The Bering Land Bridge Visitor Center is currently closed due to renovations from January 1 to December 31. However, the preserve itself is open 24/7 year-round.
There is no entrance fee at Bering Land Bridge National Preserve. It is free to visit year-round.
From Nome, take a small bush plane or snowmobile north; no highways connect. Immerse in pristine wilderness, ancient migration routes, and volcanic landscapes near Kotzebue.
There are no specified parking options or lots at Bering Land Bridge National Preserve. Parking is not explicitly mentioned, and the preserve’s remote nature suggests limited formal parking facilities.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, situated on the Seward Peninsula in northwest Alaska, is a vast and untouched wilderness that whispers tales of a ancient past. This 2.8 million-acre expanse of tundra, established in 1978, protects the remnants of the Bering Land Bridge, a once-thousands-of-miles-wide plain that connected Asia and North America during the Pleistocene Epoch.
As you traverse this remote landscape, the silence is punctuated by the calls of Yellow-billed Loons and the rustle of Arctic flora swaying in the breeze. The preserve is a convergence point for three major migratory bird flyways, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The terrain, shaped by volcanic eruptions, permafrost, and ocean waves, features a series of barrier island-lagoon complexes that serve as nurseries for various marine life.
Inland, shallow lakes and majestic maar lakes like White Fish, Devil Mountain, and Killeak Lakes dot the landscape. These lakes, formed by local permafrost thaw and erosion, are home to an array of freshwater and anadromous fish. The seasonal changes paint the landscape in vibrant hues; summer brings lush greenery and an explosion of wildflowers, while autumn casts a golden glow over the tundra.
For the adventurous, camping, bird watching, hunting, and fishing are just a few ways to experience this wild land. Local outfitters offer guided tours, including ranger-led excursions that delve into the preserve’s rich archaeological and geological history. Hot springs, a popular attraction, provide a serene retreat after a day of exploration.
In the nearby town of Kotzebue, travelers can immerse themselves in Alaskan Native cultures through local artisans and traditional cuisine. While there are no historic lodges within the preserve, the rugged beauty and pristine wildness of Bering Land Bridge National Preserve ensure an unforgettable experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in one of America’s most isolated and breathtaking landscapes.
- Area (mi²)
- 4200
- Annual visitors
- 4 000
- Established year
- 1978
Top 3 Facts about Bering Land Bridge National Preserve
The land bridge, now submerged, emerged surprisingly late during the last ice age, around 35,700 years ago, when sea levels dropped low enough to expose the area, contrary to earlier estimates of 70,000 years ago.
In this vast, pristine expanse, grizzly bears, moose, and caribou roam freely, while wolves and polar bears make occasional appearances. Arctic ground squirrels, foxes, and hares dot the landscape. The skies are filled with migrating birds, including plovers, jaegers, and gyrfalcons. Offshore, bowhead and beluga whales, along with walruses, inhabit the waters. This harsh yet breathtaking environment is a testament to the resilience of nature, where ancient volcanic remnants and prehistoric sites coexist with modern wildlife.
In this Arctic wilderness, lakes filled with crystal-clear water dot the landscape, surrounded by rolling hills and unique geological formations such as lake-filled maars and recent lava flows. The area is marked by shallow hot springs, a rare contrast to the harsh, cold temperatures of the region. Here, the Earth’s surface reveals its ancient history, with sea levels once 280 to 350 feet lower during the late Wisconsinan glacial episode.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Arts & Crafts
- Family Camping & Overnight
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan for several days to explore this vast, remote terrain. Arrive in Nome, visit the Visitor Center, and prepare for rugged trails and limited amenities. Mosquito protection is a must in summer, while winter travel may involve skis or dog sleds. Time your visit around the Iditarod for a unique experience. Pack layers, sturdy footwear, and sufficient food. Rest frequently and enjoy the solitude.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers: thermal base, quick-dry hiking gear, fleece, and waterproof outerwear. Include warm hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sturdy boots. Bring a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures and a portable stove if camping. Don’t forget hand and foot warmers, and a power bank for electronics.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance of 25-100 yards from animals, 300 yards from bears. Move quietly, except in bear territory where noise is advised. Respect natural habitats and follow Leave No Trace principles. Bring a telephoto lens to minimize disturbance.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about changing weather, follow marked trails, and exercise caution near water and ledges. Carry a two-way communication device and know emergency contact numbers. Check fire restrictions and local regulations before your adventure. Pack layers and stay hydrated. Be prepared for unpredictable conditions.
Seasons
Experience the raw beauty of Alaska’s wilderness in spring, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 40°F. Witness the Iditarod sled dog race finish in March, and enjoy camping, bird watching, and hiking amidst thawing landscapes and vibrant wildflowers. Spring brings mild weather and unique adventures, but be prepared for unpredictable conditions.
Explore vast tundras and volcanic landscapes in the summer, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F. Attend ranger programs in June and July, and witness the annual migration of over a hundred species. Ideal for backpacking, fishing, and wildlife encounters amidst mild summer weather.
Experience the rugged beauty of northwest Alaska’s tundra in fall, with crisp temperatures (20s-40s°F) and the Northern Lights. Though remote, it’s ideal for solitude and witnessing the annual bird migration. Visit in September or October for unparalleled wilderness and cultural immersion.
Experience Arctic winters from October to April, with temperatures often below 0°F and as low as -50°F. Short days, heavy snow, and icy conditions create a surreal landscape, ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a unique, extreme winter experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Bering Land Bridge National Preserve has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Bering Land Bridge National Preserve is Nome, Alaska, which is about 100 miles away. Nome serves as the main hub for accessing the preserve.
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The most scenic hiking trail offers views from ridgelines and limestone hills, providing fast and relatively easy travel with minimal brush and excellent visibility. Hiking on headlands above the beaches gives outstanding views across the Arctic Ocean, nearly to the Russian coast.
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Yes, you can bring your dog, but it must be on a leash of six feet or less at all times. Access to the preserve varies by season, with summer access by small airplane, boat, or foot, and winter access mainly by bush planes on skis or dog sleds.
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You cannot park an RV directly at the preserve. Instead, you can travel in an RV to nearby locations and then access the preserve from there. RVs are not suitable for the preserve’s remote and fragile terrain.
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You can go camping, hiking, and backpacking across the vast terrain. Enjoy activities like fishing, hunting, and trapping, as well as birdwatching and wildlife viewing, including seeing reindeer, muskoxen, and polar bears. In the summer, participate in ranger programs, and during winter, explore by skis, snowmobile, or dog sled.