The most popular activities at Gates of the Arctic are hiking, backpacking, climbing, kayaking, rafting, fishing, wildlife observation, and exploring the wilderness on horseback and snowmachine. As with any trip, proper planning is essential for a Brooks Range visit. With the remoteness and with no facilities within the park the visitor must be well prepared and self sufficient. Equipment, supplies, and even emergency services may not be available. Wilderness skills are essential. In many areas of the park it may be weeks before you encounter another person. The best way to enjoy the park is to arrange your trips with an experienced guide. See the Travel and Tour Operators list for information on guides and outfitters that can arrange trips in the park.

© MacGill Adams, Wilderness Alaska

The park requires a backcountry orientation program for all recreational travelers. The backcountry orientation will be offered at the Bettles Ranger Station, Coldfoot Visitor Center, and Anaktuvuk Pass Ranger Station. Backcountry users not passing through one of these locations should call the Bettles Ranger Station. Planning your route is an important part of your adventure. The Brooks Range is a vast area and will require you to spend some time with topographic maps. Topographic maps are available.

Be prepared for emergencies and for radical changes in the weather. It can snow at any time of the year in the Brooks Range. The month of August is usually the rainy season. Always carry enough food for extra days because inclement weather can delay air service. You should allow for extra time and alternate itineraries; you could conceivably wait for days for decent flying weather.

Your guide/air taxi operator will provide you with options, and help you formulate realistic plans and expectations. The mosquitoes are out in large numbers from mid-June to mid-August. Please take time to familiarize yourself with information about the following topics as you plan your trip. Visitors are strongly encouraged to practice minimum impact/leave no trace camping guidelines at all times. Fires should be used only when regulations permit and if possible, kept on river bars below the high water line. Visitors are reminded there are no facilities within the preserve and they should be self-sufficient at all times.