The Complete Dempster Highway Guide
Everything you need to know about driving the legendary Dempster Highway from Dawson City to Inuvik - route planning, road conditions, fuel stops, and what to expect.
Introduction
The Dempster Highway is one of Canada’s most spectacular and challenging drives. This 736 km gravel road connects Dawson City in Yukon to Inuvik in the Northwest Territories, crossing the Arctic Circle and offering unparalleled wilderness views.
The Dempster is a remote gravel highway with limited services. Proper preparation is essential.
Route Overview
The highway traverses diverse terrain including:
- Tombstone Mountains
- Blackstone Uplands
- Ogilvie Mountains
- Richardson Mountains
- Mackenzie Delta
Essential Planning
Fuel Stops
There are only two fuel stops along the entire route:
- Fort McPherson (km 406) - Gas, diesel, minor repairs
- Eagle Plains (km 369) - Gas, diesel, hotel, restaurant
Fill up in Dawson City and carry extra fuel. The distance between Dawson and Eagle Plains is 369 km.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June-August): Long daylight hours, warmest weather, most accessible
- Fall (September): Stunning colors, fewer bugs, cooler temperatures
- Winter (October-April): Extreme cold, requires winter driving experience
- Spring (May): Road often closed due to thaw and mud
What to Bring
Essential Gear
- Full-size spare tire (not a donut)
- Tire repair kit and pump
- Extra fuel (minimum 20L)
- CB radio (channel 19 for truckers)
- Satellite communicator (inReach, SPOT, etc.)
- Basic tools and duct tape
Emergency Supplies
- First aid kit
- Emergency food and water
- Warm clothing and blankets
- Matches/lighter
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Photo Highlights
Road Conditions
The Dempster is a well-maintained gravel road, but conditions vary:
- Dry weather: Fast, washboarded surface
- Wet weather: Slippery, muddy, potential for getting stuck
- Calcium chloride: Used for dust control, corrosive to vehicles
Speed: Keep it to 50-70 km/h. Slow down for oncoming vehicles to avoid windshield damage.
Wildlife
Expect to see:
- Grizzly bears
- Caribou (especially near Tombstone)
- Moose
- Dall sheep
- Arctic foxes
- Golden eagles
This is serious bear country. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise when hiking.
Camping
Territorial Campgrounds
- Tombstone Territorial Park (km 72) - Interpretive center, spectacular setting
- Engineer Creek (km 194) - Basic sites
- Rock River (km 447) - Beautiful mountain views
Wild Camping
Dispersed camping is allowed on Crown land. Practice Leave No Trace principles.
Tips from the Road
- Start early: Give yourself plenty of daylight
- Check road reports: DriveBC and 511 Yukon
- Wash your vehicle: The calcium chloride is corrosive
- Take your time: This isn’t a race, it’s an experience
- Respect the ferries: Peel and Mackenzie river crossings operate on schedules
Beyond Inuvik
Consider extending to Tuktoyaktuk on the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway - an additional 140 km to reach the Arctic Ocean.
Final Thoughts
The Dempster Highway is bucket-list worthy. With proper preparation and respect for the environment, it’s an unforgettable journey through one of North America’s last great wilderness areas.
Safe travels!