Kobuk Valley Wilderness

Kobuk Valley Wilderness is an expansive protected area in northwestern Alaska that stretches across arctic tundra and sand formations between mountain ranges. The landscape consists of wide open terrain with varying elevations and several waterways running through it.

Archaeological sites in the valley show that people have inhabited and moved through this region for at least 10,000 years. Continuous settlement patterns indicate a long history of human adaptation to this arctic climate.

The Iñupiat people have hunted and fished in this region for generations, following the seasonal movements of caribou herds across the Kobuk River.

Access requires charter flights from distant towns, as no roads lead into this protected area. Visitors should expect harsh conditions year-round and come fully prepared with appropriate gear.

The valley contains distinctive sand dunes that form an unusual geological feature in an otherwise arctic landscape. These dunes resemble conditions that researchers study to better understand environments similar to Mars.