Popular types of activities in Gates of the Arctic National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Popular types of activities in Gates of the Arctic National Park

Gates of the Arctic National Park is located in the heart of Alaska’s Brooks Range and is known for its remote wilderness and spectacular scenery. The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, wolves, and wolverines. Visitors can explore the park through a variety of activities, such as hiking, camping, backpacking, and wildlife watching. There are also a number of ranger-led programs available, which provide an opportunity to learn more about the park’s unique ecosystem. In addition to its natural beauty, Gates of the Arctic is also known for its cultural significance. The park is home to a number of important archaeological sites, including the Iñupiaq village of Anaktuvuk Pass.

1. Hiking

When hiking in or near Gates of the Arctic, visitors can expect to experience a wide variety of landscapes and wildlife. Some of the most popular hiking trails in the area include the Gates of the Arctic Trail, the Butcher Bay Trail, and the Signal Ridge Trail. All of these trails offer stunning views of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and they are all well-maintained. Visitors can also expect to see a variety of wildlife while hiking in the area, including caribou, bears, and eagles.

2. Camping

Camping in or near Gates of the Arctic can be a great experience. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including bears, caribou, and wolves. Additionally, the area is abundant in natural beauty, including glaciers, lakes, and forests.

3. Hunting

When hunting in or near Gates of the Arctic, you can expect an abundance of game, including caribou, moose, elk, and deer. The area is also home to an abundance of predators, including wolves, bears, and eagles.

4. Fishing

Fishing in or near Gates of the Arctic can be a rewarding experience for those who are prepared for the challenge. The remote location of the park means that there is a limited number of spots where anglers can fish, and the waters can be quite cold. The best spots to find fish in Gates of the Arctic are likely to be in either of the two large lakes that are located within the park boundaries. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish including char, lake trout, and Arctic char.

5. Canoeing

Canoeing in or near Gates of the Arctic will expose you to some of the most beautiful and untouched wilderness in North America. You will travel through pristine waterways with towering peaks on either side, surrounded by wildlife and untouched by humans. The experience is exhilarating and you will likely feel as though you have been transported to a different world.

6. Kayaking

Kayaking in or near Gates of the Arctic is a great way to experience the stunning scenery and wildlife. You may see whales, porpoises, seals, and other animals while paddling. You may also see beautiful landscapes, including glaciers and estuaries.

7. Photography

When photographing in or near Gates of the Arctic, you can expect stunning scenery, wildlife, and landscapes. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including caribou, grizzly bears, and wolves. You will also find vast expanses of ice and snow, which makes for beautiful photos.

8. Wildlife watching

When Wildlife watching in or near Gates of the Arctic, visitors can expect to see a variety of animals, including caribou, bears, eagles, and moose. Visitors can also expect to hear the sound of animals, such as caribou grazing, bears hunting, and eagles soaring.