for an adventure in the Alaskan wilderness.

Since I only had one night in the Arctic, my schedule was jam-packed. After checking in, I grabbed dinner at the restaurant and was surprised by the extensive and affordable menu. Due to its remote location, I had imagined a sparse selection and ridiculous prices.

Various burgers, including three vegan and vegetarian options, homemade burger buns, and a side salad, washed down with a local(ish) Alaskan IPA, felt like heaven after the exhausting drive.

Aurora Hunting in the Arctic

My meal gave me enough energy to join the Aurora Borealis viewing trip to Wiseman , a tiny village just a little further north. I was lucky to have seen the Northern Lights twice in Fairbanks, but when you are in Alaska during Aurora season, you take any chance you get to see the mystical flickering lights in the sky. On the way to the tour pickup, I already spotted the Aurora behind clouds over the parked trucks at the truck stop.

A stunning sight, but nothing compared to seeing the dancing lights on a clear night. I was still hopeful. Weather moves fast in the Brooks Mountains, and I had nothing to lose but a few hours of sleep.

This far North, the Northern Lights tend to be directly above you, a rare angle to see and photograph. Excited, I climbed into the van and off we went.

Huddled in a Small Cabin

Our group of about 10 people huddled together in a small dry cabin to stay warm and get our cameras set up. Jack Reakoff, a local from Wiseman and aurora camera specialist, gave great instructions on the best camera settings and other photography tips to get the “perfect Aurora shot” for our Instagram.

The small wood-fire oven radiated a cozy heat, and we peeled off a few layers of clothing.

There was plenty of chairs, hot coffee, tea, and chocolate to sip on as we listened to Jack’s stories about living a subsistence lifestyle in Arctic Alaska.

It was fascinating to learn about the local wildlife, hear about his hunting and fishing adventures all over the state, and eye-opening to learn about the extreme impact of global warming on Alaska and the fragile ecosystem there.

During our visit, temperatures were in the 20s, which should have been -20F in late February.

Everyone I talked to during my trip was concerned about this “heatwave” and the consequences for the environment.

Every half hour or so, we bundled up and took a peek outside to check with our Aurora-spotter and driver if the cloud cover had lifted. I took a few photos, as the camera tends to see the Aurora better than the naked eye.

The Aurora was there, as it is every night, but due to the thick clouds, the images came out as if I added a green filter over it, bathing the landscape in an eery green light.

Luckily, I had gotten some great aurora shots in Fairbanks a few nights earlier, and thanks to Jack’s captivating stories, I was a little less disappointed when we wrapped things up at around 2:30 AM.

Snowshoeing in the Brooks Range

After not enough hours of sleep, a quick breakfast, and coffee, I jumped into another “first” for me–Snowshoeing.

Awkward at first, I was surprised how fast I got the hang of maneuvering in these oversized strap ons.

Yes, the first quarter mile or so had me huffing, puffing, and cursing as I tried to not tie myself into a human knot and trip over the unwieldy contraptions on my feet.

But then it “clicked,” and I was able to enjoy not only the snowshoeing along Slate Creek but also the stunning landscape around me.

Living in San Diego , I don’t get to see winter-y landscapes often, so the snow-dusted trees and snow-capped mountains made me feel all giddy with excitement and joy.

When we had to jump off the trail to make room for a dog musher and his team of sled dogs, my heart felt full.

A Bird’s Eye View of the Arctic

But my Coldfoot adventure was not yet over. We still had to get back to Fairbanks, which was an exhilarating experience in itself. Instead of driving 12+ hours back to Fairbanks, we hopped on a little 9-seater plane to take us back.

Seeing the arctic landscape from a birds-eye view was the “icing on the cake” and a fantastic ending to an amazing Alaska trip.

When I signed up for this trip to the frozen north, I did so without knowing much about the place.

I just heard some buzzwords like “Yukon,” “Arctic Circle,” and “Dalton Highway” and thought: “I’m in.”

Traveling to Coldfoot put me outside my comfort zone, and as always, this leap of faith rewarded me with a trip of a lifetime and experiences I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Before my trip to Alaska, I was afraid of how I could handle the harsh climate and how the Arctic conditions would affect me.

