Kobuk Valley National Park is surreal! Have you ever thought to meet sand dunes in the Arctic Circle? The unique geology of the park makes it possible. That’s not all! The Great Kobuk sand dunes stand here, along with the remains of the North American continental glaciers.
Three of the sand dunes in this national park are active or alive. The Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, Hunt River Dunes, and Little Kobuk Sand Dunes here cover a mesmerizing 20,000 acres of area in the park.
Today, hiking through these dunes is one of the most popular activities in the Kobuk Valley National Park.
While it is visually unusual or unexpected to see sand dunes in an Arctic National Park, you also need to understand that the Arctic region gets very little rainfall every year. So, this is also a desert region.
“Sand dunes in the Arctic landscape are not what you would expect. Since most people associate sand dunes with a hot desert environment, it is a visually unusual thing to see. In fact, what most people don’t realize is that the Arctic is also a desert with very low levels of rainfall.”
– Christian, a Kobuk Valley National Park Worker
Having said that, how the sand dunes came to be here, and the experience of exploring them will be a great thing to discuss in this article.
This Is How The Kobuk Valley National Park Became The Land Of Sand Dunes
Much of Alaska, including the Kobuk Valley National Park, falls in the Tundra region. Tundra, the coldest of the biomes, gets only around 150 to 250 mm of rainfall and snowfall yearly1. So, the national park has less rainfall than some of the most well-known deserts in the world.
Further, the sand dunes in the Kobuk Valley are as old as the Ice Age. Now, as the mighty glaciers moved forward and made a retreat, the rocks beneath got ground. Now, the blowing wind transported the sand into the empty and ice-free Kobuk Valley. The sand dunes in the park are up to 150 feet high, and they are the biggest, high-altitude, and most importantly, “active sand fields” in the earth.
Are you in the Sahara? No, you are around 35 miles above the Arctic Circle and still find the largest active sand dune field in the world. Today, it is a popular backpacking, hiking, and camping destination in the National Park. You must attend the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center to learn more about the outdoor pursuits in the land of sand dunes.
Let’s quickly look at why the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes is a preferred destination for camping, hiking, and backpacking.
The sand is steady enough for the landing of an aircraft with wheels.
You can put up your tent on any level surface.
Also, you can hike in any direction.
Further, you can board a float plane and reach the Kobuk River. From there, you can take a backpacking tour for around two miles and reach the dunes.
You must visit the Kotzebue Visitor Center if you have plans to take this backpacking journey to and from the Kobuk River.
There is no marked route for hiking.
In summer, the temperature in the sand dunes can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, fall is the season to see caribou migration here.
However, there’s more to it! Let’s learn about the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes as relics of the Ice Age and how life thrived here.
To know about the formation of the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, we must go back to the Ice Age. Around 28000 years ago, glaciers in the mountains formed. I have already discussed how the glaciers ground the rocks and wind deposited them in the Kobuk Valley.
Further, approximately 14000 years ago, the glaciers made a massive retreat. As a result, there were 200,000 acres of sandy land formation on the river banks. Complex holocene activities and geomorphic preservations keep the sand dune field at the Kobuk Valley National Park active or alive. Along with the Kobuk Valley, small lakes in the park have also accumulated sand over thousands of years.
However, most of the landscape today is occupied by the vegetation of the national park, and the sand dune area consists of only 20,000 acres. The vegetation found here consists of the following varieties.
Wild rye
Grasses
Sedges
Kobuk locoweed
Wildflowers blooming occasionally
These species grow on the shifting sand, and they function as stabilizing agents. You can see shrubs, lichens, mosses, and algae following this vegetation. Finally, there are spruce, birch, and aspen trees covering the landscape.
The slopes of the Kobuk Valley sand dunes are the only place where Kobuk locoweeds grow. These plants belong to the pea family, and they are known for their purple flowers. If you want to see these flowers, you must visit the park in late June and July.
The inland dune field of Kobuk Valley National Park is surrounded by boreal forest.
It’s amazing to see the Western Arctic Caribou walking through the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes. Fall and spring are the migration seasons for these animals. The north of Brook Range is the caribou herd’s calving ground, and they migrate to and from this place.
As the caribou herds pass through the sand dunes, their footprints remain in the ground for the longest time. According to National Park Service data, around 250,000 caribou pass through this national park annually.
No wonder that the Kobuk Valley National Park is one of the “last great migrations” remaining in the world. The table below gives you a brief idea about the animals and birds in the sand dunes.
