The Top of the World Highway is the name given to Yukon Hwy #9 – and is quite apt as it winds above timberline for many miles and you sometimes feel that you ARE on top of the world!
It runs from the U.S. border where it turns into the Taylor Hwy in Alaska. It is officially open from May – September but stays open till the first snowfall. The border crossing into Alaska however closes in Mid-September and after that point there is no crossing the border! Travelers beware!
The road is mostly gravel/dirt but when it’s clear … you can see forever! No high mountains, but rolling hills and large forests of black spruce and brush. Quite lovely in it’s own way. This continues for about another 65 miles. 65 miles and about 3 hours of what people pay to ride in amusement parks. It took me a day to recover (and many glasses of wine!)
Snow even in summer!
Views in the clouds!
Interesting driving in the clouds!
Really in the middle of nowhere!
Doesn’t sound too far … right? Count on around 3 hours +/- from the border.
Crossing from Alaska into the Yuon
View from Top of the World Highway
It’s quite desolate and there are no amenities along the way although there is a rest area with an outhouse and garbage bins about 54 miles (87km) from Dawson. But as for fuel … you either gas up at Dawson if you’re going west … or Tok or Chicken if you’re going East. There’s nothing in between. You can see snowbanks along the side of the road – even in summer.
When it’s raining or has been raining it’s very muddy and potholes are severe. It pays to go slow – take your time and you’ll have no problems!
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