It's Finally Spring, As DOT Busts Through The Snowbanks On The Denali Highway

 

The Denali Highway is Now Open  

Press Release, DOT 

Travelers are encouraged to check road conditions at 511.alaska.gov before traveling 

(Fairbanks, Alaska May 7th, 2026) –The Denali Highway is now open for travel. Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) will perform regular maintenance now through October 1.

Beginning mid-April, Cantwell and Paxson crews started on either end of the 135-mile Denali Highway. Both crews worked on opening the highway until they finally met in the middle on May 1. Maintenance crews conducted snow removal, and thawed culverts, to restore the highways to good driving conditions. Use caution and reduce speed, as road conditions are fair but may include soft spots and rough patches. Drivers can expect an advisory 35 mile-per-hour speed limit due to current conditions. 

"The Denali Highway, connecting the Richardson and Parks highways, is a special stretch of road, and getting it open each season takes a lot of coordination and patience. Our crews have been out there maintaining lingering snow, soft spots, and spring runoff to make sure it’s safe for the public," said Jason Ludington, Alaska DOT&PF Maintenance and Operations Denali District Superintendent. "We’re glad to have it open, and we ask drivers to take it slow and be prepared for changing conditions."

Travelers should watch for maintenance crews working on the roads throughout the year and are encouraged to prepare for remote travel by bringing appropriate emergency supplies including food and water, first aid kits, seasonally appropriate clothing, and spare tires.

Seasonal weight restrictions are in effect and can be checked here. 

For the most up-to-date information, real-time road conditions, weather updates, and travel alerts, we recommend using 511.alaska.gov or downloading the Alaska 511 app.

Denali Highway Spring 2026 (Photos, DOT)