The Continental Divide crossing and highest elevation on Alaska’s Dalton Highway, Atigun Pass cuts a dramatic notch through the Brooks Range at 4,739 feet. Snow-capped peaks rise on both sides as you crest the pass, marking the transition from boreal forest to Arctic tundra. Weather changes fast here — summer snow squalls are common, and visibility can drop to zero in minutes.
The road climbs steadily through several switchbacks on the south approach. Pull-offs near the summit offer photo opportunities when conditions allow. Winter driving requires extreme caution with ice, wind, and whiteout conditions. This is true wilderness — no services, no cell coverage, just raw Arctic mountain country.
Continental Divide crossing through Brooks Range
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | 197 Dalton Highway, Coldfoot, Alaska 99701 Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 4739 ft |
| Nearest town | Coldfoot, AK |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | None |
| Best season | June-September |
| Land manager | BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |