The Denali Highway in Alaska is now open for public travel. The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) will conduct regular maintenance on the highway until October 1. Crews from Cantwell and Paxson began working from either end of the 135-mile road in mid-April, meeting in the middle on May 5. Their work involved snow removal and thawing culverts to restore driving conditions.
Drivers are advised to exercise caution and reduce speed due to potential soft spots and rough patches along the route. An advisory speed limit of 35 mph is currently in effect. Travelers should be vigilant for maintenance crews and are encouraged to prepare for remote travel by bringing emergency supplies such as food, water, first aid kits, spare tires, and appropriate gear for weather conditions. Seasonal weight restrictions are also in place and can be checked online.
The Denali Highway connects the Parks and Richardson Highways, serving as an important link for recreation, tourism, access, and seasonal travel across its scenic terrain. It closes each winter due to heavy snowfall but reopens each spring after necessary maintenance is completed.
For those planning a journey on the Taylor Highway or other routes, checking current road conditions at 511.alaska.gov or calling 511 is recommended.
The DOT&PF manages various transportation infrastructures including airports, ferries serving multiple communities along marine routes, extensive highways, and numerous public facilities throughout Alaska. The department’s mission remains “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.”
