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Deadhorse | Prudhoe Bay, Alaska

# Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay, Alaska Visitor Guide

Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay are located along the North Slope of Alaska, near the Arctic Ocean. These remote communities are primarily known for their oil production facilities and as the northern terminus of the Dalton Highway. This guide will cover the latitude and longitude of Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay, directions from Anchorage, things to do, the area’s history, RV and camping information, and annual festivals and events.

**Latitude and Longitude**: Deadhorse is located at approximately 70.2002° N latitude and 148.4597° W longitude. Prudhoe Bay is located at approximately 70.2550° N latitude and 148.3364° W longitude.

## Getting to Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay from Anchorage

Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay are accessible by air or road from Anchorage. The distance between Anchorage and Deadhorse is approximately 850 miles (1,368 kilometers) by road.

### By Air

Flights from Anchorage to Deadhorse are available through several airlines, such as Alaska Airlines and Ravn Alaska. The flight duration is around 2 hours, and the Deadhorse Airport (SCC) is located just a few miles from the town center.

### By Road

Driving from Anchorage to Deadhorse is a long and challenging journey that requires thorough preparation, as the route traverses through remote and rugged terrain with limited services along the way. The primary route to Deadhorse is via the Dalton Highway, which begins in Livengood, approximately 80 miles (129 kilometers) north of Fairbanks.

1. From Anchorage, head north on the Glenn Highway (AK-1) towards Fairbanks.
2. Merge onto the Parks Highway (AK-3) and continue north to Fairbanks.
3. In Fairbanks, take the Elliott Highway (AK-2) heading northwest towards Livengood.
4. Turn left onto the Dalton Highway (AK-11) in Livengood.
5. Follow the Dalton Highway for about 414 miles (666 kilometers) until you reach Deadhorse.

The drive can take 18 to 20 hours, depending on road conditions and stops. Be prepared for variable weather, rough road conditions, and always carry a full tank of gas, extra food, water, and emergency supplies.

## Things to Do

While Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay are primarily known for their oil production facilities, there are a few activities and attractions in the area for visitors.

### Prudhoe Bay Oil Field Tour

Guided tours of the Prudhoe Bay Oil Field, the largest oil field in North America, are available through local tour operators. These tours provide a unique opportunity to understand the region’s oil industry and the challenges of operating in the Arctic environment.

### Arctic Ocean

Visitors can arrange a tour to the Arctic Ocean, where they can dip their toes in the frigid waters and experience the remote and stark beauty of the Arctic coastline.

### Wildlife Viewing

The area surrounding Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay is home to a variety of Arctic wildlife, including caribou, foxes, and migratory birds. Visitors can often spot these animals while exploring the region.

### Dalton Highway

The Dalton Highway is a rugged and scenic drive that offers stunning views of the Brooks Range and the vast Arctic tundra. This challenging road is a popular route for adventurous travelers seeking a unique Alaskan experience.

## Detailed History

Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay were established in the 1970s after the discovery of vast oil reserves in the region. The construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System and the opening of the Dalton Highway were essential for developing the area’s oil industry. Today, Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay remain important centers for oil production in Alaska, and the communities primarily serve the needs of the workers and support staff involved in these operations.

## RV and Camping Information

There are limited RV and camping options available in Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay due to the remote location and harsh environment. Some options include:

### Deadhorse Camp

Deadhorse Camp offers accommodations in the form of heated modular units with shared restroom facilities. Though primarily intended for oil field workers, it is open to the public and offers meal service. RV parking is available, but there are no hookups or other camping facilities.

### Marion Creek Campground

Marion Creek Campground is located along the Dalton Highway, approximately 275 miles (443 kilometers) south of Deadhorse. The campground offers 20 sites for both RVs and tents, with basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. No hookups or potable water are available at this campground.

## Annual Festivals and Events

Due to the extreme Arctic climate and the remote nature of Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay, there are few annual festivals and events held in the area. However, visitors can enjoy various events in nearby communities along the Dalton Highway or in Fairbanks, such as the Midnight Sun Festival and the Arctic Man Ski and Sno-Go Classic.

### Midnight Sun Festival

Held annually in Fairbanks in June, the Midnight Sun Festival is a celebration of the summer solstice and the continuous daylight that occurs during this time of year. The festival features live music, performances, and art exhibits, as well as food vendors and family-friendly activities. This event is a great opportunity for those traveling to Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay to experience the unique Alaskan culture and tradition.

### Arctic Man Ski and Sno-Go Classic

The Arctic Man Ski and Sno-Go Classic is an annual event held in April in the Hoodoo Mountains, located approximately halfway between Fairbanks and Deadhorse. This unique race combines skiing and snowmobiling, with competitors racing down a mountain on skis, then being towed by a snowmobile partner up another mountain, and finally skiing down to the finish line. The event attracts thousands of spectators and participants, offering a thrilling and one-of-a-kind experience for those visiting Alaska during the spring season.

When planning a visit to Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay, it’s essential to be prepared for the remote location and potentially extreme weather conditions. Always carry extra food, water, and warm clothing, and make sure to inform someone of your travel plans. By taking these precautions and respecting the natural environment and local community, you can fully enjoy the unique experiences and remarkable landscapes that Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, have to offer.