Arctic Circle Wayside
A popular spot for photographs, the BLM’s Arctic Circle Wayside is located at milepost 115 on the Dalton Highway. The Arctic Circle Campground is approximately 0.7 miles to the east.
A sign noting the Arctic Circle provides opportunities for photographs. An observation deck with interpretive panels affords panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Northern Lights can be viewed from this location during the winter.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
The Wayside has parking for 20 vehicles. Although none of the spaces are designated as accessible, the entire parking area should be suitable for people with mobility devices.
The site has 2 accessible single-stall pit toilets and 2 picnic tables that can accommodate wheelchair users. The gravel on the paths leading to the toilets and picnic areas may be somewhat loose, but there is a third accessible pit toilet right off the highway at the trucker wayside a short drive away. There is no camping and no cell phone reception.
A packed-gravel path leads from the parking area to the wooden observation deck. Angled interpretive signs are attached to the top of the deck’s rails. These may be too high to read from a seated position.
Note: Descriptions and photos uploaded July 2025. Please note that actual on-the-ground conditions may vary due to natural events (e.g., weather, wildfires, erosion), normal wear and tear, or site improvements.
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Drive north from Fairbanks on the Steese Highway to milepost 11 at Fox, Alaska. Continue straight onto the Elliott Highway and drive until milepost 73. From here continue straight onto the Dalton Highway. The Arctic Circle Wayside is located on the east side of the Dalton Highway at milepost 115.