Each year, motorcyclists from around the world make their way to Alaska to reach the farthest point one can ride in North America: Prudhoe Bay. Those that make it to the terminus of the Dalton Highway will land in the ominously-named community of Deadhorse. Up here, our place in the food chain drops a notch or so below the hypercarnivorous polar bears. So long as they stay satiated, you won’t become a meal on wheels.

The Haul Road wasn’t created for tourists looking to hit the beach on the Arctic Ocean. It exists to ensure trucks hauling supplies up to the oilfields in Deadhorse can do so in -60°F to 100°F temperatures, over ice, through snow or mud, and even under bluebird skies. This 414-mile road runs parallel to the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, and is crucial to pipeline maintenance. In the summer, road conditions change from decent chip seal and graded dirt to slick mud, deep gravel, frost heaves, and occasional wash-outs.

This guy came for the Arctic beach vibes.

They don’t truck around up here.

Follow that pipeline!

Artsy industrial scenery shot.

It’s not unusual to get stuck in a traffic jam of caribou or muskox. Dall sheep and arctic foxes can sometimes be seen frolicking beside the road.

This is not a casual Sunday ride. Many travelers come well prepared for this extreme adventure, and some others should have taken the suggestions in our 10 Do’s and Don’ts of the Dalton to heart. Those that ride their own rigs up and down the Haul Road have learned that the calcium chloride-enriched mud from this “highway” will never come off their precious machines. We can only hope they appreciate these dried on bits as badges of honor.

So why do so many people make it their mission to traverse this challenging road on two wheels? Maybe they’re chasing that feeling of accomplishing something many motorcyclists won’t dare to attempt their lifetime. Perhaps they know that this wild experience will continue to be tamed over time, and need to feel the exhilaration before it’s too late. I can tell you that every motorcyclist I’ve met who has ridden to and from Prudhoe Bay says nothing compares to this experience, and though they’re exhausted, most have no regrets.

For those who want to fulfill this dream ride with some peace of mind, we offer two guided and supported Prudhoe Bay Adventure dates each summer: one at the end of May, and one at the end of July. We’re often asked which one is better, and it comes down to your tastes. Early June historically offers drier weather and less road construction. July offers warmer temperatures and more wildlife viewing. Which one would you prefer?

Prudhoe Bay Adventure
May 30 – June 8, 2021
July 24 – August 2, 2021
May 29 – June 7, 2022
July 23 – August 1, 2022

Quick digest of the ride below for a brief overview:

• The package consists of 8 riding days (9 nights of lodging) included in base cost.
• Arrive in Anchorage, AK no later than mid afternoon on arrival day:
  • May 30th, 2021
  • July 24th, 2021
  • May 29th, 2022
  • July 23rd, 2022
• We recommend coming in at least one day early to acclimate and to account for potential flight or luggage delays. We can arrange additional lodging for you if necessary, subject to availability.
• Last day of riding and concluding farewell dinner is on:
  • June 7th, 2021
  • August 1st, 2021
  • June 6th, 2022
  • July 31st, 2022
• Base package includes shared accommodation and a Suzuki V-Strom 650 for $5,850 USD for 2021 and $6,150 USD for 2022.
• Upgrades to single occupancy, BMW F 750 GS, BMW F 850 GS, and BMW R 1250 GS are available.

Let MotoQuest founder, Phil Freeman, show what to expect when riding to Prudhoe Bay:

If you’re already making the effort to come all the way to Alaska for the adventure of a lifetime, why not explore the majestic Kenai Peninsula, too?  Let MotoQuest’s professional motorcycle vacation addiction enablers make it easy for you to experience the scenic wonder of the Last Frontier.

Within 20 minutes of your first day of riding, you’ll be cruising through the sweeping curves along the dramatic shorelines of the Turnagain Arm – a waterway which leads into the Gulf of Alaska. Imagine snow capped mountains to the right, countless waterfalls and perhaps even Dall sheep perched on rocks to your left, bald eagles soaring above, and your view opening up to ever-increasing beauty with each twist and turn.

You may feel a little sorry for folks who aren’t experiencing this magnificence by motorcycle, but that’ll fade.

 

Alright, DIY folks. We’ve got you covered, too. Rather than thrash your own motorcycle or take too much time off to ride your own rig all the way to and from Alaska, maybe consider making this adventure of a lifetime a little easier:

• Submit your request to rent one of our trusty motorcycles.
• Take advantage of our complimentary route consultation service after paying your deposit. Our enthusiastic team enjoys helping our riders polish their own itineraries.
• Fly into Ted Stevens International Airport (2 miles away from our Anchorage facility).
• Complete the paperwork, let our rental agent get you oriented to your steed, and hit the road!