Mile 0 Alaska Highway

Have you ever wondered where the journey to true northern adventures begins? Mile 0 of the Alaska Highway is more than just a road sign; it is an iconic historical landmark located in the heart of the city of Dawson Creek. This is the official starting point of the legendary Alaska Highway, stretching an impressive 2,400 kilometers through the wild and majestic landscapes for which Canada is famous.

This attraction features the famous commemorative post proudly displaying the words "Mile 0". Surrounded by information plaques, it tells guests about the history of the highway's construction, which became a vital artery for connecting with the north. For many travelers, this spot has become a symbol of the transformation of a modest farming settlement into the region's key transportation hub.

Today, "Mile Zero" is a must-stop for adventurers and road-trippers. There is a special atmosphere of anticipation for the long road ahead, and the site itself is equipped with everything needed for a break: tourist zones, parking, and souvenir shops where you can purchase memorabilia themed around the famous highway.

For those planning a visit to the iconic starting point of the Alaska Highway, it is helpful to have the exact coordinates on hand. The marker is located in a convenient spot accessible to tourists at any time of day.

The first thing every visitor does at "Mile 0" is, of course, take a commemorative photo in front of the legendary sign. This photo has long been a traditional ritual, symbolizing the start of an epic journey. Next to the sign are information boards worth exploring: they contain route maps, interesting facts about the road's construction, and historical background to help you better plan your onward trip.

Walking around the surrounding area, you will find cozy rest and picnic areas. If you are traveling by RV, convenient parking spaces are provided. In the immediate vicinity is the Dawson Creek Art Gallery, housed in a unique old grain elevator building, and the Walter Wright Pioneer Village, where you can literally touch the way of life of the land's first settlers.

In the summer, the atmosphere here becomes particularly lively: the city often hosts festivals and themed events dedicated to the history of the Alaska Highway. You can combine viewing the sign with shopping at local souvenir stores selling unique Mile 0 merchandise, or simply enjoy a stroll through the city center, soaking up the spirit of the pioneers.

Reaching the legendary "Mile 0" point is quite simple, as it is located in the very heart of the city. Dawson Creek is a major transportation hub reached by the region's main highways. If you are traveling by car, follow Highway 97 (the Alaska Highway), which connects the city with southern areas, such as Prince George, located approximately 400 km away.

For those who prefer air travel, the nearest is Dawson Creek Airport (YQW), located just 10 kilometers from the center. A taxi ride or rental car from the airport to the sign will take no more than 15 minutes. This is the most convenient way for international tourists to begin their overland adventure.

While public transport within the city itself is limited, intercity buses regularly bring passengers from neighboring regions. Nevertheless, most travelers prefer renting a car or an RV to fully experience the spirit of freedom of the northern roads. Free parking for visitors is provided right at the attraction.

The history of this location is inextricably linked to a grand engineering challenge of the mid-20th century. In 1942, a quiet farming community changed its status forever: Dawson Creek was chosen as the starting point for the construction of a strategic highway connecting British Columbia to Alaska through the Yukon.

The construction of the highway, spanning approximately 2,400 kilometers, took place under incredibly harsh conditions. Thousands of workers battled impenetrable taiga, swamps, and extreme temperatures to carve a path through the wilderness. This project became a symbol of the resilience and professionalism of the pioneers, turning the region into an important logistics hub.

The Mile 0 marker today serves as an eternal reminder of that era. It marks the spot where the road began that opened the northern expanses to explorers and tourists. The legacy of those years is carefully preserved in local museums, where you can see the machinery and personal belongings of the legendary highway's builders.

Today, the Alaska Highway is considered one of the most scenic and popular tourist routes in the world. Every year, thousands of people come here to touch history and begin their own journey in the footsteps of the pioneers, taking their first step right at this famous sign.

For a quick introduction to the site, including a commemorative photo session and reading the information boards, you will need very little time—from 30 to 60 minutes. This is enough to feel the significance of the place and study the map of your upcoming route along the highway.

If you plan to complement your visit with a trip to nearby museums, such as the Art Gallery or the historical Walter Wright Pioneer Village, as well as have a small picnic in the rest area, it is worth setting aside 2-3 hours. This immersion will allow for a more detailed look at the life of the first settlers and the region's atmosphere.

The attraction is accessible to visitors 24 hours a day, daily, without weekends or breaks. You can take a photo at the famous sign in the rays of the rising sun or in the evening twilight.

For more detailed information on the hours of the visitor information center or nearby museums, we recommend checking the official city website or the Alaska Highway Tourism organization in advance.

After you’ve captured yourself in front of the legendary sign, it’s worth spending time at other interesting spots nearby. Exploring the surroundings will help you feel the deeper atmosphere of a city that is rightfully proud of its historical heritage and hospitality.

Within walking distance of "Mile Zero," you will find cozy spots to relax after your walk, as well as monuments that complement the story of the North's development. Below is a list of nearby attractions that may be of interest to visitors: