| |
|
 |
|
| |
Plan a Road Trip > Explore America > National Parks > Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve |
|
|
| |
|
| |
PO Box 26030, Bettles, AK 99726
Phone: 907-692-5494 or 907-456-0281
Fax: 907-692-5400
Open All Year
Overview. The granite and limestone crags of the Central Brooks Range, at the northern reaches of the Rocky Mountains, rise over 7,000 feet into the arctic sky. Lofty Boreal Mountain and Frigid Crags are the sentinels that give Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve its name. This park, located north of the Arctic Circle and encompassing over eight million acres, preserves the fragile arctic wilderness for generations to come. Approximately 4,000 visitors a year come to experience the solitude of its mountains, tundra, wild rivers and pristine lakes. Gates of the Arctic is a wilderness park with no developed facilities or trails. Most fly in from Fairbanks and Bettles, although the Dalton Highway passes close enough to gain access. All travel requires careful planning and route selection. Anaktuvuk Pass, a Nunamuit Eskimo village, is located within the park.
What to see and do. Hardy backpackers and rafters find the rugged beauty of the park well worth its challenge. Visitors should know the techniques for minimum impact camping, river crossing safety, and camping in grizzly bear habitat. Cross-country skiing, dogsledding, and rock and mountain climbing are also favorite activities of park visitors. Fishing is allowed with an Alaska fishing license, and all state regulations apply. Catch-and-release fishing is preferred. Sport hunting is allowed in the preserve areas with the proper license and under state regulations.
Ranger stations are located at Bettles, Coldfoot, and Anaktuvuk Pass, but offer no formal visitor facilities. Backcountry orientation is available at the ranger stations. Visitors are asked to check in at Bettles or Coldfoot, or call 907-692-5494 before entering the park.
Seasonal Alert: The park is open all year, but freezing conditions may occur in any season, including summer. Visitors should be prepared for arctic conditions, and should be thoroughly prepared for and experienced in wilderness survival. Hypothermia is always a threat. All water must be treated. Bring insect repellent and mosquito netting if you are visiting during the summer months.
Search All National Parks
Please call ahead to confirm details. We do our best to give you current information, but facts can change. Please let us know if you find something's changed.
|
|
|
|
