When the opportunity to create a documentary about Mount Denali came my way, I had two choices: fly to Alaska or drive. I chose to drive. That decision transformed what could have been a straightforward work trip into an unforgettable adventure—one that tested my limits, deepened my bond with my dad, and left me with memories I’ll carry for the rest of my life.
Dad making dinner, we switched every night, while I walked around snapping images. Photo by Dalton Johnson
At the time, driving to Alaska wasn’t something I’d dreamed about. Sure, the Pan-American Highway was a fantasy of mine, but Alaska? It hadn’t crossed my mind until the documentary project made it a possibility. Flying would have been easier, faster, and probably more convenient, but I wanted to experience the journey. Once I decided to drive, everything began to fall into place—even though I had no idea what to expect.
A Mixture of Excitement and Uncertainty From the Start
The trip began with excitement tinged with doubt. Driving thousands of miles into unfamiliar territory felt overwhelming. Thankfully, my dad decided to join me. He didn’t need much convincing—a couple of weeks before we left, he jumped on board. Having him there meant everything. I wasn’t alone in figuring out the road ahead, and I had someone to share both the challenges and the magic of the journey.
We packed up the van—a converted Ram ProMaster 2500. It was more than just a vehicle; it was our home on wheels. Inside, we had a bed, cabinets, a small kitchen, and even a portable toilet. Solar panels powered the essentials, letting us live off-grid when needed. The van was more than functional—it gave us freedom. We didn’t have to rely on hotels or campgrounds; we could pull over almost anywhere and feel at home.
The first days were a mix of getting into a rhythm and making adjustments. One of the earliest lessons we learned was about the bugs. Alaska’s mosquitoes and biting flies are relentless. Within days, we rigged up makeshift bug nets to keep the van livable. It might seem like a small thing, but those nets made all the difference. They turned the van into a refuge rather than a trap.
A small Dad in a big landscape. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Moments That Took My Breath Away
Every road trip has its highlights, and this one was no exception. One moment I’ll never forget was standing at the border between Canada and Alaska. My dad, grinning ear to ear, straddled the line with one leg in each country. It was such a simple thing, but the joy on his face made it unforgettable. Watching him light up reminded me why this trip was so special—it wasn’t just about the destination; it was about the shared experience.
Then there were the roads themselves. In Alaska, highways stretch endlessly, flanked by towering mountains and endless forests. The sense of scale is hard to describe. Each mile felt like a journey deeper into the wild. Sometimes we’d drive for hours without seeing another car, just the landscape unfolding around us. It was humbling and exhilarating all at once.
And then there was the glacier. It was the first I’d ever seen, and it took my breath away. The icy blue shimmered in the sunlight, and for the first time, Alaska didn’t feel like an abstract idea. It was real, vast, and stunningly beautiful. That glacier made everything—the miles, the uncertainty, the effort—worth it.
That moment you realize you made it. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Lessons Learned on the Road
This trip wasn’t just about getting to Alaska. It was about the journey, the obstacles, and the moments in between. Driving thousands of miles gave me time to reflect and to connect with my dad in ways we hadn’t before. Growing up, we didn’t spend a lot of time together—he was always working, providing for our family. This trip gave us the time and space to talk, to share stories, and to just be.
One of the biggest lessons I learned was adaptability. Whether it was rigging up bug nets, finding places to sleep, or dealing with long stretches of road, we had to adjust constantly. Every challenge became a chance to figure things out together. It also taught me the value of preparation. The van’s setup—the bed, the kitchen, the solar power—made the journey smoother and gave us the freedom to focus on the adventure rather than logistics.
The other big lesson was about the value of companionship. Having my dad there turned what could have been a lonely drive into something transformative. We didn’t just share the road; we shared the experience. Watching the world go by from the van window, cooking meals together, and even sitting in silence—those moments meant as much as the big highlights.
The passenger was always responsible for looking wildlife along the roads while driving to Alaska. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Why This Trip Mattered
When I look back on this road trip, it’s not the glaciers, the mountains, or the endless highways that stand out most. It’s the feeling of connection—to the landscape, to my dad, and to myself. Choosing to drive to Alaska instead of flying turned what could have been a routine work trip into something life-changing.
This journey taught me that the best adventures aren’t always the ones you plan meticulously. Sometimes, they’re the ones that start with a single decision—to take the long way, to embrace the unknown, and to see what happens. The drive to Alaska wasn’t just a trip. It was a turning point, a reminder of the beauty of slowing down and the magic of the open road.
