Today was another all-driving day as I took the first step along the Alaska Highway from Mile Zero at Dawson Creek, BC to Fort Nelson, BC. This section is not designated as scenic and there was nothing spectacular to see but, for much of the first 240 miles, it was very pleasant with numerous hills and valleys and some distant mountain views. I deviated from the highway twice, once for historical interest and once for a scenic view.
The first side trip was along a short section of the original Alaska Highway that crosses the historic Kiskatinaw Bridge. This wooden bridge was built in 1942/43 and is the only original highway bridge that is still in use. It is unusual in that it is a curved bridge and was the first of its kind built in Canada.
The second stop was at a viewpoint in Fort St. John which has an expansive view of the Peace River valley.
To see where all these places are, check out the map and video page here.
I am pretty sure I will not have Internet access tomorrow night so look for an update on stages two and three on Wednesday.
The Mile Zero sign for the current Alaska Highway.
The only original Alaska Highway bridge still in use.
Just a part of the view of the Peace River valley visible from the viewpoint in Fort St. John
Great pictures Steve. Since I was somewhat confused by and Alaskan Highway being in BC, I did some research on its interesting history! Thanks for posting – its a fun journey to view, and sounds even more so to actually experience! Happy travelling!
Thanks for following along, I’ll get to Alaska eventually. My journey is easy but I am so impressed by the native people and pioneers who opened up the area and made my trip possible. Despite visiting so many museums I still cannot comprehend how people in the 1800s were able to survey these wilderness areas and create maps and routes.
Still tagging along with you on the trip. Good stuff! I am about to set off on a six-day trip on the C&O canal and Gap trails all the way to Pittsburgh by bike So, while you are dodging marauding grizzlies, I will be fleeing from giant mosquitoes and rabbit groundhogs. Safe travels.
That would be rabid groundhogs. Siri is always messing me up.
Sounds like a great trip although, given your recent brushes with disaster, I hope you manage to avoid the mozzies, anything rabid and all other obstacles. Enkoy.