North Fork Koyukuk River

In l929, Bob Marshall set out from Wiseman to explore the unmapped region of the Brooks Range along the North Fork of the Koyukuk River. Marshall's imagination was captivated by the two rugged mountains (Boreal Mountain and Frigid Crags) flanking the North Fork of the Koyukuk River. He christened this mountain portal "Gates of the Arctic".

In the shadow of Boreal Mountain and Frigid Crags, we begin our 125-mile river trip down the North Fork of the Koyukuk River. Wild and beautiful, the North Fork cuts through the rugged mountains of the Brooks Range. From the edge of the treeline, we float south through canyons and into the broad valley of the foothills. As we leave the rock and tundra-capped mountains, the river meanders through taiga forest dotted with lakes. Grayling, char, pike, whitefish and occasionally salmon share the river with us. We watch for moose, wolves, bears, and lynx as we glide quietly past wide gravel bars and shores forested in spruce, poplar, and birch. Waterfowl and beaver watch us as we paddle into the vast interior of Alaska.

For the most part the river is not difficult, but we must be alert. A captain in each raft provides instruction to his crew so previous river experience is not necessary. Inflatable kayaks or canoes are available to paddlers with previous Class II + paddling experience. Kayakers and canoeists should know how to back ferry to avoid sweepers.

Optional trip- Gates of the Arctic Backpack: Immediately preceding the Koyukuk River trip, the Gates of the Arctic Backpack explores the headwaters of the North Fork of the Koyukuk with a trek right through the "Gates", Marshall's massive mountain portal. For the backpacker who wants more…, combine the Gates of the Arctic Backpack with the North Fork of the Koyukuk River for a scenic two week Brooks Range adventure.

Included in the price of the trip: All air transportation beyond Fairbanks; camp food and cooking gear; boating gear; safety & repair gear; and trip leaders.

For dates and prices of the Koyukuk River trip
For more river and backpack trips in the Gates of the Arctic National Park

ABEC's Alaska Adventures, LLC
PO Box 10791 | Fairbanks, Alaska 99710
Toll Free: (877) 424-8907 | Fax and Local Phone: (907) 457-8907
abec@abecalaska.com