Birds
Sharp-shinned Hawk Golden Eagle Bald Eagle American Wigeon Northern Pintail Rough-legged Hawk Marsh Hawk
Mammals
Caribou Wolverine Muskox Snowshoe Hare Moose Gray Wolf Grizzly Bear Beaver Arctic Fox American Pine Marten
Human history in the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes is at least 8000 years old. They lived by the Kobuk River and were mainly focused on fishing, hunting, and trapping for survival. It is fascinating to visit the thousand-year-old hunting camps on the edges of the sand dunes.
The golden and shifting Great Kobuk Sand Dunes are located a few miles away from the Kobuk River. Further, the sand dunes soar up to 100 miles in the air.
Kobuk Valley National Park Is Also The Land Of Iñupiaq Subsistence
Human life, which started in the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes 8000 years ago, is still thriving with the mantra of subsistence. The Iñupiaq people here use the available natural resources to fulfil their physical needs and safeguard their spiritual and cultural requirements.
For example, they depend on caribou and salmon to feed themselves and their dogs. At the same time, caribou skin hide is extensively used to make parka jackets to combat Arctic winter. They also make mukluks or boots using reindeer skin to walk through the snow.
Further, the local people made baskets using birch and willow. Moreover, in darkness, caribou tallow or seal oil were the only ingredients to light up their stone lamps.
Irrespective of the trade with the coastal communities, the “customary, traditional and non-commercial” use of natural resources is still important in the park.
Aboriginal people in the Kobuk Valley National Park are committed to passing on their values from generation to generation. The Iñupiat Ilitqusiat value asks them to transfer the knowledge and skill of hunting and everything about life.
In addition, this transfer of knowledge helps to make the most of various seasons and subsistence opportunities. For example, the caribou season comes to this park after the salmon season.
Earlier, Noatak Valley was the destination for these people during the caribou season, and even today, some families move to Noatak Valley. Again, summer camping around the Kobuk River is common for fishing, especially catching salmon and whitefish.
Summer is also the season for harvesting berries and wild greens for the local people.
If you want to learn about the local people and their values, you must be respectful and understand their seasonal activities as a part of their subsistence practices.
Overall, the Kobuk Valley National Park is not just a place to see sand dunes and wildlife. It is a tapestry of human lives depending on nature.
Things To Know Before You Visit The Kobuk Valley National Park
For me, the sand dunes and Iñupiaq subsistence practices are the most fascinating things in the Kobuk Valley National Park. However, keep the following information handy if you are to pay a visit anytime soon.
Mode of Transport: Authorized air taxis from Kotzebue or Bettles
Visitor Center: Northwest Arctic Heritage Center
Entrance Fee: Free
Permits Required: Commercial Use Authorization or CUA for commercial activities, Research Permits, Filming and Photography Permits
Activities to Do: Boating, fishing, camping and backpacking, hiking, flight-seeing and exploring nearby attractions
Best Time to Visit: June to July
Area: 1,750,000 Acres
Established: 2nd December, 1980
Number of Visitors: 17,616 (2023) (National Park Service Data)
Snowfall, downpours, and extreme weather conditions can occur in any season of the year. So, follow the instructions shared at the visitor center and keep your gear ready for survival!
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!
Spain, with its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, tantalizing food, and picturesque landscapes, is a country that captures the heart of every traveler. If it's your first time visiting, the prospect can be both exciting and a little daunting. How do you navigate this unfamiliar yet enchanting territory?
Don't worry. These five insider tips are just what you need to make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories. Here's what you should keep in mind.
1 - Understand Spanish Culture
Familiarize yourself with Spanish customs and norms before your trip. Spanish people are known for their laid-back lifestyle and love for socializing. In Spain, meal times are later than what you might be used to; lunch typically starts at 2 p.m., and dinner at 9 p.m. or later.
Siestas are a real thing, with many shops closing in the afternoon for a few hours. The nightlife is vibrant and starts late. And one more thing: remember the Spanish love for celebrations and festivals — you might just find one happening during your visit!
2 - Explore Iconic Landmarks
Spain is rich in history and boasts of numerous World Heritage sites. From the royal palaces in Madrid, the iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Alhambra in Granada, to the historic old town of Toledo, there's a lot to see.
You should — of course — prioritize your itinerary according to your interests and time constraints, but don't miss out on these marvels.
3 - Discover Hidden Gems
While tourist hotspots are great, the real charm of Spain lies in its hidden corners. Venture off the beaten path and explore local markets, try a cooking class, take a flamenco lesson, or visit a local vineyard. These unique experiences will give you a taste of authentic Spanish life.
