Far North/Arctic

You won't end up in the Arctic by accident. Visit to experience Alaska Native culture in a rural town, watch a massive caribou migration, go on a polar bear viewing trip, or view the northern lights in winter.

Getting Around

There is one road to the Arctic, the Dalton Highway. Rent a car and drive the gravel haul road or join a group tour. You can also fly to Nome or Barrow from Anchorage or Fairbanks, or charter an air taxi to smaller towns.

Little Known Fact

Although there is only one road to the Arctic region, there are roads IN the arctic. In fact, Nome has three roads leaving town in different directions. Fly in, rent a car, and spend a day exploring each one.

It’s not the easiest place to get to, but those who make it to the Arctic Circle will be rewarded with rolling tundra, mountains, and coastal plains leading into arctic waters. Experience native culture in the towns of Nome and Barrow, and meet Alaskans who still practice ancient whaling customs. It’s an otherworldly place: the sun truly doesn't set in the summer and doesn't rise for several months in the winter. It’s even rare to see wildlife, though this is the place to see polar bears and caribou.

Many towns in the region are only accessible by air, with most flights departing from Fairbanks, though you can find flights from Anchorage as well. You can also drive to the Arctic via the Dalton Highway, a 414-mile stretch of gravel and dirt that runs from the town of Livengood up to Prudhoe Bay and through some of Alaska’s most remote wilderness.

Most Visited

Off the Beaten Path

Sample Itineraries