Backpack Gates of the Arctic
June 19-27, 2021 – 0 of 6 spaces available – A stunning traverse across Alaska’s Brooks Range.
This trip takes place in Alaska’s Brooks Range in Gates of the Arctic National Park on the traditional and current lands of the Iñupiaq people.
This trip traverses the eastern portion of Gates of the Arctic National Park. Our small group will cross the continental divide of Alaska’s Brooks Range as we backpack from the Nunamiut village of Anaktuvuk Pass to the the Dalton Highway. Along the way we’ll cross braided rivers and alpine streams. We’ll keep our eyes open for the various types of wildlife that call this place home, including grizzly bears, wolverines, caribou, moose, dozens of varieties of birds, wolves and a multitude of smaller, though no less charismatic, species. We will travel over river beds, tundra, on caribou trails and steep loose rocks. As we approach the Dalton Highway, we’ll navigate through some relatively dense brush. Daily mileage will range from 8-12 miles with elevation gain/loss between 500′-4000′ per day. Because this trip utilizes a regularly scheduled “mail plane”, it is a relatively low-carbon adventure when compared to trips that utilize bush flights. We offset the carbon from our flight to Anaktuvuk Pass from Fairbanks.
***COVID-19 Disclaimer: Please note that depending on the pandemic situation, travel through the village of Anaktuvuk Pass may not be advisable, appropriate or possible. In that case, this trip will reroute to a loop through the eastern portion of Gates of the Arctic National Park. This alternate itinerary will start and end at the Dalton Highway.**
Non-Profit Partner: The Northern Alaska Environmental Center
Prior to the trip, participants will have a chance to learn about the Northern Alaska Environmental Center’s Clean Water and Mining Program which works to oppose the proposed road to the Ambler Mining district which would cross Gates of the Arctic National Park. A significant monetary donation will be make to the Northern Alaska Environmental Center in honor of this trip. Learn more about our non-profit partner program on our Why Us page.
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Destination
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Departure
Fairbanks -
Departure Time
June 19, 2021 -
Return Time
June 27, 2021 -
Dress Code
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Included
Food While In The WildernessLodging on Night One of Your Trip (Location Varies by Trip)Professional Guide ServiceRoundtrip Transportation from Your Trip's Departure City (Typically Anchorage or Fairbanks)Safety & Repair GearStoves, Cooking & Eating UtensilsWater Filter -
Not Included
Additional Food or Meals (beyond those described in the itinerary)Additonal Hotel Nights (beyond any described in the itinerary)Alcoholic BeveragesGuide GratuitiesPersonal Clothing & Equipment
Day 1 - Arrive in Fairbanks
Meals included: none; Accommodations: Hotel in Fairbanks
Day 2 - Depart for the Backcountry
Meals included: all; Accommodations: tents
Days 3-7 - Backcountry Travel
Meals included: all; Accommodations: tents
Day 8 - Wiseman, AK
Meals included: all; Accommodations: Arctic Getaway B&B
Day 9 - Return to Fairbanks
Meals included: breakfast; Accommodations: none
About Gates of the Arctic National Park
The area of public land currently known as Gates of the Arctic National Park occupies the historical and current lands of the Iñupiaq, Koyukon and Gwich'in people of Alaska. Gates of the Arctic National Park is the 2nd largest National Park and was created by the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) of 1980. Gates of the Arctic is currently threatened by the planned development of an industrial road to access the Ambler Mining District.Ready to Join this Trip?
- Fill out the Trip Reservation Form.
- We will get in touch with you to discuss the trip.
- Confirm your participation with a trip deposit.
- Prepare by downloading the Personal Equipment Checklist, commit to a physical training plan if necessary and stock up on some books and podcasts from our recommended list to get stoked.
- Book your flights and pre- and post-trip accommodations.
- Stay in touch with any questions that come to mind!