Wiseman

Tucked deep into the Brooks Range along the Dalton Highway, Wiseman is a tiny village—remote, quiet, and surrounded by wilderness in every direction. It’s the kind of place where the aurora fills the sky in winter and the summer sun never really sets. If you're drawn to solitude, raw beauty, simple living, and a deep connection with nature, Wiseman delivers.

The town was established in 1907 and saw its heyday between 1911 and 1915 when it became a service hub for gold prospectors working mining claims on nearby creeks. The town grew quickly. Cabins, a school, and even a post office were brought upriver by sled from Coldfoot to support the population swell. Like many mining towns, Wiseman’s boom was brief. As the claims stopped producing, most residents moved on. Today, approximately 11 people live here year-round, carrying on a tradition of self-reliance and deep connection to the land.

Things to Do

• See the Northern Lights Wiseman has some of the best aurora viewing in Alaska. Located far from any city lights and right under the auroral oval, it offers ideal conditions for seeing the northern lights from late August through early April. Northern Alaska Tour Company offers excursions to Wiseman as part of their tours from Fairbanks. Arctic Hive offers 4- night immersive retreats for small groups and solo travelers wanting to see the Aurora and explore Wiseman.
• Explore the Brooks Range & Gates of the Arctic National Park The village sits inside the Brooks Range, offering access to stunning hikes, river valleys, and endless wilderness. Most adventures here are unguided and off-trail, so it’s best for experienced hikers or those traveling with a guide. Wiseman is also a launch point for trips into Gates of the Arctic National Park, one of the least-visited national parks in the U.S. There are no roads into the park, but flightseeing tours and drop-off trips can be arranged from here or nearby Coldfoot.
• Learn About Arctic Living Local residents sometimes offer informal tours or host guests in small lodges. These visits provide insight into off-grid life, traditional practices, and what it takes to live year-round in the Arctic. Tours are available through Northern Alaska Tour Company.

Getting There

Wiseman is about 270 miles north of Fairbanks, just off the Dalton Highway (about 16 miles north of Coldfoot). The drive takes about 7 hours and includes long stretches without services or cell service, so come prepared. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, and it’s wise to carry extra fuel, food, and emergency gear like a spare tire (or two!).

Where to Stay

Arctic Hive is a cozy, off-grid wilderness lodge located a 1 mile hike from the village of Wiseman. Guests must sign up for an immersive 4- to 5-night retreat which includes activities like Aurora viewing, village tours, learn to mush your own dog team, yoga, guided hikes and snowshoeing, and backcountry skiing. Best of all, they provide transportation for their guests from Fairbanks!