Gates of the Arctic National Park

Plan Your Trip

Planning Your Trip

Costs and Fees

No fees or registration are required to enter the park; however visitors are requested to stop at one of the park’s visitor centers to attend a backcountry orientation. During an orientation you can get valuable information about current weather, fire and wildlife alerts, backcountry safety, bear safety and Leave No Trace camping techniques.

Best Time to Go

Mid-June to September is usually the best time for backpacking and hiking. July through August is generally the best time to take float trips. The central Brooks Range has and relatively short, cool summers. The entire region receives continuous sunlight during the summer for at least 30 days, and there are long days of daylight for months on either end. Thunderstorm activity is common during June and July. July through September is the wettest time of year and prevailing winds are out of the north. Freezing temperatures may occur at any time of the year, but particularly from mid-August on. Be prepared for wet ground and possible cold weather in June. July may be the only month that snow does not fall. Insect protection is a must during the summer months.

Year-Round Temperatures

Average monthly high temperatures range from an average of 70℉ in July to -20℉ in December.

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