Selawik River

The Selawik River flows westward through Alaska for 140 miles from the Purcell Mountains near Zane Hills to Selawik Lake at sea level.

The river received its National Wild and Scenic River designation on December 2, 1980, marking a formal recognition of its environmental significance.

The name Selawik originates from the Iñupiat language, where it means 'place of sheefish', reflecting the river's importance for local fishing communities.

Access to the river requires small motorized boats in lower sections, while upper parts need non-motorized watercraft launched from specific aircraft landing sites.

The river transitions from upland terrain with clear water and gravel substrate to tundra environment with slow, tannic water and silt substrate.

GPS coordinates: 66.50156,-158.37710

Latest update: October 29, 2025 18:35