Arctic Dunes and Caribou Trails
Established in 1980, Kobuk Valley National Park protects 1.75 million acres of pristine Arctic wilderness. Located entirely above the Arctic Circle, the park features the remarkable Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, one of the largest active dune fields in the Arctic.
The park serves as a crucial migration route for the Western Arctic Caribou Herd and preserves 12,000 years of human history. This remote wilderness offers visitors a rare glimpse into an Arctic ecosystem where ancient dunes meet boreal forest.
Alaska
1980
1.75 million acres
~15,000
June to September
Spring and Fall
25 square miles of Arctic dunes.
Historic waterway.
Ancient archaeological site.
Caribou crossing paths.
Northern mountain range.
Arctic woodland.
Extreme Arctic conditions. Check conditions.
No facilities. Backcountry camping only.
Access by air taxi only. No roads or trails.
Remote wilderness. View safety guidelines.
Extremely limited. Contact park for information.
Fly from Kotzebue, Alaska. Advanced planning essential.
The park is open year-round, but most visitors come June through September. Winter visits require extensive preparation.
No facilities in the park. Information available at Northwest Arctic Heritage Center in Kotzebue.
No entrance fees. Advance arrangements needed for air taxi service. Visitors must be self-sufficient.