AMERICA’S WIDE-OPEN WONDERS

Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve

Remote Arctic wilderness
Alaska
Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve · NPS Photo / Sean Tevebaugh · Photo credits
A PLACE TO REMEMBER

Make room for the wonder.

Gates of the Arctic is a wilderness undertaking rather than a conventional sightseeing drive. Its mountains and river valleys reward travelers who prepare carefully and work with experienced local transport and guiding providers.

Aerial view of the Alatna River as it winds through a valley
Aerial view of the Alatna River as it winds through a valley
NPS Photo / Sean Tevebaugh · Photography credit
Alpenglow on the granite cliffs of mountains
A spring alpenglow brightens the granite walls of the Arrigetch Peaks
NPS Photo · Photography credit
BUILD YOUR OWN PARK DAY

Places to consider

  • 01Brooks Range landscapes
  • 02River journeys
  • 03Guided wilderness trips

Choose the stops that suit your time and your party. These are ideas for exploring, rather than a fixed itinerary or a promise that every road, trail or facility will be open.

Before you set out

There are no park roads or maintained visitor trails. Arrange transport, backcountry skills and contingency plans before committing to an itinerary.

Give the day room

Allow time for the approach, parking and breaks. Pick walks for the least mobile members of your party, and leave space for weather or a change of plans.

Bring your group

Confirm vehicle access, drop-off and parking with the park. Check any guided tours, transport and accessibility arrangements before fixing the rest of the itinerary.

Official park visitor guide ↗Current conditions ↗

Check the official NPS guide for current access, fees, passes, reservations and permits. Gateway names identify useful surrounding communities or access areas, not exact entrance directions. Photographs may show earlier seasons or conditions.