ALASKA BORDER

Beaver Creek

The Beaver Creek Canada border sign on the Alaska Highway

Beaver Creek is the last Canadian community on the Alaska Highway before the US border, 30 km further west. Population about 100, most of them working for the border, the highway maintenance crews, or the two motels. It's a functional stop — fuel, food, sleep — not a destination. The White River First Nation has a presence here and their cultural centre is worth a look if it's open (limited hours).

Historically Beaver Creek was where the Alaska Highway construction crews finished — the actual junction where the two crews met is commemorated at Contact Creek further south, but Beaver Creek benefits from the story. Today it's a highway strip in the wilderness. Come here if you’re driving to Alaska. Otherwise, there's very little reason. In winter it's a lonely place; in summer the RV traffic keeps things lively-ish.

Where to stay

1202 Motor Inn and the Buckshot Betty's complex are the main options, $130-180 in summer. Everything is on the Alaska Highway strip. Winter closures are common — always phone ahead October to April. Expect functional rooms with reliable heat and questionable wifi. The upside of Beaver Creek accommodation is that if you’ve been driving the Alaska Highway for two days, anything with a hot shower feels like paradise.

Getting there

Drive from Whitehorse: 455 km on the Alaska Highway, about 5.5 hours. From Haines Junction 300 km, from Destruction Bay 180 km. No public transit whatsoever. The Alaska Highway is the only road; it's paved but expect gravel patches and frost heaves. Fuel at Beaver Creek is essential before crossing to Alaska — the next reliable fuel is Tok, 180 km further. Border hours vary seasonally; the Beaver Creek-Alcan crossing is 24 hours in summer, reduced October-April.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to stop in Beaver Creek if I’m driving to Alaska?

Yes — fuel up, use the bathroom, get food. From Beaver Creek to Tok, Alaska is 180 km of remote highway with limited services. Buckshot Betty's is the last real meal until Tok. Also, if you arrive at the border after Canadian customs hours, plan accordingly.

Can I see the aurora from Beaver Creek?

Yes, exceptionally well. Very dark skies, wide open horizon to the north, and you can drive 5 minutes out of town to any pullout. The catch is winter temperatures — -35°C is common in January and February. Warm car, warm clothes, warm accommodation waiting for you.