Birnirk Site

The Birnirk site lies about two miles north of Utqiagvik and contains sixteen prehistoric mounds, some reaching heights of fourteen feet. These earthen formations mark the remains of settlements and work areas dating to between 500 and 900 CE.

Researchers began systematic excavations in the 1950s and uncovered harpoon points made from bone and stone, as well as remains of hunting boats. The discoveries showed that this location served as an important center for early coastal hunting in the region.

The site shows how early Arctic inhabitants lived and hunted, leaving traces of their skill in working bone and stone. Visitors can understand how these people adapted to the harsh environment and worked with marine resources.

The land is managed by the local Inuit community and access is restricted to protect the archaeological resources. Visitors should gather information beforehand and treat both the site and the land with respect.

The site demonstrates connections between cultures spanning thousands of kilometers from the Russian Far East through Alaska to Canada. These links reveal that early people built surprisingly mobile networks despite the harsh climate.

Location: Utqiagvik

GPS coordinates: 71.28330,-156.75000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:00