Trail Creek Caves, Archaeological site in Seward Peninsula, Alaska
Trail Creek Caves is an archaeological site comprising twelve limestone caverns located along Trail Creek in northwestern Alaska. The site sits within Bering Land Bridge National Preserve in a remote area with restricted access.
Archaeological excavations between 1949 and 1950 uncovered stone tools and bone fragments dating back approximately 8,500 years. These findings revealed that humans first occupied this region much earlier than previously understood.
These caverns served as shelters for people who made their lives in this harsh Arctic region for thousands of years. Today, visitors can observe how early inhabitants used these spaces and adapted to their demanding environment.
Access to the caves is highly restricted and requires special permits as well as guided tours with authorized experts. Plan ahead to check accessibility and understand the requirements for any potential visit.
A tooth recovered from one of the caves dates back roughly 9,000 years and revealed genetic material showing these early residents had ancestry distinct from later populations. This DNA evidence reshaped understanding of how the region was initially colonized.
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