If you're documenting the trip, going off the beaten path also gives you a chance to capture moments and sights that most travelers never get to experience. There's plenty of good public transportation in Spain, but if you'd like to explore, it can be smart to rent a car or charter a Yacht. The latter is easier than you might think, as the SeekSail website shows.
4 - Optimize Your Itinerary
Don't make the mistake of cramming too much into your itinerary. Spain is a country to be savored. Traveling between cities can be time-consuming, so it's better to explore a few places thoroughly rather than trying to see them all.
Remember to plan your day around the Spanish rhythm. You should take advantage of the late morning to explore, relax during the siesta hours, and soak in the nightlife.
5 - Pack Appropriately
Spanish weather can be quite variable. Summers can be scorching hot, while winters are cold, especially in the north. Pack light, breathable clothing for summer and layers for winter. Don't forget comfortable shoes for all the walking you'll be doing!
Remember, traveling is all about immersing yourself in the local culture and stepping out of your comfort zone. Use these tips to truly engage with Spain's captivating charm. And who knows, you might even come back home with a touch of the Spanish zest for life!
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Campbell Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to sea lions and many other species of endangered animals and birds.
However, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has identified that growing temperatures in this region and increased rainfall are posing threats to the rich ecosystem here.
“Extensive rainfall events and slips will potentially have the biggest impact on nesting birds. We’d also like to find out more about how sea level rise and storm surges will affect sea lions.”
- Drew Bingham, Principal Science Advisor, the Department of Conservation.
It’s indeed a grave concern, as it is home to many marine and terrestrial animals and is even crucial for global environmental conservation.
Also, it has fascinating stories of history and human intervention to share. So, the changing weather conditions of the island put a lot at stake.
Nevertheless, Campbell Island is a popular destination for tourists seeking adventures in the subantarctic zones. Hundreds of people visit this destination every year.
And in this Tour and Travel Blog, we will discuss what’s so special in Campbell Island, a fascinating story of shark attack and survival, and everything else you need to know.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Campbell Island?
One of the best Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand, Campbell Island, is ideal for a visit from November to March. These months make the island ideal for traveling because of:
Long daylight hours
Mild weather and calmer sea
Ideal for cruising along the coastline
Great for spotting wildlife such as seals, penguins, and albatrosses
Moreover, the temperature in these months ranges between 5 and 12 degrees Celsius.
Do you want to know more about the weather of Campbell Island throughout the year? Have a look at the table below.
MonthsHighest TemperatureLowest TemperatureDays of RainfallJanuary13616February12714March11617April10518May9420June7319July7218August6419September7318October8420November9517December11616
What Is Campbell Island Famous For? Know Why It Is Worth The Adventurous Journey
Captain Frederick Hasselburgh discovered Campbell Island in 1810. With time, it became an important location for scientific observation, whaling, and sealing.
It was also used as a coastwatching station after World War II. With time, Campbell Island became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and today, it has emerged as a popular subantarctic region for the following reasons.
1. Dramatic Geographical Features
Area: 113 Square Kilometers
Population: Uninhabited
Shape: Oval
Highest Point: Mount Honey (568 Meters)
The uninhabited Campbell Island features deep coastal bays, rocky outcrops, and steep cliffs.
Further, thanks to its volcanic origin and the cooling and solidification of lava over a million years, this island has geographical features such as:
Peat bogs
Freshwater lakes
Volcanic craters
Furthermore, due to its volcanic origin, this island has become home to many unique ecosystems uncommon in the subantarctic region.
2. Campbell Island And Its Rich Natural Heritage
Campbell Island has many endangered species of plants and animals. They have contributed to the biodiversity of the island.
Campbell Island cabbage (Azorella selago) is the most prominent name when we talk about the diversity of flora on the island. It worked as a source of food for explorers and settlers.
Among the endangered fauna here, the Campbell Island teal birds are the most prominent. Other popular species are the yellow-eyed penguin, petrels, and albatross.
Furthermore, elephant seals, dolphins, and various species of fish here speak volumes about the rich marine life.
3. Conservation And Restoration Efforts In Campbell Island
The New Zealand government established the Campbell Island Nature Reserve in 2001. It banned human habitation and various development works here.
Also, the Department of Conservation has played a critical role in protecting the delicate ecosystem of the island.
In this context, the rat eradication program from 2001-2003 has been a milestone achievement.
