The Far North is an immense region that embodies the vision of Alaska that visitors and Alaskans both share: vast, remote, rich with wildlife and natural resources. The region covers the land that lies primarily west of the Yukon River and north of the Arctic Circle. The main transportation hub to reach the Far North is Fairbanks, with flights beginning or ending there before connecting on to Anchorage and beyond. Daily flights are available to Barrow, Nome, and Deadhorse/Prudhoe Bay.

In addition to flight service, the Dalton Highway connects Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay. The highway is an unsealed gravel road and not recommended for private vehicles. However, the tour route provides excellent views of the vast tundra landscape and the Alaska Pipeline. The Far North is an excellent location to experience Alaska's culture and history. Whether guests wish to experience rural Alaska on a day excursion or spend multiple days, the Far North is never out of reach.

Arctic Circle

For those interested in traveling to the Arctic region we recommend planning more time in Fairbanks, as it is the jumping off point for tours. The Arctic Circle is the latitude where the sun does not set on summer solstice, June 21st, and does not rise on winter solstice, December 21st. When guests cross the famed Arctic Circle they will often receive a certificate signaling this accomplishment.

Day trips are popular and often offered as an optional excursion to an itinerary. Tours vary from two hours to a whole day, and can offer a landing at a local village. In addition, there are tours that include a cultural visit to Anaktuvuk Pass, located in the Brooks Range at the heart of Gates of the Arctic National Park. Tours including a scenic float trip on the Koyukuk River and flightseeing of the Brooks Range are also available.

Barrow

Archaeological sites in the Barrow area indicate there were Inupiat people living on the land for thousands of years. Barrow's population is 68% Alaska Native, the majority of which are Inupiat Eskimos. Traditional marine mammal hunting and other subsistence practices are an active part of the culture.

There are many artifacts in the area that have yet to be recovered. Please respect the culture, obey the laws, and refrain from digging for artifacts in and around Barrow. Instead, look for displays around town and you will learn about efforts to protect the Inupiat heritage.

While Barrow is known for its efforts in preserving Inupiat culture, its other claim to fame is unusual daylight hours. Though visitors to Alaska experience longer daylight hours throughout much of the state, during the peak summer months the sun does not set in Barrow for 82 days.

Nome

Nome is located on the Seward Peninsula next to the Bering Sea. Late in the 19th century, prospectors found gold near Nome, prompting the last big gold rush in Alaska. Nome provides access to nearly 250 miles of surrounding roads, which visitors can use to explore the surrounding tundra countryside and discover pristine, untouched wilderness.

While exploring the Seward Peninsula in the summer's extended daylight hours, you will have the opportunity to discover wildflowers, moose, reindeer, caribou, birds, and seals. The area also offers excellent fishing for salmon, Arctic char, and grayling.

Alaska Regions:
Southcentral | Southwest | Southeast | Interior | Far North | Yukon, Canada