About Kobuk Valley
Caribou, sand dunes, the Kobuk River, Onion Portage - just some of the facets of Kobuk Valley National Park. Thousands of caribou migrate through, their tracks crisscrossing sculpted dunes. The Kobuk River is an ancient and current corridor for people and wildlife. For 9000 years, people came to Onion Portage to harvest caribou as they swam the river.
Even today, that rich tradition continues.
Things to do: Boating · Camping · Backcountry Camping · Fishing · Freshwater Fishing · Flying · Fixed Wing Flying · Hands-On · Arts and Crafts · Hiking · Backcountry Hiking · Paddling · Canoeing · Canoe or Kayak Camping
Trails
Kobuk Valley has roughly 0 named trails. Log the one you hiked in the app — or just the park if you're not sure.
Camping
There are no NPS campgrounds inside the park. Lodging and private campgrounds are typically available nearby.
Best time to visit
Peak season: June – August. Access is seasonal — confirm opening and closing dates on NPS.gov before you go.
Snow, rain, and freezing temperatures can occur any time of the year. Always travel with good quality rain gear and warm layers. Be especially careful to stay dry. Hypothermia can set in on a windy, wet day, even when it doesn't feel that cold.
Getting there
Nearest city: Kotzebue, AK. Park center: 67.550°, -159.130°.
Kobuk Valley National Park is very remote. There are no roads to provide access, so planes take care of most transportation needs. Commercial airlines provide service from Anchorage to Kotzebue, or from Fairbanks to Bettles. Once in Kotzebue or Bettles, you must fly to the park with authorized air taxis.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Kobuk Valley National Park?
Entry is Free. An America the Beautiful annual pass covers entrance fees at every national park.
When is the best time to visit Kobuk Valley?
Peak season is June – August. Access is seasonal; check NPS.gov for opening dates. Snow, rain, and freezing temperatures can occur any time of the year. Always travel with good quality rain gear and warm layers. Be especially careful to stay dry. Hypothermia can set in on a windy, wet day, even when it doesn't feel that cold.
Can you camp in Kobuk Valley National Park?
There are no NPS campgrounds inside the park; lodging and private campgrounds are available nearby.
What is the closest city to Kobuk Valley National Park?
Kotzebue, AK is the nearest major city. Kobuk Valley National Park is very remote. There are no roads to provide access, so planes take care of most transportation needs. Commercial airlines provide service from Anchorage to Kotzebue, or from Fairbanks to Bettles. Once in Kotzebue or Bettles, you must fly to the park with authorized air taxis.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.