Now I wonder how we affect the Arctic and if the Arctic can handle our impact.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Why I Loved Visiting The Northernmost Truck Stop And Saloon In North America

• Destinations
• United States

The temperature had dropped below 20 degrees as the sun set on Coldfoot, Alaska, and I had left the little, rustic Slate Creek Inn at Coldfoot Camp to search the night for dancing lights.

Up above the Arctic Circle in Northern Alaska, Coldfoot Camp is a small collection of buildings that is made up of a truck stop café and the Slate Creek Inn . It was once used as a bunkhouse for workers along the infamous Dalton Highway that sprawls between Fairbanks, Alaska , to the oilfields of Prudhoe Bay .

It’s the most northern truck stop and saloon in North America, though it looks nothing like the brightly-lit, sparkling truck stops in the lower 48 states. The truck stop includes two large gas stations for the truckers who haul up and down the highway made famous by the Discovery TV show Ice Road Truckers . A small mechanic’s shop and closet-sized post office cozy up next to the café/saloon.

Across the frozen, snow-packed parking lot is the Slate Creek Inn with its particle-board walls and surprisingly comfortable-as-hell beds. We had traveled as a guest of Travel Alaska during a winter adventure press trip for more than 8 hours along the deadly, dangerous highway in the dead of winter to get to the truck stop.

No, I don’t have some weird obsession with truck stops, but Coldfoot and neighboring Wiseman are more than just a simple truck stop area. They are a visceral slice of Arctic Alaskan culture. Here, you’ll find mush sled dogs and the jagged Brooks Mountain Range , very near the Gates of the Arctic National Park . Here you’ll find a man nicknamed “Mr. Alaska,” who still lives off the land and trains Special Forces to survive arctic conditions. You’ll find the most northern tree in North America, a spindly, hip-high black spruce. And on many nights, you’ll find the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights.

Visiting the northernmost truck stop and saloon in North America is a unique experience for anyone visiting Alaska and one that every adventurer should experience… but it’s not an easy trek to get here.

A Trip To The Northernmost Truck Stop And Saloon

Our adventure to the Arctic Circle and Coldfoot Camp began with the Northern Alaska Tour Company ’s Arctic Circle Aurora Fly / Drive Adventure . On this particular adventure, my travel buddy Lyle and I joined a small “northbound little tour bus” for the long haul up the Dalton Highway to stay two nights at Coldfoot Camp. A small flight would return us to Fairbanks at the end of our stay, and we had signed on for the sheer audacity of traveling this infamous highway.

The tour is open from late August to late April in order to take advantage of the northern lights, but visitors can drive this highway on their own during the summer.

The Dalton Highway, also known as Alaska Highway 11, stretches 414 miles from Livengood, Alaska, to Deadhorse, near the Prudhoe Bay oil fields. Most of the highway is gravel, and it was constructed in the 1970s to service the 800-mile Trans-Alaska pipeline.

In addition to the TV show Ice Road Truckers , the highway is notorious for being a rough, dangerous, and lonely trek, even on the best of days. During the winter, it’s a packed path of ice and permafrost, but the unreal landscape during winter makes the wild ride more than worth it.

Led by our guide, Tim (who was amazing and talked about the history, flora, and fauna of the highway for 8 hours straight), we also stopped at various interest points along the highway, including the Dalton Highway Sign, the Yukon River Camp (the only flush toilets along the route), and Wildwood General Store trading post, which is closed during winter. 

The landscape is surreal. Heavy snow blankets the mountains, and the sky is heavy with fat gray clouds that blot out the sun. Massive 18-wheelers blow past us, kicking up snow swirls along the route, but safety comes first out here on the ice road. All truckers and drivers communicate regularly on the radio, alerting other drivers if they are approaching tricky areas, like Rollercoaster Hill or Oh Sh*t Curve. The drivers with the Northern Alaska Tour Company undergo extensive training on how to navigate the roadway, which can be deadly if you don’t know what you’re doing.

