Directions

Gates of the Arctic Location Map

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From Fairbanks proceed by air to one of our jump-off communities. Some popular entry points are Bettles, Coldfoot, Anaktuvuk Pass and Kotzebue; or by vehicle along the Dalton Highway Corridor. Commercial air service is available from Fairbanks to Bettles, Anaktuvuk Pass and Kotzebue. You will have to travel by air because there are no roads to these communities.

From Bettles, Coldfoot, and Kotzebue arrange to fly into the Park and Preserve with an air taxi service. Your destination in the Park and Preserve determines which community from which you will leave. Please call an air taxi service for specific price information.

From the Anaktuvuk Pass airfield one can hike into the Park and Preserve. Anaktuvuk Pass and the surrounding land is private property. Hikers should be certain they are in the Park and Preserve before camping.

From the Dalton Highway you can drive to Coldfoot and fly into the Park and Preserve via air charter. Those seeking a rugged wilderness journey on a limited budget can begin hiking directly off the highway.

Travel Tips:

• There are no trails into the Park and Preserve from any location; river crossings are necessary from both Anaktuvuk Pass and the Dalton Highway.
  
• Expect to move at a slower pace in the bush. People and schedules must be flexible to the demands of weather and other exigencies.
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• Before you leave on your trip, contact the Park and Preserve for updates and advisories. Wherever you access the Park and Preserve, please stop in at the Visitor Center or Visitor Contact Station to speak to a ranger, check out the Bear Resistant Food Containers you need, and become a "Guardian of the Gates."