Kids & Youth

Ranger Tyler and some of Kobuk Valley's Junior Rangers get to experience how biologists learn about animals during a program.

NPS Photo/Cait Johnson

 

Western Arctic National Parklands Junior Ranger book

Become a Junior Ranger

You don't have to visit the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center to be a Junior Ranger. Anyone can become a Kobuk Valley National Park Junior Ranger by printing a copy of the Western Arctic National Parklands Junior Ranger book, completing the activities and mailing the book back to the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center. Remember to print on both sides of the page or reuse old paper whenever possible.

The fun games and activities in the Junior Ranger book will help kids (and adults) learn about the natural wonders and culture of Northwest Alaska, and you can earn a Junior Ranger badge and a saber toothed tiger Junior Ranger patch.

During the summer, the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center offers a variety of kids program for local children and young visitors alike. Call the front desk or stop by the Visitor Center to see what is happening while you visit! You can take a sneak peek at some of our Junior Ranger programs in these videos highlighting some of our favorite activities.

Come to a Program

During the summer, the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center offers a variety of exciting programs for kids and young visitors from early June through mid-August, with new topics each week! Parents are always welcome to join the fun, and we ask that little ones come with an adult or older sibling. Give us a call at [phone] to check out the current schedule.

We hope to see you here!

Call us at 907-442-3890 or visit our Facebook page for more information on what the week's programs are.

 

Participants in the 2025 Arctic Travelers program discuss the day's journey in Noatak National Preserve.

Alaska Geographic/Kaia Finn

Teen camps and experiences

Western Arctic National Parklands offers engaging programs for teenagers that combine outdoor adventure with cultural learning. Teens can participate in the Arctic Travelers backpacking program, hosted by Alaska Geographic Teen Expeditions, which provides hands-on wilderness experience in places like Noatak National Preserve, building skills in hiking, camping, and teamwork. In addition, Western Arctic supports local cultural camps such as Camp Sisaulik, where youth connect with Inupiat traditions, subsistence practices, and community teachings. These programs foster both personal growth and a deeper understanding of the land, culture, and stewardship responsibilities in Northwest Alaska.