Chena Hot Springs Road (CHSR) is a great example of a scenic drive in interior Alaska. The road spans 56.5 miles from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs Resort and runs parallel to the Chena River. Along the road, drivers have a great view of the Alaskan landscape as well as many kinds of wildlife. Although a beautiful drive, Chena Hot Springs Road can become a deadly route.
Road Conditions
Road conditions during winter months are often more dangerous. The state maintains CHSR, but with constant temperature changes through winter, the roadway suffers. As the ground freezes, defrosts, and refreezes, the roadway may shift and form new potholes or dips. Further, CHSR flows with the land and already has many curves, hills, and turns. The route becomes prime for car crashes when adding the dangers of ice, snow, slush, or rain.
Cell Coverage
Along the road, there is limited, and in many cases zero, cellular coverage. This means that calling for help could be nearly impossible in some instances. Additionally, emergency vehicles must make the drive to the crash location, generally taking longer than normal due to the distance and danger. Crash victims must be able to sustain themselves while waiting for help. It could also be hours before a crashed or broken-down vehicle sees another person.
It is imperative to plan when traveling CHSR. Tell a family member or friend when you expect to be home from a day hike or overnight at the hot springs. Pack a safety kit for your vehicle and expand by adding first aid supplies for more serious injuries. Store winter travel gear in your vehicle in case you are stranded for any reason. It may not seem cold during the day but Alaskan night temperatures are much colder.
If the weather is bad or predicted to be bad and you are not familiar with driving on Chena Hot Springs Road, opt out. The potential dangers to yourself and others are not worth the drive.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
