State tells drivers to stay off the Denali Highway as seasonal maintenance ends

Drivers in ordinary cars and trucks should stay off the Denali Highway until spring, the state transportation department said Thursday. Crews are ending regular maintenance on the 135-mile route between the Richardson and Parks highways effective Thursday, October 1.

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities does not maintain the road in winter. Once maintenance ends, the department said, the highway is subject to accumulating snow, ice and drifting. It also faces potentially hazardous conditions, including washouts and soft spots caused by freeze-thaw cycles.

Winter travel is primarily limited to snowmachiners, dog mushers and other recreational users with specialized equipment, the department said. Travel by conventional vehicles is "strongly discouraged" because of the potential for impassable conditions, the lack of emergency services and limited or no cellular coverage.

"As we wrap up regular maintenance on October 1, we want the public to understand that conditions can change quickly once the snow starts flying," said Jason Ludington, the department's Denali District superintendent. "Please plan accordingly, stay off the highway in winter unless you're properly equipped for remote travel, and always check 511 before you go."

Drivers heading out in the last days of the season should watch for remaining maintenance work and drive according to conditions, the department said. A 35 mph advisory speed limit remains in effect while the road is still under active maintenance.

The department tells travelers to prepare for remote conditions at any time of year by carrying food, water, first-aid kits, seasonally appropriate clothing, spare tires and communication devices.

Road conditions, weather updates and travel alerts are posted at 511.alaska.gov and in the Alaska 511 app.

Crews are scheduled to resume maintenance and reopen the highway May 15, 2027. "We'll be back out there in the spring to open it safely again," Ludington said.