Dempster Highway (Highway 5)
Gravel highway to the edge of the world.
The Dempster Highway isn’t just a road — it’s a 740-kilometer commitment across some of the most unforgiving terrain in North America. Built on permafrost and following old fur trade routes, this all-gravel artery punches north from Dawson City through the Yukon and Northwest Territories, crossing the Arctic Circle at kilometer 405 and the Continental Divide at Eagle Plains. The road demands respect: softball-sized rocks, tire-shredding shale, and weather that can turn lethal without warning.
This is moderate-to-difficult overlanding that’ll test your rig and your resolve. Any vehicle can technically make it, but high clearance and good tires are non-negotiable — carry two spares minimum. Summer brings 24-hour daylight but also construction delays and dust clouds that’ll choke your air filter. Winter operation requires serious cold-weather prep. Gas up at Eagle Plains (km 369) — it’s the only fuel for 350 kilometers. What you get is bragging rights and landscapes that’ll ruin every other drive for you.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 460 mi / 740 km |
| Duration | 3-4 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4265 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance recommended |
| Nearest town | Dawson City, YT |
| Land manager | Yukon Highways and Public Works |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | gov.yk.ca |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock truck or SUV handle the Dempster, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance truck or SUV is fine for most of the route. Aggressive lift isn't necessary, but you absolutely need two full-size spare tires — the sharp Yukon gravel will flat you, and it's not a matter of if, it's when.
When does the Dempster open and close each year?
The highway is typically open June through September for reliable driving. Spring breakup (April–May) makes sections impassable, and the two ferry crossings — Peel River and Arctic Red River — shut down during freeze-up and breakup, which can strand you for days with zero warning.
Do I need any permits or fees to drive the Dempster Highway?
No permit required to drive the highway itself. The two river crossings (Peel River and Arctic Red River ferries) are free. If you're continuing into the Northwest Territories past Fort McPherson, you're on NWT Highway 8, same deal — no fees, no permits needed.
What's the hardest or sketchiest section of the route?
The stretch over North Fork Pass and through the Tombstone Range is the most technical — narrow road, steep drop-offs, and no guardrails. In wet conditions that Yukon clay-gravel mix turns greasy and slick fast, especially on descents. Take it slow and don't trust your tires like you would on pavement.
How far between gas stations, and can I make it without a jerry can?
Gas is available in Dawson City, Eagle Plains (roughly the halfway mark at ~230 miles in), Fort McPherson, and Inuvik. Eagle Plains is the only stop in the middle, so if it's closed or out of fuel you're stuck — carry at least 5–10 gallons of extra fuel and don't gamble on this one.
Trail track
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