Where is Denali Highway,Paxson, Alaska?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

Denali Highway is located in Alaska, USA. It lies between Paxson and Cantwell and is situated in the central part of the state, near the Alaska Range. The highway is famous for its scenic views, wildlife, remote wilderness, and access to hiking and fishing spots.

Denali Highway Location Map,Paxson, Alaska

Top Attractions Inside Denali Highway

  • Tangle Lakes – A series of clear, interlinked alpine lakes near MP 20–23, ideal for fishing, paddling, and scenic camping.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
  • Maclaren Summit – Highest point on the highway, offering sweeping tundra and mountain views that make like you’re atop the Alaska Range.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
  • Maclaren River & Glacier Viewpoint – Viewpoint at MP 42 with dramatic glacial valley vistas and access to the Maclaren River.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
  • Waterfowl Lakes – Chain of lakes around MP 49.5 popular for birdwatching (including swans), fishing, and peaceful lakeside stops.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
  • Susitna River Crossing – Impressive wild‑river viewpoint near MP 79.5, with access to rapids and a striking river landscape.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
  • Brushkana Creek Campground – Forested creek‑side campground (MP ~105) offering rustic camping, fishing, and access to pristine wilderness.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
  • Wildlife & Tundra Landscapes – Along the entire route, you’ll find opportunities to spot moose, caribou, bears and abundant birdlife; in summer the tundra blooms with wildflowers and opens up vast horizons.:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Denali Highway Facts

Official / Common NameDenali Highway
LocationPaxson / interior Alaska — spans from Paxson (Paxson Junction) to Cantwell, crossing the Alaska Range; remote-scenic route in central Alaska, USA
Latitude & Longitude (approx.)≈ 63.0° N, 146.0° W (approx. central‑route reference)
Total Length≈ 135 miles (≈ 217 km) of gravel / gravel‑paved road between Paxson and Cantwell
Road Type / FeatureGravel / lightly‑paved remote highway — largely unpaved, back‑country standard, weather/season dependent
Managed ByState of Alaska / Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (ADOT&PF)
Region / SettingInterior Alaska / Alaska Range — arctic‑subarctic wilderness: tundra, mountains, rivers, remote natural landscapes
Main Purpose / UseScenic drive & back‑country access — entry to remote wilderness, fishing/hunting areas, lakes/streams, backpacking, wilderness travel
Notable Features / Attractions Along RouteAlaska Range vistas, remote trails and lake/river access, solitude & wilderness ambiance, wildlife & bird‑watching, seasonal flora & fauna, stargazing & northern lights potential
Access / Travel NotesHigh‑clearance or 4x4 vehicles recommended; very limited services & amenities along route; travel requires planning (fuel, food, emergency supplies, weather & road‑condition awareness)
Significance / NotabilityOne of Alaska’s classic remote “back‑country highways” — offers rare access to vast, undeveloped wilderness and scenic interior‑Alaska landscapes
Time ZoneAlaska Time (AKT) – UTC−9 Standard / UTC−8 Daylight Saving
Remarks / CaveatsNo formal “visitor pass” or “entrance fee” — public highway; conditions vary seasonally; check local advisories before travel

Distances from Denali Highway to Nearby Landmarks

  • Cantwell, AK (start‑point on Parks Highway) – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Denali National Park Visitor Center (via Parks Hwy + access roads) – 135 km (84 mi)
  • Glennallen, AK (east end of Denali Hwy / junction with Richardson Hwy) – 209 km (130 mi)
  • Jake’s Corner via Richardson Hwy from Glennallen – 225 km (140 mi)
  • Paxson, AK (on Richardson Hwy beyond Glennallen) – 260 km (162 mi)
  • Fairbanks, AK (via Parks Hwy + connection to Denali Hwy) – 350 km (217 mi)
  • Anchorage, AK (via Parks Hwy to Cantwell + drive to waypoint) – 290 km (180 mi)
  • Talkeetna, AK (via Parks Hwy south from Cantwell) – 150 km (93 mi)
  • Delta Junction, AK (via Richardson Hwy from Glennallen) – 315 km (196 mi)
  • Tok, AK (via Richardson Hwy from Glennallen) – 420 km (261 mi)