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Explore Human History And Wildlife With Backcountry Camping In Gates Of The Arctic National Park

Explore Human History And Wildlife With Backcountry Camping In Gates Of The Arctic National Park

Aug 12, 2024

Last Updated on: Jun 12, 2025

Gates of the Arctic National Park is where the Brooks Range and the Tundra landscape come to life with wilderness and vivid topography. This national park is a place of topographical diversity with the coexistence of mountains, glaciers, rivers, lakes, and marshy lands.

A home to nomadic people for more than 13,000 years, the Gates of the Arctic is a prominent example of how human lives can be dependent on wilderness or nature.

Many visitors love backpacking and trekking in this national park. Further, many stay in camps in the backcountry to experience its rich wildlife despite the challenges.

Do you want to know why camping in the backcountry is worth the hardship? Does the national park have camping sites?

Find the answers to all your questions in this guide.

Knowing The Gates Of The Arctic National Park (Why Camping Here Is A Great Experience)

The Gates Of The Arctic National Park is a paradise for wilderness travelers. The intriguing land of Tundra, embraced by jungles, mountains, and rivers, makes camping in the backcountry worth all the effort.

Gates Of The Arctic Geography

You can explore the arctic geography of this national park by trekking or by air. Tundra peaks and the Schwatka Mountains region of the Brooks Range ensure a humbling experience. You trek to Mount Igikpak, a glacier-carved peak with an 8,510-foot elevation. Another mountain to have glaciers in this region is Mount Arrigetch.

Even backpacking and trekking to Mount Doonerak have a distinct charm, as the mountain is the quintessence of wilderness and unadulterated beauty.

Further, this national park has six designated wild rivers. Those are:

Alatna River
John River
Kobuk River
Noatak River
North Fork of the Koyukuk River
Tinayguk River

Alatna and Noatak are great for canoeing. If you want more adventurous pursuits, you can try rafting in Nigu (to the north) and Kobuk (to the west).

Gates Of The Arctic Wildlife

The Gates of the Arctic is home to many mammals and birds. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game says,

“Forested southern foothills rise to limestone and granite peaks more than 7,000 feet high in this remote wilderness park. North of the peaks, clear water rivers run through glacier-carved valleys; and Tundra, covered with wildflowers during the brief northern summer, stretches toward the Arctic Ocean. Many of the nearly 500,000 member Western Arctic caribou herd migrate through the park each fall. Brown and black bear, wolf, Dall sheep, lynx, moose, wolverine, and red fox live here year-round. In the spring, the park hosts migratory birds from Europe, South America, Asia, tropical archipelagos, and the continental U.S.”

Other animals found in this national park are grizzly bears, Dall sheep, and musk oxen. Among the birds, Tundra swans, common loons, and golden eagles are the most common.

Further, if you enjoy the playfulness of aquatic animals, watch out for graylings, trouts, sheefish and salmon.

Gates Of The Arctic And Human History

The Gates of the Arctic is a prominent place for archaeological research. The study and interpretations of the museum collections depict how people have been surviving in the Brooks Range for around 13000 years now.

Along with Inupiat, Nunamiut, and Athapaskan descendants, you will also find many non-native Alaskan people in this region. These people have always been dependent on fishing and hunting. The wilderness of the Gates of the Arctic is the foundation of their livelihood.

What Is The Best Camping Near Gates Of The Arctic National Park?

With marshy lands and tussocks, Arctic Tundra has a vulnerable landscape and it is difficult to find a steady spot for setting up camps or tents. Also, the existence of wildlife in a remote location and dense vegetation make the space unsuitable for camping.

So, there is NO CAMPING SITE in the Gates of the Arctic National Park.

There are designated areas in the backcountry for camping. However, you will have to strictly adhere to the rules and regulations of the national park when putting up a tent.

You must also attend the orientation program and be particular about the gear, food, and safety essentials to be carried.

With permission from the park authority and the National Park Service, you can set up tents near the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center in Coldfoot or around Wiseman and Bettles communities.

