How to drive the wild road to American Summit in Alaska?

American Summit is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1,113m (3,652ft) above sea level, located in the U.S. state of Alaska. It’s one of the highest roads in Alaska.

American Summit

Where is American Summit?

The pass is located in Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, in the eastern part of Alaska, near the Canadian border.

Is American Summit paved?

The road through the pass is the iconic Taylor Highway. Constructed between June 1946 and October 1953, it comprises paved and unpaved sections, with steep and narrow gradients.

Is American Summit open in winter?

The highway, also known as Alaska Route 5, is closed to automobile traffic from October through April.

How long is American Summit?

The road through the pass is 102 km (63.8 miles) long, running south–north from Jack Wade, near the Top of the World Highway, to Eagle.
Pic: Ea Duvall