Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB - Ten Do´s and Don´t of the Dalton Highway, Alaska

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- - Ten Do´s and Don´t of the Dalton Highway, Alaska (https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/travel-hints-and-tips/ten-do-s-don-t-71602)

Nice tips. Re: # 8 I crashed on the Dalton and feel fatigue was the biggest factor. I didn't realize how easy it would be to get a room in Deadhorse or I would have stayed overnight there. As it was I left my panniers in Wiseman in anticipation of just stopping long enough in Deadhorse for a photo and then returning...
Live and learn.. :)

Thank you for the inspiration. I'll be taking an f800gs up in June running heidenau scout K60 tires as well.

I am confused by all the reports about how bad the dalton is. I think it must come down to how much dirt experience you have. If a person has only ever ridden dry asphalt then any wet gravel road will be treacherous. If you grew up on dirt bikes like me you are used to every surface having minimal traction and you just get used to it.

I don't like the idea that the road surface will adhere to my bike like clay and
get baked on the engine as if fired in a kiln. But again, as a dirt bike rider, I have ridden in clay before and while it takes some time to get the bike clean, it certainly is doable. Is your bike permanently covered in dirt or did you manage to get it clean?

The mosquito mask sounds like a good idea, anybody recommend one?

Nc

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hemuli (Post 476133)

I rode Dalton highway couple months ago (Heidenau K60 Scout tires).
Two days up (sunny and dry) and two days down (heavy rain).
You can get fuel from Yukon crossing (bridge over Yukon river and immediately on the left hand side (north side of the river).
Another place to get fuel is Coldfoot.
If you have a tent, you can camp free in Coldfoot.

I was expecting something special from this road due to so many discussions ongoing online, but I was totally disappointed. It is just a normal gravel road (not even a good one because it is spoiled with several sections of pavement).

When it started raining, I was expecting slippery surface and real struggle, but once again, nothing.
It was a bit muddy, but nothing like "extra" slippery, just a normal wet gravel road, speed can easily be kept around 50-60mph without fear for sliding off the road.

Of course, if you have street tires, it can be more difficult. Or if you are not comfortable with gravel roads, it can be an "adventure".

Thanks for sensible advice given in a straightforward manner.
While I'll never get to ride there, I have ridden some reasonable roads in Australia. As you say, it depends on the conditions on the days you travel - which could be good, average or bad.

Doug

I know this guy, Phil Freeman! He's crazy! . . . not. Listen to him. I've been there, the Dalton, twice. :clap:

Great info there Phil, often saw that ice road truckers program. What would you say about camping, is it safe to camp or are you likely to wake up with a bear eating your feet?

Alaska expedition

Hi Guys; nice tips. I go last year, alone from Mexico City to Prudhoe Bay, 25,000 kms 45 days - camping.