However, while camping in the backcountry, you will have to keep the following factors in mind.

Be respectful to the local communities like the Koyukon Athabascan Indians or Nunamiut. Their livelihood depends on the wilderness.
There are no provisions for running water, a dump station, or restrooms.
Your phone network will be unavailable in this location.
You have to carry all your trash back as you leave the camping site. You cannot adulterate the pristineness of the location.

If you have plans for camping in the backcountry near the Gates of the Arctic, summer is the best season. The temperature is a little moderate on these days, and sunnier days make all outdoor pursuits in the park easier for you.

Did You Know?

The Gates of the Arctic National Park is the second-largest national park in the USA.
It stretches over 13,000 square miles.
You can see aurora borealis from this park if you visit between November and March.
July and August are the best months to visit Gates of the Arctic National Park for hiking and backpacking.
Bob Marshall, a wilderness advocate, named this national park “Gates of the Arctic.”

Final Words

Unlike popular national parks like the Biscayne National Park or the Kenai Fjords National Park, the Gates of the Arctic National Park does not have many visitors yearly. In 2023, only 11,045 tourists flocked to this place. (Source)

With a diversity in topography and wildlife and an association with human history, this park has much to explore. However, the extreme trekking conditions and wilderness make it far from an easy excursion or trekking experience.

Despite the absence of campgrounds in this park, you can camp in the backcountry at the designated spots in the fields. However, only an experienced backpacker should try it with proper orientation and extra safety measures.

Have you ever been to this wild and intriguing national park? Do you have any camping experience in the backcountry? Don’t forget to share your experience with us!

Gates Of The Arctic National Park FAQs

Can You Camp In The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge?

Only backcountry camping is possible in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The absence of roads, villages, or facilities makes this area unsuitable for having designated campsites.

Backpacking and hiking are the best ways to explore this vast landscape with rich wildlife and geographical interests.

Can You Stay In Gates Of The Arctic National Park?

You can stay or try backcountry camping near the Gates of the Arctic National Park. Undefined terrains, wilderness, and a lack of modern amenities make it risky to put up camps in the national park.

Even to camp in the backcountry, you will need the highest outdoor survival skills. The arctic ecosystem, topography, and weather conditions are different, and if you are confident enough to stay in the backcountry, plan in advance and get in touch with the Park and Preserve authorities for updates and advisories.

How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Gates Of The Arctic National Park?

You don’t have to pay entry fees to visit the Gates of The Arctic National Park. However, you must attend the backcountry orientation program at any of the visitor centers.

In this way, the Gates of The Arctic National Park is different from other national parks as most of them demand an entrance fee.

How Difficult Is It To Get To The Gates Of The Arctic National Park?

The Gates of the Arctic is a wilderness park. So, as you enter the park, hiking is the best way to explore. Remember, it is home to the Schwatka Mountains region of the Brooks Range and the highest peak here is Mount Igikpak with an 8,510-foot elevation.

So, exploring the national park is not going to be a cakewalk. A lack of established trails further makes hiking difficult.

Further, there are six designated rivers, including Koyukuk and Dietrich, in this national park. So, you will have to pass through multiple meandering river crossings. The water levels of these rivers keep fluctuating throughout the season. They are furious throughout the spring season.

Tussocks, marshy lands and dense vegetation are other hurdles to your fast movement while trekking.

Do you want to visit the backcountry? You can take a bush plane operated by permitted pilots with knowledge of the region.

What Is Special About Gates Of The Arctic?

The Gates of the Arctic is special because of its geographical uniqueness, rich wildlife, and significance in human history.

The glacier-carved valleys, rivers, and ancient trails make the Gates Of The Arctic a favorite destination for backpacking and hiking.

Thanks to its geographical typicalness, you will meet many animals and birds. The adorable grizzly bears will be seen feeding, and the musk oxen are another unique animal you must watch out for. If you are a birder, you will love watching the golden eagles, Tundra swans, or common loons.

