Last updated: January 14, 2021
Place
Grand Canyon of the Noatak
NPS/Emily Mesner
Quick Facts
Location:
Noatak National Preserve
Significance:
Natural History
Amenities
2 listed
Scenic View/Photo Spot, Water - Non-Potable
The Grand Canyon of the Noatak towers over the river that carved it.
Visitors to Noatak National Preserve often choose to float the rivers during the summer months to see more of the park in a shorter amount of time. One of the popular float destinations is the Noatak River. Many of these floaters are surprised when they discover themselves in the middle of a deep canyon.
The Grand Canyon of the Noatak is beautiful proof of a dynamic landscape. Hills and mountains form, pushing the land toward the sky, and rivers wear them them back down again over the course of thousands of years. Unlike many rivers of the lower 48, the Noatak River runs free. Its course can change as needed, carving new paths; and its water levels rise and fall with the seasons. However, this canyon stands as witness that at least a portion of the river has been in the same place for a long time.
Fishing is a popular activity along the Noatak River. Backpackers and floaters supplement their packed foods with fish as they continue their journey.
Humans are not the only animal drawn to these waters. Wildlife in Noatak National Preserves will venture to its edges to drink or forage for fish. Bears, caribou, moose, fox, and more use the area. As you pass through the canyon, what will you see on the bluffs surrounding you?
Visitors to Noatak National Preserve often choose to float the rivers during the summer months to see more of the park in a shorter amount of time. One of the popular float destinations is the Noatak River. Many of these floaters are surprised when they discover themselves in the middle of a deep canyon.
The Grand Canyon of the Noatak is beautiful proof of a dynamic landscape. Hills and mountains form, pushing the land toward the sky, and rivers wear them them back down again over the course of thousands of years. Unlike many rivers of the lower 48, the Noatak River runs free. Its course can change as needed, carving new paths; and its water levels rise and fall with the seasons. However, this canyon stands as witness that at least a portion of the river has been in the same place for a long time.
Fishing is a popular activity along the Noatak River. Backpackers and floaters supplement their packed foods with fish as they continue their journey.
Humans are not the only animal drawn to these waters. Wildlife in Noatak National Preserves will venture to its edges to drink or forage for fish. Bears, caribou, moose, fox, and more use the area. As you pass through the canyon, what will you see on the bluffs surrounding you?