Noorvik, Inupiat settlement in Northwest Arctic Borough, United States
Noorvik is an Inupiat settlement located along the Kobuk River in the Arctic region of Alaska. The community occupies a small area surrounded by boreal forest and water in a remote part of the state.
The settlement began in the early 1900s when families from nearby Deering relocated to establish a permanent base. They chose this location for its access to water resources needed for hunting and fishing.
Residents practice subsistence fishing, hunting, and gathering that follow the seasonal rhythms of the Arctic. These activities shape the daily life and social connections within the community.
The local airport serves as the primary way to reach the settlement by air. Resources and supplies are limited in the community, so it is wise to plan ahead for what you might need during your stay.
The name comes from the Inupiaq language, meaning a place people moved to. This origin reflects how the settlement was founded by families seeking a new home with better resources.
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