Getting to Gates of the Arctic National Park
Gates of the Arctic National Park sits in AK, United States, with Prudhoe Bay the closest mapped town — about 210 mi (339 km) away, not a drive.
Reached by bush plane from Bettles or Coldfoot, and the park itself has no roads and no maintained trails.
Drive times from Gates of the Arctic National Park
Gates of the Arctic National Park sits close enough to Kobuk Valley National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Kobuk Valley National Park | 157 mi (253 km) | 4 hr 10 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Prudhoe Bay | 210 mi (339 km) | Not a drive |
| College | 253 mi (407 km) | Not a drive |
| Kotzebue | 255 mi (410 km) | Not a drive |
| Fairbanks | 255 mi (411 km) | Not a drive |
| Utqiagvik | 257 mi (413 km) | Not a drive |
| Badger | 261 mi (420 km) | Not a drive |
| Eielson Air Force Base | 277 mi (445 km) | Not a drive |
| Salcha | 287 mi (462 km) | Not a drive |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Gates of the Arctic National Park?
Prudhoe Bay, about 210 mi (339 km) away on the map. Reached by bush plane from Bettles or Coldfoot, and the park itself has no roads and no maintained trails. That distance is not a drive.
Where should I stay when visiting Gates of the Arctic National Park?
The practical mainland bases are Prudhoe Bay, College, and Kotzebue. Reached by bush plane from Bettles or Coldfoot, and the park itself has no roads and no maintained trails.