Near the Nigu River or throughout the park, you will find stone fences and camping rings. These are a testament to how Inland Eskimos or Nunamiut have lived in this region for thousands of years. They survived on fishing and hunting.

In addition, as I pen this guide, I must tell you that the Gates Of The Arctic National Park is going to celebrate its 45th anniversary of designation next year. First, it became a national monument on 1st December 1978. In 1980, it became a national park and preserve.

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Sibashree Bhattacharya

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

Style Meets Adventure: Top 10 Must Have Travel Essentials for Her

BY Abdul Aziz Jan 17, 2024

Effective travel gear can make all the difference between a hassle-free vacation and a chaotic trip, saving you both time and money. Investing in the necessary items to bring when traveling can prove to be a wise thing for women. It goes without saying that you should pack items that will hold up over time and make it easier to navigate through your travel plans. We made a list of a few lightweight yet necessary travel essentials for women. If you are planning a trip, check the list to make sure you have them all handy. Travel Essentials For Women Going on a trip is exciting. The prospect of all the new experiences is sure to get you all worked up. Packing for your travel should not add to your woes. We are enlisting the travel essentials for women that will keep you updated while scampering through any landscape and climate. Backpack A girl (or anyone for that matter) needs her trusty backpack whether she's or just exploring the streets of Singapore. Something lightweight and durable that can protect your gear or items from light rain/snow while also allowing easy access to your travel essentials kit. So, make sure you have the perfect bag for day trips and hikes that can carry all of your gear. We strongly advise you to invest in a light backpack to help you unload your load and avoid sweat on your back. Safety Gear Bring safety gear that is specifically designed to keep you safe when driving for peace of mind. With everything from a safety pepper spray to portable door locks, travel to new and foreign places with confidence. These are our recommendations for safety gear in relation to women's travel necessities. Nearly all doors, including those in motels and rental properties, are designed to work with a portable door lock. Without the need for tools, portable door locks are easily installed in a matter of seconds. Door stoppers are a fantastic backup plan to door locks in order to keep burglars from sneaking into your rental or hotel room. Carrying an emergency whistle is a straightforward but efficient way to request assistance. An emergency whistle can serve many purposes, such as warning off potential attackers and signaling for assistance in unanticipated situations like becoming lost in the middle of the forest. Having an automobile safety hammer comes in handy in the event of an accident or other dangerous circumstance if you intend to hitchhike or spend a lot of time traveling in cars. A few car safety hammers also have concealed blades that you can use to pry open seat belts. Being a woman, safety gear becomes indispensable for most travel needs. It is definitely on the list of travel essentials for women. Internet Access Obtaining internet access to stay online while traveling internationally is akin to discovering gold in the middle of nowhere. An internet connection is probably one of the most crucial travel essentials for women in today's world. Even if you're on vacation looking for a relaxing experience, you still have the desire to stay in touch with your loved ones just to see how they're doing. Also, who can deny the importance of social media? How would you Instagram all of your cool photos and selfies from your trip? And how on earth would you navigate unfamiliar roads without Google Maps? We recommend that you get a to solve all of these issues. This allows you to stay in touch with family and close friends while also keeping up with current events. Clothes Needless to say, you will need a lot of clothes. There will be days when you will go to the beach and days when you will go hiking on your itinerary, so be prepared to dress for all occasions. If you're traveling to Southeast Asia or