Driving Tips for Alaska!
If you are planning to drive to or rent a car/RV while in Alaska you may be curious about what driving here is like. Alaska has a few unique driving laws that are good to know, and there may be some things you want to keep in mind that are not of concern in other places.
Alaska Laws
The Alaska Five-Vehicle Count Law
This unique state law is if you are driving on a 2 lane highway and you have five or more cars behind you, you must pull over at the first safe opportunity to let them pass.
Alaska Roads
Frost Heaves and Potholes
Many roads in Alaska have frost heaves which may make the road have “rollers” or bumps. These heaves are caused from ice expansion and then melting. You may want to slow down a few MPH when going over these, but generally they are just a fun little bump.
Potholes are also common on Alaskan roads. They are also caused by ice expansion and melting. These you generally want to avoid hitting, that being said do not swerve your car to miss them. Swerving is far more dangerous than hitting a pothole.
Highways
Many roads in Alaska are highways, with few opportunities to turn off outside of towns and destinations. The highways have many signs that make navigating them easier.
Most highways are two lanes with passing lanes often.
The highways are also winding with many curves.
Gas Stations
Before heading out on an adventure make sure you know where gas stations are. Many parts of the Alaskan road system are without gas stations for over an hour of driving. Knowing how much gas you have and where you will be able to stop next is essential.
Wildlife/Stopping for Wildlife
You may encounter wildlife during your drive, while super exciting, this can be dangerous for them and for you.
When there are a few cars pulled over on the side of the road typically there will be a moose or other animal they are looking at.
While I don’t encourage pulling over to look at/take pictures of the wildlife, if you want to, make sure you are in a safe spot and not parked where others cannot see you.
It is a hazard for other drivers if you do pull over, and it can teach the wildlife that the road is safe. Which is not the case.
Hitch Hikers
You will probably see people hitch hiking while driving in Alaska. This is normal here! Many people, especially seasonal workers, do not have cars. They are looking for rides to work, back home or to an adventure! If you can/are comfortable, pick them up! Of course be cautious, but keep in mind hitch hiking here looks different than other places.
Headlights - Use Them
Alaska is the land of the midnight sun, which means it does not get dark here in summer. That being said, you should still use your headlights, especially during night hours. This will alert other drivers of your presence and help scare away wildlife.
Rental Cars
Rules
Most rental car companies in Alaska will not allow you to take the car on non-paved roads; which are all over Alaska. These rules are in place because non-paved roads are less maintained and have a higher chance of vehicle damage.
Make sure to check your rental cars policy and know what roads you need to take to get to your excursions/adventures.
While nothing too crazy changes with driving up in Alaska, these are great things to keep in mind in order to make your trip smoother and to be a kind driver on the road.