One of my favorite stops along the Dalton was in “The Enchanted Forest,” an area of black spruce trees that sit at a high point along the highway. Because of their location, they are covered in a thick layer of snow, giving them a magical fairy tale visage that seems like something out of a child’s imagination.

The highway runs parallel to the Trans-Alaska pipeline, most of which is above ground and elevated to allow wildlife to pass under. 

After hours of driving and learning about the highway, we reach the Arctic Circle, where we stop to take photos, sip on hot chocolate, and switch drivers to head to Coldfoot Camp.

Pro Tip: Bring snacks and lunch if you take this tour in winter. The Yukon Camp has some pre-packaged stuff to eat and buy, but the restaurant isn’t open in winter. 

Continuing Northward

Roughly an hour north of the Arctic Circle sign, we reach Coldfoot Camp in the dark and check into the little inn. Legend has it that Coldfoot got its name in 1900, when gold seekers who traveled so far to get there got cold feet and turned around. Today it serves as the northernmost truck stop in North America.

Though modest, the truck stop’s café won’t let you go hungry. I’ve never seen such generous portions of hot food served (and it’s delicious food, too). If you crave a beer or a glass of wine, then the saloon has you set. Of course, I had to have a beer in the most northern (legal) saloon in North America.

Coldfoot may be the loneliest truck stop in this hemisphere, but it also serves as a gateway to the scenic delights of the Brooks Range and all the adventures that can be found here. 

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve straddles the Arctic Divide in the Brooks Range , America’s northernmost chain of mountains. The Gates of the Arctic is a huge national park, sprawling over 13,238 square miles into a vast, untouched wilderness unmarked by any roads. The only village is Anaktuvuk Pass , a Nunamiut Iñupiat settlement, though smaller Alaska Native villages nestle along its borders.

Our tour guides with Northern Alaska Tour Company drove us farther north along The Dalton on its Arctic Wildlife Safari tour to the Atigun Pass , the highest pass in Alaska that is maintained throughout the year. It straddles the Continental Divide, and it’s notoriously dangerous for truckers in winter due to its elevation of 4,822 feet with 11 to 12 percent grades. 

Other activities offered in Coldfoot include snowshoe hiking, dog mushing, and a visit to Jack Reakoff, a homesteader and Alaskan survival expert in Wiseman, Alaska.

Pro Tip: The Gates of the Arctic is vast — roughly the size of Switzerland —but it’s also the wildest of the national parks in North America, having no National Park Service facilities, visitor centers or campgrounds.

Jack Reakoff of Wiseman is a bit of an Alaskan legend. He moved to Alaska as a child, when his parents decided to homestead the wild landscape. For the past 50 years, Jack has become a hero figure of sorts, living off the land and hunting bear and moose to survive. His pioneer cabin in Wiseman serves as our home base for the night as we peer up at the night sky to glimpse the colored dancing lights of the aurora borealis.

As I exited the inn that night to prepare for the trip to Wiseman, I glanced up at the sky that was dimly lit by the truck stop’s lights. I saw a smear of gray light across the sky, and my heart jumped. I had been told that sometimes the Northern Lights look like just a wispy cloud, so I took out my camera and snapped a shot.

Through the lens, that wispy cloud took on a vibrant green hue. I had found them — the northern lights. I rushed inside to announce to the other guests that the lights were out and we all marveled at the light show at the top of the world in Coldfoot. It was the only time we really saw the lights, but the hours of visiting with Jack Reakoff and listening to his stories were well worth it.

The next morning, we loaded up on small planes to return below the Arctic to Fairbanks. The icy mountains seemed bigger than life as we soared over them to return to life below the ice road and the most northern truck stop in America.

We highly recommend booking a tour and driver for this trip, especially in winter. However, the highway is a popular road trip destination during the summer, but you’ll have a rough time finding any rental car places that do not forbid taking their cars on the highway due to damage from all the gravel.

If you do wish to drive yourself in summer (also a stunning time to enjoy the landscape), you’ll need to use Arctic Outfitters, which has a fleet of SUVs designed for the highway. Each vehicle undergoes a rigorous maintenance routine and is equipped with top tires, a CB radio for remote communication, and a tire changing and maintenance kit. If you’re planning on driving all the way to Deadhorse, plan on at least three days. 

