Best things to do in Gates of the Arctic National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Camping Tents and High Mountain View
Image credit: alexbrylov / 123rf

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is famous for being the largest and most northern national park in the United States. The park is located in the Arctic region of Alaska and is known for its wilderness and remote location. Visitors to the park can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including caribou, grizzly bears, and wolves.

1. Explore the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve - The largest national park in the United States, Gates of the Arctic is home to an incredible variety of wildlife and natural beauty

The visitor can explore the park by hiking, biking, or driving. There are numerous visitor centers and museums where visitors can learn about the park's history and natural resources. The visitor can also take a ranger-led tour to see some of the park's most popular attractions.

2. Take a scenic flightseeing tour - Gates of the Arctic is one of the most remote and beautiful places on earth, and a scenic flight is the best way to see it all

When a visitor takes a scenic flightseeing tour of Gates of the Arctic, they will feel like they are in a world of their own. The remote location of the park combined with the beautiful views will make for an unforgettable experience.

3. Hike or backpack in the park - With over 7 million acres of wilderness to explore, there are endless possibilities for hikes and backpacking trips in Gates of the Arctic

From easy hikes near the visitor center to more challenging hikes in the park's backcountry, there is a hike or backpack route for everyone. Some visitors might enjoy hiking in the park's lush, green meadows while others might prefer a more rugged, mountainous hike. Regardless of the hike, all visitors can take in the stunning views of the Gates of the Arctic and the surrounding landscape.

4. Camp under the stars - There are no developed campgrounds in the park, so visitors must be prepared to camp in the backcountry

Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can only be reserved for a minimum of two nights. Campsites can only accommodate tents or small RV's. Visitors must be prepared for cold weather and lack of shade. The experience of camping in the backcountry is unique and adventurous. Campers must be prepared for cold weather and lack of shade. The view of the stars above is breathtaking.

5. Fish for arctic char or grayling - With pristine waters and abundant fish, Gates of the Arctic is a angler's paradise

Anglers can explore a variety of habitats in search of arctic char and grayling. The park is open year-round and offers a variety of fishing opportunities, including fly fishing for arctic char, trolling for grayling, and spinning for both.

6. Watch for wildlife - With caribou, bears, wolves, and many other animals, Gates of the Arctic is one of the best places in the world to see wildlife in its natural habitat

When someone visits the Gates of the Arctic National Park, they are likely to see caribou, bears, wolves, and other animals in their natural habitat. The visitor might see a caribou standing in the open, watching for predators; they might see a wolf stalking its prey; or they might see a group of bears scavenging for food. Watching wildlife in its natural habitat is one of the best things about visiting Gates of the Arctic National Park.