the Middle East, don't worry about having a complete closet when boarding the flight. There will be plenty of opportunities to shop without breaking the bank. Makeup Travel Kit Another item to make it into the list of travel essentials for women would be a travel makeup kit. We are all aware of the significance of makeup for a woman's travel kit. After all, if you are taking pictures at some of the most well-known landmarks in the world, you need to look stunning. Therefore, we highly advise that you bring a multi-pocket travel bag to organize all of your essential makeup, lotions, and toiletries in one convenient location. It saves time that would be better spent experiencing the great outdoors by making everything easily accessible! Menstrual Kit Periods arrive uninvited and with no regard for your travel plans, so chances are you'll be taking several trips while on or expecting your period. Carrying menstrual cups has lately become a part of the travel essentials for women if you're on your period. It's environmentally friendly, cheap, and apparently comfortable once you get the hang of it. It also saves space in your luggage and eliminates the unnecessary stress of using sanitary pads. Kindle If so, you will undoubtedly be looking to fill the time when you have free time during your vacation by reading some excellent literature. Therefore, we heartily urge you to buy an Amazon Kindle, as it will literally save your life in terms of luggage space during your travels. You don't need to bring along a lot of books because you can access hundreds of e-books on a single, lightweight, portable device. You'll also save money on a Kindle when compared to iPads or other tablets. Power Bank Taking a lot of photos and using Google Maps on your smartphone can quickly deplete its battery. Without your phone, you will be completely lost. Therefore, a small power bank with a large battery life is among the travel necessities for women that we suggest. Skincare And Hygiene Kit With travel-sized hygiene and cosmetic kits, you can stay in a minimalist travel mode and rejuvenate yourself while traveling. If you plan to travel and plan to bring items like perfume and makeup on the plane, abide by the TSA's guidelines regarding liquids. Worry about messes with your hair and liquids? One of a woman traveler's best friends is a dry shampoo. Travel-sized bottles of shampoos, conditioners, and body wash are all part of the hygiene kits offered by many cosmetic brands. When traveling, make sure to maintain your skincare regimen. Use moisturizers and face mist to stay hydrated. Use face wipes and cleansers to keep your skin clean from dirt. When traveling for extended periods of time, pack a feminine wash or even feminine wipes as quick refreshments. There are numerous small and convenient options for beauty kits at a variety of price points. Pick any of your choices. Shoes Similar to clothing, wearing a variety of shoes aids in navigating various terrains. After a long day of traveling hundreds of kilometers, there's nothing better than kicking off your walking or trekking shoes and switching to something more cozy, like sandals or flip-flops. Expert Tips If the concept of minimalist travel appeals to you, the 5-4-3-2-1 guidelines can assist you in determining how many clothes you should pack for a 10-day trip. Plan your clothes in the following order: 5 pairs of underwear and socks 4 breathable tops 3 cozy bottom wear 2 pairs of shoes suitable for traveling Add a hat to finish it off Next, make sure your suitcase or travel backpack fits your necessities properly. Select clothes that are adaptable, simple to combine and match, and have multiple uses. Wrapping Up Packing like a pro and traveling comfortably can be achieved by being aware of and honing your list of must-have items for women travelers. Travelers may have different must-haves while on the road. Still, the necessities listed above are excellent suggestions for your upcoming journey. Make sure to plan your pre-trip activities thoroughly and enjoy your travels. What are your travel essentials? If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about travel essentials for women, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: A Backpacker’s Guide: Must-Have Camping Essentials The Ultimate Guide To Things To Do In Salt Lake City! Natural Wonder: Top 11 Best Landscape Places In The World