For more Alaskan inspiration, check out

• Epic Alaska RV Road Trip: Valdez To Hayder
• (Another!) Epic Alaska RV Road Trip: Kenai To Chena Hot Springs
• 9 Things To Know Before Your First Trip To Anchorage, Alaska
• 7 Best Places To See The Northern Lights In Or Around Anchorage

Heide Brandes is an award-winning journalist and travel writer based in Oklahoma. She loves outdoor adventures, exploring different cultures, and finding off-the-wall, bizarre, and wondrous experiences to enjoy. Heide writes for numerous national and international publications and is an award-winning member of the Society for Professional Journalists, North American Travel Journalists Association, and Society of American Travel Writers. Besides traveling and writing, Heide is also a professional Bellydancer, a medieval re-enactor, and a quirky chick who lives in Oklahoma City.

Coldfoot Camp

Coldfoot is the best (and most underrated) place to see the northern lights.

Photo of the aurora borealis over the South Inn by Kenji Sato.

Be honest with us for a moment: what comes to mind first when you think of ‘taking a trip to see the Northern Lights’?

For lots of folks, that’s “Oh, right, where is my passport?” or, if you’re in much of the U.S., “Would it really  be worth taking that international flight?” The good news is, that totally doesn’t have to be the case. If you’re reading this, you’re probably already clued in-–but lots of Americans don’t even realize  they have the option to see the aurora borealis right here in the United States.

In short: Coldfoot has stellar  auroras. (Get it?) This isn’t just seeing the aurora, either, like it’s possible to do in the northern parts of some states in the Lower 48. It’s world-class aurora-viewing. Cool, right?

Here's why. 

For one, Coldfoot is located above the Arctic Circle. As you may already know, our Arctic location means that we have twenty-four hours of daylight in the summer and almost twenty-four hours of darkness in the winter (which, up here, is most of the year). Skies are dark all the way from the 21st of August to the 21st of April, meaning that aurora hunters can catch excellent Northern Lights displays for almost eight months.

Another perk of being in the Arctic is that Coldfoot is located directly underneath the Aurora Oval. The northern Aurora Oval is a band encircling the north pole where solar flares collide with atmospheric particles and emit photons (light energy). As the name implies, the northern Aurora Oval is also the zone where the aurora borealis is most visible to us on the ground. This means that any night where the weather is clear enough, you’ll be able to see the aurora from Coldfoot or Wiseman.

In addition to a perfect location, we also have near-perfect weather. By the time that the very brightest and most colorful auroras are out, eighty percent of nights are totally clear--cloudless, and without precipitation--making for incredible views almost every night.

Finally, we have little to no light pollution! Often, in the Lower 48, even if the aurora is visible, it appears dimmer due to the amount of light pollution from nearby neighborhoods or urban areas. At our cabin in the nearby village of Wiseman, Alaska, there is absolutely no light contamination; here in Coldfoot, there are some outdoor lighting fixtures, but they’re very easy to get away from. In both cases, the nearest towns are 240 miles away in either direction-–meaning darkness and great displays no matter where you choose to watch.

For all these reasons, we like to think Coldfoot is one of the best (and most underrated) destinations for aurora hunters and travelers alike. If seeing the Northern Lights is on your  bucket list, forget about your passport, take that long weekend, and come on up to Coldfoot!

Colorful aurora borealis over Slate Mountain by Kenji Sato.

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Arctic Ocean and Prudhoe Bay Adventure (Southbound)

Explore alaska's arctic, cross the arctic circle and the yukon river and travel on the remote dalton highway..

Photo Journey:

Home » Tours » Bus Tours » Fully-Guided Bus Tours » Arctic Ocean and Prudhoe Bay Adventure (Southbound)

Tour Overview

Enjoy a unique Alaska guided road trip by van exploring Alaska’s north along the Dalton Highway, one of the most remote roads in the world. You’ll fly from Fairbanks to Deadhorse and  Prudhoe Bay. Then, enjoy a fully-guided van tour along the Dalton Highway. Alaska’s Dalton Highway is the state’s lifeline to the Arctic Circle and the Far North Region . Get a taste of the Gates of the Arctic National Park , the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge , the Brooks Range , and Alaska’s North Slope ! With rustic accommodations in Coldfoot and Deadhorse, you’ll sample how true Alaskan life is in the rural north.