With all these conservation efforts, the island now has a growing bird population. Also, many other islands have taken Campbell Island as the benchmark for ecological restoration and development.
What Are The Things To Do In Campbell Island?
A close interaction with nature and adventurous activities have been the best things to do on Campbell Island.
You can also enjoy a cruise tour along the coastline.
Things to Do in Campbell IslandWhat’s So Special about Them?Birdwatching• Southern royal albatrosses (Campbell Island is home to the largest breeding population.)• Black-browed albatrosses• Grey-headed albatrosses• Endangered bird species such as Campbell snipe and Campbell teal• Terns• Pipits• Giant petrelsA visit to the Campbell Island National ParkYou will love the tree ferns and orchids here. Zodiac cruisingCruise along the coastline to spot elephant seals and various bird species. Hiking to Mount HoneyOnce you reach the mountain top, you will love the panoramic view of the island. Hiking to Northwest BayIt is a 16-km hike to explore the natural landscape of the island. Col Lyall BoardwalkYou will spot Southern Royal Albatrosses as you walk the boardwalk.
Campbell Island Shark Attack: What Happened In 1992?
Mike Fraser, a meteorologist from New Zealand, encountered a great white shark attack while snorkeling near Campbell Island.
The shark cut off his right forearm, and his left arm was also severely injured.
After a dramatic rescue mission and a 2,000-kilometer helicopter flight, Mike Fraser was saved.
He then underwent prolonged medical treatment and got prosthetic arms. It’s great that he survived.
Campbell Island: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Campbell Island.
1. Can You Go To Campbell Island? Yes, you can go to Campbell Island. However, due to the remote location of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you have to visit the island on a guided expedition cruise. You can also visit the island on a helicopter. 2. How Many People Live On Campbell Island? There is no permanent human population on Campbell Island. 3. Is Campbell Island Predator Free? Yes, Campbell Island is predator-free. It had the largest rat eradication movement from 2001 to 2003. In May 2003, the Department of Conservation declared Campbell Island predator-free. 4. Does It Snow On Campbell Island? Yes, the high peaks of Campbell Island, with Mount Honey being the highest, experience snowfall during spring and winter.
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Salt Lake City has an incredible amount of amazing things to do. The capital of the Beehive State has plenty to see and do, From Temple Square to its vibrant LGBTQ community, from its rows of top-notch restaurants to its snow that is actually truly flag-bearing. If you are looking for the best hotels in Salt Lake City, this article is it.
SLC offers a fantastic array of lodging choices for all types of visitors. It includes boutique hotels, historic inns, five-star resorts, and unusual B&Bs. However, wherever you choose to book, remember that Salt Lake 101 is charming, unique, and reasonably priced. These are our top 11 hotels in Salt Lake City with friendly service, unique décor, and incredibly low rates.
Best Hotels In Salt Lake City
If you want to make your overall experience wholesome, then lodging at a good hotel is a priority. Here are some of the most amazing hotels that you can check out. It will help you make the most of your trip to Salt Lake City.
The Cliff Lodge At Snowbird
Who said that lodging for skiers had only to have rustic, mountain-style buildings? With its spectacular Brutalist concrete exterior and modern, bright rooms, the Cliff Lodge defies convention. This contemporary lodge offers ski-in/ski-out access to some of Utah's most challenging and excellent terrain. It is tucked away in Little Cottonwood Canyon, less than 45 minutes from Salt Lake. Winter isn't the only season to visit Snowbird. Miles of hiking and biking trails appear when the snow melts. Additionally, Snowbird hosts Oktoberfest, complete with live music and steins brimming with beer, from mid-August through most of October.
Inn On The Hill Bed And Breakfast
This Renaissance Revival-style home stands atop Capitol Hill and offers expansive views of the city below. The 1906-built Inn served as both a residence and a law office before converting to a B&B in the late 1990s. Every room has its own décor and is named after a Utah landmark, such as Arches or Sundance. The Carriage House is also available for rent from The Inn on the Hill. It has a cozy two-story cottage with a kitchenette and gas fireplace. It's a perfect place for family vacations or quiet getaways.