Exploring Pigeon Forge As A Weekend Getaway

BY Ankita Nov 18, 2023

Pigeon Forge is a scenic refuge that effortlessly blends natural tranquility with vibrant entertainment. This charming Tennessee town is an ideal spot for a weekend getaway. The ease of access and well-maintained roads ensure your journey is as pleasurable as your stay. Pigeon Forge is jam-packed with weekend activities like exhilarating rides at Dollywood, serene trails in the neighboring Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and luxury shopping at The Island. The town extends a warm invitation to you to pause from the every day and smell the fresh mountain air. Arrange your itinerary with these things to do in Pigeon Forge for thrills and an outstanding weekend escapade! Arriving In Pigeon Forge Journeying through Pigeon Forge is a visual treat. As you navigate the winding roads, each turn reveals the Smoky Mountains' grandeur. The lush greenery and the soft murmur of the Little Pigeon River escort you through a rustic expedition. The appearance of quaint cabins in the morning mist signals your arrival into this enchanting town. Pigeon Forge truly extends itself when it comes to lodging options that are ready to cater to your varied preferences and budgets. Seeking a cozy retreat? Visit Hearthside Cabin Rentals for rustic cabins that blend modern comfort with a charming old-world ambiance. On the flip side, if you are looking for a touch of luxury, Pigeon Forge doesn't disappoint. Luxurious resorts like Oak Haven Resort & Spa offer plush accommodations and indulgent amenities. From rejuvenating spas to gourmet dining, they ensure a lavish and comforting stay. Day One: Immerse In Natural Beauty As dawn breaks, Pigeon Forge's alarm is the sweet tune of nature. Begin your morning at a local eatery, where the scents of fresh coffee complement the hearty offerings of a Tennessee traditional breakfast. The friendly chatter of locals at spots like Reagan's House of Pancakes or the Old Mill Restaurant adds a warm touch to your hearty meal. French toast, sizzling bacon, and fluffy biscuits are ready to fuel your adventure! Next, prepare to hit the trails of the Great Smoky Mountains. The nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park opens up a world of tranquil hiking trails and nature walks. Every step along these paths brings you more in tune with nature. The sounds of bird songs, rustling leaves, and bubbling brooks are a gentle reminder of the world outside the urban hustle. The afternoon provides a chance for a scenic picnic. Places like Cades Cove offer stunning panoramic views for a leisurely meal. As you lay out your picnic blanket, the vast expanse of rolling hills creates a surreal setting. The hours gently roll by with each moment spent in the unspoiled beauty of the hills and meadows near Pigeon Forge. As dusk arrives, head to the neighboring town of Gatlinburg for a satisfying meal at a cozy mountain-side diner. Restaurants like the Cliff Top Grill at Anakeesta offer a menu as attractive as the panoramic views from your table. Post dinner, enjoy watching the sunset from places like the Gatlinburg Space Needle or Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. The setting sun painting the sky and sinking behind the endless ridges is the perfect way to end your day. Day Two: Adventure And Entertainment Day two promises even more Pigeon Forge adventures. Start the morning at a famed local bakery, like The Donut Friar, where the aroma of fresh croissants and cinnamon twists sets a cheerful tone for the day. After some donuts and a hot cup of coffee, you're fueled up for a heart-pounding adventure at Dollywood. This iconic amusement park symbolizes the spirit of Pigeon Forge. The exhilarating rides and the echoing laughter are infectious. If you fancy a different kind of amusement park, venture out to the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster or Rowdy Bear Mountain in Pigeon Forge. Both are guaranteed to add excitement to your day. Afternoon Shopping And Exploration How about a leisurely stroll in the warm glow of the afternoon sun? The Island in Pigeon Forge offers a captivating blend of retail, dining, and entertainment. The water fountains and the moving crowd provide a lively backdrop as you pop into quaint boutiques and specialty shops. Make your next stop at The Village Shops in Gatlinburg. This "European hamlet" is a charming reconstruction of an old-world village. Its cobbled walkways lead you to a collection of unique shops where you'll find hand-crafted gifts, local artwork, and delightful souvenirs. Evening Of Leisure Once the daylight transitions to a soft evening glow, it's time to satisfy your appetite with a heartwarming dinner at one of the local eateries. Many of them offer live music. You could also attend one of the famed dinner shows like Dolly Parton's Stampede. The blend of music, food, and theatrical performances is an exhilarating yet satisfying way to close out your day. Day Three: Relax And Reflect Enjoy a relaxing day of reflection in Pigeon Forge as your weekend comes to an end. Begin with a late morning brunch at the Local Goat, where the freshest ingredients, international wine selection, and large HDTVs bring the whole family together. After brunch, visit a local spa or wellness center. The Spa at RiverStone Resort comes highly recommended. The gentle aroma of essential oils and the skilled hands of massage therapists work together to melt away any stress and rejuvenate your spirit. In the evening, find a secluded location along Little Pigeon River and listen to the gentle hum of the water flowing over the rocks. The soft rustle of leaves and the occasional chirp of birds create a delightful serenade that will drift in your memory for many nights to come. In Conclusion Each day in Pigeon Forge reads like a new chapter, whether it's the peaceful nature walks, the heart-pounding amusement parks, or the wellness retreats. The blend of beauty and excitement creates memories that stay with you long after you depart. The weekend may have whisked by, but the thrill of new discoveries urges you to plan your next Pigeon Forge getaway. So, if you seek a simple break from the daily grind, Pigeon Forge invites you to create lasting memories in the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) Cooking In Dublin: 7 Restaurants To Dine In With Your Family The Ultimate Guide To Travelling When You Have No Money Make Your Honeymoon A Truly Memorable Affair: Here’s How

