Eagle Summit

The feel

Eagle Summit is the highest point on the Steese Highway, an exposed summit with alpine tundra views in every direction and frequently high winds. It is milepost 107, about a 2.5-hour drive from Fairbanks under good driving conditions.

Around the summer solstice it is one of Alaska's very few road-accessible places below the Arctic Circle where you can see the midnight sun. People come out from Fairbanks and make a celebration of it. An accessible interpretive loop trail leads to an observation deck near the trailhead, where the 27-mile Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail begins.

What to expect

What it is

The highest point on the Steese Highway and the start of the Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail, with an accessible interpretive loop trail and an observation deck.

Crowds and best time

The midnight sun is visible from approximately June 17 to June 24, weather permitting. The sun reaches its lowest point in the sky at approximately 1:45 a.m.

Parking

A parking area at the trailhead; the midnight sun can be seen from the lot, a nearby knoll and points along the trail.

Kids

The interpretive loop trail is accessible.

Hazards

Frequently high winds on an exposed summit. Go prepared for all types of weather.

Bathrooms and water

A toilet at the trailhead.

Season and access

Paved to gravel on the Steese Highway at milepost 107. The loop trail and the Pinnell Mountain trail are closed to motorized vehicles.

Mingo says

Go around the solstice if you want the midnight sun, and wait for a clear sky. Stay up past midnight, because the sun stays in view all night.

Before you go

• Bring plenty of mosquito repellent.
• Pack layers and wind protection for an exposed summit in all types of weather.
• Plan about a 2.5-hour drive from Fairbanks under good driving conditions.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.