Alatna River

Dedicated a wild and scenic river on December 2, 1980, the Alatna River drains the central Brooks Range. Wildlife, spectacular scenery and interesting geologic features abound along the river corridor. The river is not runable from Summit Lake and requires a several mile portage due to low water.

Approximate Length	83 mi / 133.5 km
Scenic Quality	High; varies from snow-capped mountains to spruce-hardwood forest
Recreational Opportunities	Plentiful sightseeing, nature study, hiking, photography, fishing, and floating
Geologic Features	Rugged mountains of central Brooks Range, including Arrigetch Peaks
Natural Resources	Easily observed, variety of large and small mammals, migration route for arctic caribou herd
Cultural Resources	The Alatna has a rich cultural history. This valley is traditional hunting territory for the Koyukon Athabaskans and the Nunamiut Eskimos trace their origins to the upper regions. Dozens of historic and prehistoric sites spanning 4000 years have been identified.

The Wild and Scenic Alatna River is located in Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is a remote wilderness area located above the Arctic Circle and far from any roads. Most visitors access the Park and Preserve via local communities by bush planes. Others hike in from the Dalton Highway or the village of Anaktuvuk Pass. Access to this park requires careful planning, but the experience that awaits those who enter is one of a kind and well worth the effort.