Scenic Drive in Alaska

Extending 152 miles from Fox to 10 miles north of Fairbanks, Alaska, the Elliott Highway is one of the most scenic stretches of highway in the United States. The highway ends in Manley Hot Springs but there is talk of extending it a full 500 miles to the city of Nome. The current stretch of road is paved and is generally passable all year long for the portion that extends from Fairbanks to the Dalton Highway. The last 80 miles it takes to reach Manley Hot Springs from Dalton is unpaved. It is this section of the highway that tends to get treacherous during the winter months due to the water and ice that accumulates on the road. It is also often a windy area that leads to snow drifts and white out conditions, making it tough to drive. Travelers on the highway, especially visitors, should note there is no cell phone service available on the highway. Keep this in mind, especially if you are traveling in dangerous conditions during the winter. Once you get past the Dalton split, it is pretty desolate. If you are planning a trip all the way to the Hot Springs, be sure you are prepared with plenty of gas, and a well-maintained vehicle.