Alyeska Pipeline Viewing Point

Here you will find informational displays about the pipeline and an example of a pig, the device used to clean and inspect the inside of the pipeline. It took 70,000 construction workers and $8 billion of investment capital to build the famous 4-foot silver thread that snakes its way through 800 miles of Alaskan wilderness to reach the nation's thirsty refineries, crossing mountain ranges, earthquake zones, permafrost, and rivers. Some 420 miles of the pipeline are elevated (with 554 animal crossings), and outside Fairbanks is the place to see it. As you watch, consider this: Every hour, more than a million dollars of black gold flows through it.

20 minutes

James Dalton Highway (Pass By)

From Fairbanks, the Elliot Highway takes you about 73 miles north to the start of the Dalton Highway, traversing boreal forest hills of birch and aspen trees and tundra valleys of streams and small rivers. You will cross the mighty Yukon River and pass through the valley to Finger Mountain, a treeless high point with short walkways and kiosks to learn about the region’s geology and alpine tundra. The Arctic Circle turnout has bathrooms and a picnic area.

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We will stop twice at Yukon River Camp. The first time is for fuel and restroom when we go north. We will stop again for dinner on our way back from the Arctic Circle. This camp has a great location at the Yukon River Bridge at Mile 56 Dalton Highway. Winter menu at the Yukon River Noodle House includes freshly made Bahn Mi sandwiches and filling noodle soups.

1 hour

BLM Arctic Circle Monument Sign

Located at 66º33’ – the Arctic Circle marks the location where on June 21 the sun doesn’t set and on December 21 the sun doesn’t rise. Your guide will celebrate with you when you make this crossing and present you with your official Arctic Circle Certificate.

30 minutes