Utqiagvik (formerly known as Barrow) really is second to none when it comes to showcasing the unique, rugged wilderness of Alaska.
Can you Travel to Utqiagvik, Alaska?
The short answer is: Yes, absolutely. But there are one or two catches. Allow us, to dig a little deeper:
The northern climate can and will be rugged all year, but some seasons yield more extreme arctic weather than others. This circumstance makes Utqiagvik only accessible for limited periods throughout any given year, which usually is from June to October.
Its remote location only allows for two ways of getting in and out. Plane or boat. While there are roads in the town and cars do drive there, the region is not connected to the rest of Alaska’s road network.
To reach Utqiagvik, the most common way is by flying into the Wiley Post-Will Rogers Memorial Airport, which receives regular flights from Anchorage and Fairbanks.
If you decide to embark on this unique adventure, make sure to pack warm clothing, be mindful of the limited daylight hours during winter, and ensure you have appropriate accommodations and transportation arrangements in place.
What to do in Utqiagvik
Observing Aurora Borealis
Being the U.S.’ northernmost town has its benefits, especially when you’re interested in observing aurora borealis – more commonly known as the northern lights. Its location above the arctic circle (What’s that?) makes the small community one of America’s prime locations for witnessing the unique spectacle on the night sky.
During the winter months, when darkness prevails, the night sky comes alive with vibrant colors dancing across the horizon, creating a truly magical experience.