Getting to Kobuk Valley National Park
Kobuk Valley National Park sits in AK, United States, with Kotzebue the closest mapped town — about 97.5 mi (157 km) away, not a drive.
Reached by bush plane from Kotzebue or Bettles.
Drive times from Kobuk Valley National Park
Kobuk Valley National Park sits close enough to Gates of the Arctic National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Gates of the Arctic National Park | 157 mi (253 km) | 4 hr 10 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Kotzebue | 97.5 mi (157 km) | Not a drive |
| Nome | 264 mi (424 km) | Not a drive |
| Utqiagvik | 279 mi (449 km) | Not a drive |
| Prudhoe Bay | 336 mi (541 km) | Not a drive |
| College | 360 mi (580 km) | Not a drive |
| Fairbanks | 363 mi (584 km) | Not a drive |
| Badger | 369 mi (594 km) | Not a drive |
| Healy | 377 mi (606 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 Kobuk Valley National Park?
Kotzebue, about 97.5 mi (157 km) away on the map. Reached by bush plane from Kotzebue or Bettles. That distance is not a drive.
Where should I stay when visiting Kobuk Valley National Park?
The practical mainland bases are Kotzebue, Nome, and Utqiagvik. Reached by bush plane from Kotzebue or Bettles.