Why Stay At Teton Village During A Trip To Jackson Hole

BY Abdul Aziz May 12, 2023

If you are planning a trip to Jackson Hole, WY, you should try visiting Teton Village. Teton Village is on the bucket list of almost every new visitor to Jackson Hole. The village has places for beautiful scenic views and lots of other entertainment activities. The village isn’t even far from Jackson Hole. Teton Village is famous for being an expensive ski resort, but there are also some free activities to do if you visit during summer. In this article, you’ll learn who you should visit at Teton Village during your trip to Jackson Hill. Not Much Crowded One of the biggest pros of Teton Village is that it isn’t crowded like Jackson Hole. Being a popular tourist spot, Jackson Hole is crowded almost throughout the year. A stay in Teton Village is much cozier and more relaxing. The population of Teton Village is also less than 1000. Because the village is less crowded, you can get more places to roam around the village, discover new places, and create a great memory. Close To Everything Teton Village is located in a place where it is close to almost everything. The village is only 30 minutes drive away from Jackson Hole. Besides being close to Jackson Hole, the Village is close to Grand Teton National Park, The National Elk Refuge, Yellowstone National Park, Snake River, etc. That being said, Teton Village’s location makes it unique and reachable to other popular destinations. Activities For Everyone Teton Village offers activities for persons of every age. There are many family-friendly places and also some places, especially for the children, where they can have fun. Teton Village has a place for shopping, dining, and spending quality time with your family. You can do paragliding, hiking, mountain biking, etc. You can also book tickets to the Jackson Hole Tram, also known as “Big Red,” and view the scenic beauty from the top of Rendezvous Peak. If you visit Teton Village, you must visit Mangy Moose Cafe; it’s the locals’ favorite place for entertainment. Mangy Moose Cafe hosts regular live music, and if you love music, you should visit Mangy Moose Cafe; it will be worth it, and you’ll get addicted to that place. Some Of The Best Scenic Views Though Teton Village is not as popular as Jackson Hole, Teton Village has many spots for getting a beautiful scenic view. The most famous place in Teton Village for the scenic view is Teton Village Wildflower Trail. It is not an easy hike, but you can also get a scenic view through a ride on Gondola. Some other places for beautiful scenic views are Teton Crest Trail, Cirque Trail, Granite Canyon Trail, Casper Ridge Loop, Saratoga Loop Connector, etc. If you are staying in the Village, you should visit these places for magnificent views. Good Places To Stay If you are wondering where to stay in Teton Village, WY, you don’t have to worry much about it because there are many good hotels to stay. Almost every hotel provides good facilities and will make your stay in Teton Village worth your time. Book the hotel rooms beforehand if you are going to stay in Teton Village because most of the time, these hotels are always booked by people in advance. Read Also: Travelocity Review- Login, Services, And Travel Experiences Luxury Car Rental For Couples: Unforgettable Day Trips In Kentucky Exploring Cheap Car Rentals Las Vegas Airport: Book Cars To Travel In Vegas!

Explore Human History And Wildlife With Backcountry Camping In Gates Of The Arctic National Park