Bering Land Bridge National Preserve
The Bering Land Bridge Preserve is one of America’s most remote and least-visited national parks. Reindeer, muskoxen, moose, and polar bears roam across the stark primeval landscape. Bowhead and beluga whales and walrus swim just offshore. In the summer, a storm of migrating birds darkens the sky. The preserve offers excellent viewing of plovers, jaegers, and gyrfalcons. Thousands of years ago, earth and ice may have bridged the 55 miles between Alaska and Siberia, allowing people and animals to cross into North America from Asia; the present-day preserve contains prehistoric sites of early humans, as well as geologic remnants of ancient volcanic activity. Visitors to the Inupiat Eskimo villages near the preserve have an opportunity to learn about Native subsistence, reindeer herding, and the relationship between Alaska’s indigenous peoples and its wildlife.
Visit the Serpentine Hot Springs, where granite spires called “tors” stand guard over steaming pools. A public use cabin that sleeps 20 is next to the natural springs; reservations are recommended. The weather can be harsh even in the summer. Visitors should come prepared for dramatically changing conditions. The isolation here demands self-reliance.
Commercial jets serve Nome and Kotzebue. In summer, charter a boat or plane into the preserve; in winter, rent snow machines, dog sleds, or ski planes.
National Park Service or (907) 443-2522