West toward the Yukon, Canada and Alaska, U.S. international border

Haines Junction, Yukon

Long before the advent of the Alaska Highway, Haines Junction served as a crossroads for trade. During the period of construction for the Alaska Highway, in 1942, the village of Haines Junction took shape. It sits today about 95 miles west of Whitehorse.

Its backdrop includes some of Canada's highest mountains and most spectacular scenery.

The town, about two hours west of Whitehorse, skirts up against Kluane National Park and Reserve. 

Getting ready for the Alaska Highway—Stocking the Medicine Chest

We kept the medicine chest for frequently used items such as refillable shampoo, conditioner and bath gel containers and deodorant. The items in the chest are secured against bouncing with small extension rods. These can be purchased at a camping supply store or you can do as we did; purchase and mount inexpensive short curtain rods.

Kluane Region, Yukon

North of Haines Junction, the Alaska Highway runs parallel to the outer rim of Canada’s Kluane National Park and Reserve, an area protected internationally for its mountains, its glaciers and its wildlife that includes grizzly bear, moose, wolves, Dall sheep and mountain goats. The Park received designation in 1980 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The drive continues along Kluane Lake villages Destruction Bay and Burwash Landing toward Beaver Creek, which is Canada’s most western community as you approach the Canada-U.S. border.

Getting ready for the Alaska Highway—plastic baskets

Some bathroom items don’t lend themselves to upright travel. We had hair brushes, toothpaste, straight and electric razors ride in inexpensive plastic baskets on available shelves. Toothbrushes hung from a plastic wall-mounted holder affixed to the medicine chest.

Road conditions—steep shoulders

Another aspect we observed about roads in the Yukon is the slope of the shoulder. In many instances, the asphalt trails off abruptly to a less than inviting downward curve. Fortunately, there are many designated turnouts of generous size. By stopping frequently at turnouts, you can check the rig and address some potential problems before they arise.