|
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve – an Introduction
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is one of the popular U.S. National Parks located in the state of Alaska. With an area of 13,238 sq. miles, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is the second largest national parks in USA. Established on December 2, 1980, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is unique in many senses. It is the unique national park that is the home to about 1,500 people, who reside in 10 small communities. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve has no established roads, trails, campgrounds as well as even no proper visitor facilities.
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is full of varied geographical characteristics. The aręte-peaked Brooks Range and the rolling valleys of wild tundra are the two of the notable features of this national park of U.S. One can also find mountains like Arrigetch Peaks and Mount Igikpak in this national park. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is also the home to six Wild and Scenic Rivers, which include Alatna River, John River, Kobuk River, the North Fork of the Koyukuk River, part of the Noatak River and Tinayguk River. In the park, one can find faunas like black bears, Dall sheep, moose, wolves, barren-ground grizzlies and caribou. There is also a small visitor center in nearby Coldfoot.
Visiting Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is truly a remote wilderness area. There are no established roads. The nearest road is Dalton Highway, which comes within 5 miles of the park. Most visitors prefer to come here by bush plane. Some may also prefer to hike from the Dalton Highway. Hiking from the village of Anaktuvuk Pass is also pretty common.
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is unique in many senses. This is the place to explore the raw nature. Go for adventure, enjoy the panoramic valley, and explore the rugged beauties of the mountains – you will truly enjoy the place.
Hiking: There is no established trail in Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. Therefore, you need to do proper planning before you go for hiking. However, this is perhaps one place where you will find raw nature at its best.
Birdwatching: Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is a nice place for the birdwatchers. Due to the endless summer light, this U.S. national park is the summer destination of a number of migratory birds. You can see about 145 species of birds in this park.
Opening Hours
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve remains open throughout the year.
Fairbanks Administrative Center: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.
Bettles Ranger Station & Visitor Center: mid-June to September, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Coldfoot Ranger Station: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to noon & 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Arctic Interagency Visitor Center: Memorial Day to Labor Day, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
|
