Is it possible to drive to Alaska from Illinois?

Yes, it is a long-distance drive via the Alaska Highway through Canada.

Do I need a visa to drive through Canada?

US citizens do not need a visa but must present a valid passport or passport card.

What is the best month to drive to Alaska?

July and August offer the best road conditions and longest daylight hours.

Are there trains to Anchorage?

There is no rail connection from the lower 48 states to Alaska.

How long is the flight to Anchorage?

Flights from the Midwest typically take 10 to 14 hours including layovers.

McLean

Anchorage

Flight Driving

McLean to Anchorage

Updated: 30 May 2026

Traveling from McLean, Illinois to Anchorage, Alaska covers over 4,000 miles. The most practical method is flying from Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) or O'Hare (ORD) to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC). Driving requires traversing the Alaska Highway through Canada, a journey taking at least 60 hours of pure driving time. You will cross through North Dakota, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia. This route is a massive undertaking requiring a valid passport for the Canadian border crossing. Expect dramatic landscape changes from cornfields to the rugged peaks of the Chugach Mountains.

Total Distance: Driving distance 6,800 km; straight-line air distance 4,600 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from BMI or ORD to ANC via a major hub takes approximately 10-12 hours.

Cheapest Way

Flying from O'Hare (ORD) is generally cheaper than regional flights from BMI.

Compare McLean to Anchorage Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	10 hours	75 hours
Avg Price	$600 - $1,200	$1,500 - $2,500
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	BMI/ORD to ANC via Seattle or Denver.	I-80 W to I-90 W, then BC-97 N (Alaska Highway).
Tip	Book flights connecting through Seattle (SEA) to minimize total travel time.	Carry extra fuel and spare tires; services are sparse in Northern BC and Yukon.

Travel Tips

Passport Requirement
You must carry a valid passport for the drive through Canada.
Vehicle Prep
Ensure your vehicle is winterized if traveling between October and April.
Connectivity
Download offline maps as cell service is non-existent on long stretches of the Alaska Highway.
Wildlife Awareness
Be prepared for moose and bear crossings on the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
Currency
Carry Canadian dollars for fuel and food stops while driving through Canada.

Safety Tips

Road Conditions
Check 511 websites for British Columbia and Yukon for real-time road closures.
Emergency Kit
Pack a comprehensive emergency kit including blankets, food, and water for the drive.
Wildlife Safety
Never approach wildlife; keep a safe distance and stay inside your vehicle.
Weather Alerts
Monitor weather forecasts closely as mountain passes can close suddenly due to snow.