National Park Guide

Gates of the Arctic National Park

Alaska, US

A vast, roadless wilderness north of the Arctic Circle where rivers carve through the rugged Brooks Range.

8,472,506
Acres
0
Trails
1980
Established
10,000
Annual Visitors

Quick Info

Season
June - September
Entrance Fee
Free
Nearest Airport
Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), Fly-in only
Best Months
June, July, August

Highlights

  • Arrigetch Peaks granite spires
  • Caribou migration across the Brooks Range
  • Midnight sun in summer
  • Wild river float trips on the Alatna and John Rivers
  • Northern Lights viewing in late season

Park Map

Explore trailheads, hotels, and points of interest

Top Trails

Featured trailheads in Gates of the Arctic National Park

Arrigetch Peaks Route

Strenuous
12.0 miles round trip
2,000 ft gain

Frigid Crags Route

Strenuous
8.0 miles round trip
1,500 ft gain

Anaktuvuk Pass Village Loop

Easy
2.0 miles loop
100 ft gain

North Fork Koyukuk Route

Strenuous
15.0 miles round trip
800 ft gain

Hunt Fork Lake Route

Moderate
6.0 miles round trip
600 ft gain

About Gates of the Arctic National Park

Gates of the Arctic National Park encompasses over 8 million acres of untouched Arctic wilderness in northern Alaska. With no roads, trails, or visitor facilities, it is one of the most remote and least visited national parks in the system, offering true solitude among boreal forests, wild rivers, and caribou migration routes.

In-Depth Guide

Gates of the Arctic National Park Guide: Best Hikes, When to Visit & Where to Stay

Plan your trip to Gates of the Arctic National Park. Top routes, best months to visit, where to stay, and essential tips for Alaska's most remote wilderness.

12 min read

Weather Overview

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Where to Stay

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Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center

$$

Full-service hotel in the heart of Fairbanks with two on-site restaurants, a bar, and spacious rooms serving as the primary staging point for flights into Gates of the Arctic.

Gateway city (Fairbanks)$150-250/night
Check on Hotels.com

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks

$$

Modern all-suite hotel near the Chena River offering free breakfast, indoor pool, hot tub, and kitchenette in every room. A comfortable base before flying into the Arctic.

Gateway city (Fairbanks)$180-280/night
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Sophie Station Suites

$$

All-suite hotel in Fairbanks featuring fully equipped kitchens, on-site dining at Zachs Restaurant, and complimentary airport shuttle. Ideal for extended stays while planning wilderness trips.

Gateway city (Fairbanks)$160-260/night
Check on Hotels.com

More Alaska/Hawaii Parks

Other national parks in the Alaska/Hawaii region

Park Details

Highest Point
8,510 ft (Mount Igikpak)
Camping
Available
Wilderness Areas
Yes
Pet Friendly
Limited (developed areas only)
Region
Alaska/Hawaii
Established
1980