The Peery Hotel
The Peery is a museum and lodging combined, thanks to the building's rich history and the various works of art all throughout the grounds. Operating since 1910, it is a member of the Ascent Collection of independent boutique hotels. The interior features a retro Art Deco feel from the 1920s. The aesthetic is evident in both Carnegie's Public House and the sleek rooms. You can get to Pioneer Park and the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art quickly by foot from the Peery, which is in the downtown area.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City
The Monaco, another of the best hotels in Salt Lake City, is actually regarded as one of the greatest in Salt Lake and Utah. Its historic bank building and its contemporary, lively rooms add character. Hotel Monaco is ideally in the heart of the city, close to theaters, eateries, and other attractions. In and of itself, the hotel restaurant Bambara is a dining destination. A meal here is a must, with a chef who has been at it for more than 20 years and a dedication to fresh, local cuisine that is evident in the All Local Cheese Board.
The Grand America Hotel
The flagship property of the Little America Hotel family, The Grand America, knows how to lull guests into relaxation with its signature afternoon tea and tranquil Grand Spa. Step-out balconies are a feature of Suites and Premier Rooms, perfect for pre-dinner cocktails. The Grand, Salt Lake City's only AAA Five-Diamond hotel, combines elegance and family-friendliness with features like cribs and a babysitter concierge service. There are tons of amazing eating options within. But make sure to save room for one or two macaron options from La Bonne Vie's pastel rainbow.
Ellerbeck Mansion Bed & Breakfast
Ellerbeck is a little piece of Victorian history. It is one of the best hotels in Salt Lake City. This 1892 mansion, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, has marble columns, stained glass windows, and antique wood finishes that evoke a bygone era of opulence. This bed and breakfast in the Avenues neighborhood offers a range of reasonably priced rooms. You also have the option to reserve the entire property if you are traveling in a big group. Oh, and don't forget to enjoy the sumptuous free breakfast served every morning.
Little America Hotel
From a fitness center with the largest indoor/outdoor pool in the city to a plethora of dining options, this enormous hotel has it all. Little America is part of an old lodging custom that stretches back to the late 1800s. According to legend, a shepherd in Wyoming got lost in a snowstorm and dreamed of a cozy home stocked to the brim with food. A few decades later, he opened the first hotel called Little America after the United States base camp in Antarctica. Salt Lake's Little America, situated on Main Street in the city center, is a perfect starting point for exploring the area.
Hansen House Bed & Breakfast
There are many historic hotels in Salt Lake City, but this bed and breakfast takes you back in time. Constructed in 1887, the Victorian mansion features a formal dining area, a traditional library, and a sitting area furnished with a grand piano and chandelier. The Hansen House's outdoor areas, which include a charming garden surrounded by 100-year-old trees, a rock garden, and a cozy sitting area, are just as impressive as its interior. Every themed room has a whirlpool tub and a fireplace.
Castle Creek Inn
Fantasy lovers will simply swoon when they discover that this inn is actually housed inside a castle. Easily one of the best hotels in Salt Lake City, the goal of Castle Creek Inn is to combine the rustic atmosphere of a Scottish citadel with contemporary amenities. It offers quick Wi-Fi, movie streaming online, and a late-night snack bar. It's not just about the old-fashioned charm, though. Even though downtown Salt Lake is just fifteen minutes away, taking a soak in the two-person whirlpool tub surrounded by trees and natural rock will make you feel worlds away from the bustle of the city. Make sure the themed room you choose—from Romeo and Juliet to Canterbury—fits the occasion.
Anniversary Inn Bed & Breakfast
You need look no further if you've ever wanted to spend the night in either an Egyptian tomb or the Oval Office. That's something the Anniversary Inn can arrange. There are about fifty suites spread across its three locations in and around Salt Lake City. Each has a beautifully designed, distinct theme. Everybody can find a suitable motif, From families with children who love pirates to adventurous couples who want to go on safari. Breakfast, sparkling cider, and cheesecake are also complimentary with a stay. If you are staying here for your anniversary, then there are lots of extra amenities available. Like a romance spa package and a candlelit bath scented with rose petals.
Silver Fork Lodge
The Silver Fork is well-known among the locals for its restaurant. It boasts a 70-year-old sourdough starter that gives pancakes in their best-in-state breakfast dish a serious tang. It also has a smoker that produces some of the best barbecues in the city. Aside from food, the Silver Fork is the best place to stay for travelers who are addicted to log cabins. The sauna is a must-have feature of this historic inn, which is located minutes from skiing and less than an hour from the airport. The Wasatch-Cache National Forest surrounds it.
Wrapping Up
Here, we enlisted the best hotels in Salt Lake City. This should guide you to choose hip and trendy hotels as well as small boutique hotels. These hotels feel uber luxurious and yet romantic and unique. So much so that you may not want to leave your room. The hotels we have mentioned will also have coffee shops, restaurants, and even museums.
If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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