Is the Copper River Highway one of the most scenic roads in Alaska?
Located in the Chugach National Forest (Valdez-Cordova Census Area), in the U.S. state of Alaska, the Copper River Highway is a remote route running along the former railbed of the Copper River and Northwestern Railway.
| Road facts: Copper River Highway | |
|---|---|
| Location | Valdez-Cordova Census Area, Alaska (USA) |
| Distance | 79.7 km (49.5 miles) |
| Start / End Points | Cordova to Mile 36 (formerly Million Dollar Bridge) |
| Surface | Paved first 19.3 km (12 miles), remaining gravel |
| Status | Closed past Mile 36 due to bridge washouts |
| Winter Access | Closed past Mile 12.4 |
How long is the Copper River Highway?
The highway is 49.5 miles (79.7 km) long and extends from the town of Cordova toward the Million Dollar Bridge over the Miles Glacier. Beyond the bridge, a 2.4-mile section leads to a sharp drop-off, followed by a rough 10-mile (16 km) unpaved 4x4 track extending to the Allen River, passable only by high-clearance off-road vehicles (ORV).
Is the Copper River Highway closed?
Yes. The highway is currently closed past Mile 36 due to severe bridge approach erosion at Bridge 339 over the Copper River delta. The road past Mile 36 has been de facto abandoned since 2011, cutting off vehicle access to the Million Dollar Bridge until full infrastructure repairs occur.
Is the Copper River Highway paved?
Construction began in 1945 by converting the old railroad grade into a road surface. Only the first 12 miles (19.3 km) out of Cordova are paved asphalt; the remaining 37.5 miles consist of unpaved gravel and packed dirt.
Can you drive a passenger car on the Copper River Highway?
Standard passenger cars and RVs can travel the open section from Cordova up to the closure point at Mile 36 during summer months without needing high-clearance 4WD vehicles.
Is the Copper River Highway closed in winter?
Maintenance stops at Mile 12.4 in winter. Heavy snow accumulation closes the gravel section beyond this point through late spring.
Pic: https://www.thecordovatimes.com/2018/08/24/copper-river-highway-washout-forces-early-business-closures/