What's Included

• 2 nights accommodations
• Flight from Fairbanks to Deadhorse (Prudhoe Bay)
• Overland van transportation with driver/guide from Deadhorse (Prudhoe Bay) to Fairbanks
• All taxes and fees

What's Not Included

Meals, optional excursions, and gratuities.

Tour Itinerary

Due to the tour's varying departure and arrival times, an overnight in Fairbanks before and after this tour are necessary.

Fairbanks to Deadhorse (Prudhoe Bay)

Fly from Fairbanks to Deadhorse across the Arctic Circle. On clear days, enjoy views of the Brooks Range and Arctic Ocean from the air. Deadhorse serves as the transportation and supply hub for the Prudhoe Bay oil fields and is the farthest north you can drive in the USA. Your guide will share insights about Arctic living and drive you to points of interest. On days when it is accessible, you will also visit the Arctic Ocean, where you can dip your toes in the shallows. Overnight Deadhorse.

Deadhorse to Coldfoot Camp

In the morning, you start your guided overland journey on the Dalton Highway. Your experienced driver/guide will provide insight and information about Alaska’s Arctic. The Dalton Highway is also known locally as the Haul Road, or perhaps even more famous as the “Ice Road”, a trucker supply route to the North Slope oilfields. You will explore the amazing arctic tundra of the Arctic Coastal Plain up close, where you can feel the veins of ice just beneath the surface. Your tour continues as you traverse the majestic Brooks Mountain Range and pass through the Continental Divide at Atigun Pass. Keep your eyes open for grizzly bears and caribou! Spectacular peaks and panoramic vistas make this journey a highlight. Travel time is approximately 8 hours this day including frequent stops. Overnight Coldfoot Camp.

Coldfoot to Fairbanks - Crossing the Arctic Circle

Today, you will visit the historic gold mining community of Wiseman. After a walking tour of the outpost, continue southward along the Dalton Highway where you cross the Arctic Circle. Other stops in route to Fairbanks include the trading post at Joy, interesting geologic formations, and the mighty Yukon River. Today’s travel time is also approximately 8 hours including frequent stops. You will arrive in Fairbanks at approximately 7:00-8:00pm.

Note: Overnight accommodations for this program consist of very basic, clean rooms that are extremely rustic by urban standards. Rooms do NOT have private bathrooms. Toilets and shower stall facilities are located down the hall. Rooms have 2 twin size beds.

Dates & Rates

The tour departs on Tuesday  and Friday .

To complete this reservation we will need for each person:  Full name, including middle names as listed on identification; issuing country (passport) or state (driver's license), ID number; dates of birth, and body weight.

Please see important notes about the access of the oil field.

Program is available to book for 1 or 2 people per room. For larger parties or families with children, please contact us for pricing and availability.

Important Notes:

• A 4-person minimum is required for the tour to operate!
• Flight between Deadhorse and Fairbanks is in a smaller plane such as a Navajo.
• Luggage restriction:   Guests are limited to one bag per person (preferably soft-sided) with maximum weight of 10-15 pounds. Additional luggage can be stored in   Fairbanks.
• Accommodations:   overnight accommodations for this program consist of very basic, clean rooms that are extremely rustic by urban standards.
• The Arctic Ocean or Prudhoe Bay oil field may not be able to be accessed. If generally accessible, depending on the security regulations, foreign passport holders may not be able to access the Arctic Ocean and Prudhoe Bay oil field.

Contact us to book this Tour.

Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.

• * First Name: *
• * Last Name: *
• Questions or Special Requests:
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

As we are sitting here waiting on our next flight, I wanted to take a minute to express my gratitude for the trip of a lifetime you had organized for my husband and me. Everything was wonderful. I can't thank you enough. If I hear of someone planning to visit Alaska, I... Read more  

Tara | Tennessee

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