alaska highway
T
he final section of the Alaska Highway in Canada is the most challenging because of the frost heaves. These are caused by the permafrost, deep underground, which freezes and thaws unevenly. This phenomenon creates unexpected dips and rises in the road surface. These frost heaves require drivers to pay careful attention at all times. They are especially bothersome to motorhomes and travel trailers, however this section is still very beautiful and enjoyable to travel, if driven with proper care. In the White River area, you may notice hills alongside the highway have a large white streak running through them. This is from the White River Ash. It was caused over 1,200 years ago by the volcanic eruption of nearby Mt. Churchill. This explosion blanketed 340,000 square kilometres of the Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Alaska with up to a foot of ash. Discovery Yukon Lodging at km 1818 has cabins, full service RV sites and tent camping. Halfway between Whitehorse and Fairbanks, this wilderness oasis offers a wide range of amenities for guests. Free Wi-fi hotspot at the main lodge, hot showers, beer & wine sales, an amazing bistro and they are pet-friendly. Call for reservations at 867-862-7408.
www.BellsAlaska.com
Beaver Creek Visitor Center
beaver creek
B
eaver Creek is the most westerly community in Canada and is the last stop before entering Alaska. It is 300 km northwest of Haines Junction and is actually further west than Vancouver, British Columbia. Its population swells to 200 in the summer months although they do have a year-round population of about 100. The residents of Beaver Creek are friendly, welcoming and love the quiet wilderness that surrounds them. Beaver Creek has a library, a bank (open two days per week), restaurants, three hotels, two service stations and a post office. Canada Customs is just north of town and U.S. Customs is located 32 km north on the Alaska Highway. Both are open 24 hours. All traffic must stop for clearance at customs and have valid ID, such as a passport. Beaver Creek has been inhabited for over 10,000 years. It is the home of the White River First Nation who are culturally affiliated with both the Upper Tanana people of Alaska and the Northern Tutchone people to the south and east. There is an abundance of copper in the area and this became valuable in making weapons, ornaments and as a trade commodity. The Yukon
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