The Fairbanks Alaska Public Lands Information Center is open year-round, Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Bettles Ranger Station, Anaktuvuk Pass Ranger Station, and Arctic Interagency Visitor Center are open seasonally from summer to early fall, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The Fairbanks Headquarters Office is open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
There is no entrance fee to visit Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. However, visitors are requested to attend a backcountry orientation at one of the park’s visitor centers.
From Fairbanks, drive 280 miles north on the Dalton Highway, then fly in via air taxi or hike from Coldfoot, immersing yourself in untouched Arctic wilderness.
There are no paved parking areas or designated parking lots within Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. You can park anywhere along the Dalton Highway, but not on private property. No overnight parking fees; parking is permitted but limited by accessibility. No specific RV or motorcycle restrictions.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the vast expanse of northern Alaska, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve stands as a testament to untouched wilderness, a realm where the boundaries between nature and human presence blur. Located entirely north of the Arctic Circle, this park is the northernmost national park in the United States, spanning an immense 8,472,506 acres. Here, wild rivers like the Alatna and Noatak meander through glacier-carved valleys, their waters home to an array of fish species.
The landscape is dotted with iconic formations such as the Gates of the Arctic, a geological landmark consisting of Frigid Crags and Boreal Mountain, which frame the entrance to this Arctic paradise. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with sightings of grizzly bears, wolves, muskox, caribou, and Dall sheep common. The skies are alive with birdlife, and the aurora-lit nights of winter offer a celestial spectacle unlike any other.
To experience this untrammeled wilderness, visitors often arrive via bush plane in the small town of Bettles, home to the Gates of the Arctic National Park Visitor Center and the historic Bettles Lodge. Summer brings endless light, perfect for backpacking, paddling, and hiking through the pristine landscapes. Late fall and winter offer the breathtaking Northern Lights and the opportunity for dog sledding and cross-country skiing.
There are no established trails or roads here, only the age-old paths of caribou migrations and the quiet wisdom of a land untouched for millennia. For those seeking an immersive experience, local outfitters offer guided excursions, including ranger-led paddling trips down the wild and scenic rivers. The park’s remote beauty is a siren call to those who crave adventure and solitude in one of the world’s most unique and untouched environments.
- Area (mi²)
- 13238
- Annual visitors
- 11 907
- Established year
- 1978
Top 3 Facts about Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
The Alatna River, the northernmost navigable river in North America, flows for over 160 miles through the park, highlighting its unique geographical features. Average winter snowfall ranges from 60-80 inches, with temperatures as low as -67°F.
In this vast, untouched wilderness, nearly 500,000 Western Arctic caribou migrate through glacier-carved valleys each fall. Brown and black bears, wolves, Dall sheep, lynx, and wolverines inhabit the landscape year-round. Rivers teem with fish, while falcons, golden eagles, and snow geese soar overhead. Wildflowers bloom briefly in the tundra, and muskoxen roam the northern slopes. This pristine environment, devoid of human facilities, offers a raw and unbridled natural experience for the adventurous traveler.
In this untamed wilderness, glacier-carved valleys are traversed by six Wild and Scenic Rivers, including the Alatna and Noatak, whose crystal-clear waters Reflect the stark beauty of surrounding mountains that rise to over 7,000 feet. The landscape is a tapestry of boreal forest and arctic tundra, with rugged peaks and lakes set against a backdrop of endless summer light and aurora-lit winter skies.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a 5-7 day trip during the summer solstice for optimal daylight. Fly into Bettles, then take a charter to the park. Visit the visitor center, prepare for rugged terrain, and pack meals as options are limited. Rest regularly and bring essential gear.
Pack Appropriately
Pack thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, and warm accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves. Bring layered socks, sturdy hiking boots, and sunglasses for sun protection. For longer stays, include camping gear and extra batteries for cold weather. Check the season for specific needs.
Respect Wildlife
Avoid trails, camp on gravel bars, and keep 150 feet from water sources. Never approach or disturb wildlife, and leave the landscape untouched to preserve the delicate ecosystem. Respect local guides’ instructions and the natural environment.
Stay Informed
Leave a detailed trip plan with friends, including your route and expected return date. Stay informed about weather conditions and park rules. Carry a two-way communication device and know the emergency contact number: 911 or the park’s ranger station. Exercise caution on trails, near ledges, and around water. Pack layers for changing temperatures and be prepared for river crossings. Stay hydrated and aware of your surroundings. Turn back if uncertain or tired.
Seasons
In spring, witness the caribou migration from March to May, with temperatures ranging from 10°F to 40°F. Experience crisp air and potential snow, making it ideal for adventurous travelers seeking untouched wilderness.
Experience the Arctic summer from June to September, with temperatures ranging from snow to 90°F. Witness the Midnight Sun and abundant wildlife. Ideal for backpacking, river travel, and solitude. Be prepared for variable weather and remote adventures.
In the fall, from September to October, experience crisp temperatures (20s-40s°F) and golden landscapes. Join the fall hunting season, or float rivers amidst vibrant foliage and wildlife. Solitude and stark beauty define this Arctic autumn, though days are short and weather unpredictable.
Winter beckons with temperatures often below -20°F, icy landscapes, and frequent snow. From November to March, experience the raw beauty of the Arctic, but be prepared for extreme cold and limited daylight. For the hardened adventurer, this season offers a unique, untouched wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Gates of the Arctic National Park and 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 with full services and a large airport is Fairbanks, which is about a seven-hour drive from the park’s southeastern boundary. Fairbanks is located 280 miles south of the town of Coldfoot, just outside the park.
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The most scenic hiking route is from Anaktuvuk Pass to the Haul Road, which includes traveling up the Anaktuvuk River, through Ernie Pass, and into the North Fork Koyukuk River. This route features the scenic tributary valleys of the Anaktuvuk River and the headwaters of the Anaktuvuk River. Another notable area is the Arrigetch Peaks, known for its awesome scenery.
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Yes, you must keep your dog on a leash that is no longer than six feet at all times. This rule applies to both the park and the communities of Bettles and Anaktuvuk Pass. Leaving your dog unattended or unrestrained is not allowed.
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You can park your camper, motorhome, or trailer anywhere within the park as long as it is not on private property. There are no paved parking areas or specific campsites, and you need to be careful not to park on private land. Accessing the park is typically done by flying in or hiking, as there are no roads inside the park.
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To get there, you can fly into the park using small aircraft from Fairbanks, Alaska, to gateway communities like Bettles and Anaktuvuk Pass. Another option is to drive the Dalton Highway to Coldfoot and then hike a short distance into the park, though this requires a vehicle that can handle gravel roads. Hiking in from the Dalton Highway or Anaktuvuk Pass is also possible, but there are no trails and river crossings are necessary.
