1. Introduction
Kotzebue, known as Kikiktagruk in Iñupiaq, which translates to ‘almost an island’, is situated on the gravel spit of the Baldwin Peninsula. This town extends for three miles and is located 26 miles north of the Arctic Circle, primarily inhabited by individuals of Native descent.
2. Transportation and Tourism
Daily passenger flights connect Kotzebue with Anchorage and Nome, and there is a designated sea plane landing point within the town. While tourism is not a significant industry here, the region attracts visitors to the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, the Noatak National Preserve, and the Kobuk Valley National Park.
3. Natural Beauty and History
The vast solitude and silence of Alaska are palpable in and around Kotzebue, where one can appreciate the majestic natural beauty this area has to offer. Furthermore, a rich historical narrative is prevalent in the town’s museums and art galleries.
4. Northwest Arctic Heritage Centre
This outstanding museum provides insight into the natural history of the region, featuring wildlife exhibits that highlight the endurance of local fauna. Visitors can gain knowledge about the protected Arctic circle as well as the cultural heritage of the Indigenous populations that have inhabited this area for generations. The knowledgeable staff are eager to share their insights, and the center offers films depicting Eskimo life.
Conveniently located just two minutes from the airport, it serves as an excellent initial stop following your arrival.
Sulianich Art Center
This center showcases an array of beautifully crafted local items, making it an excellent venue for individuals seeking unique souvenirs as well as for those who wish to simply browse through exquisite arts and crafts. Expect to see handcrafted jewelry, baskets, paintings, and various artworks produced by local artisans, as well as a selection of mammoth fossils and carvings.
Occasionally, you may have the opportunity to interact with the artists themselves at the Sulianich Art Center, located on Third Avenue in Kotzebue.
Noatak National Preserve
The breathtaking landscape of the Noatak National Preserve captivates visitors every year. Due to the absence of roads leading to this park, a small aircraft is necessary to access the area.
Camping along the gravel banks allows for exploration and enjoyment of the natural vistas. Day trips to the most picturesque locations, including Tulugak Lake and the Noatak River, are also possible.
Moreover, native wildlife such as moose, caribou, musk ox, and both black and brown bears can frequently be spotted here.
Cape Krusenstern National Monument
This area offers a remarkable opportunity to traverse the tundra and observe local wildlife, including herds of musk ox. The landscape is characterized by lagoons, limestone hills, and ridged beaches that collectively contribute to its distinctive appearance.
This site also boasts a rich history, with numerous research endeavors currently underway. Artifacts and items over five thousand years old have been uncovered, providing a captivating glimpse into Alaska’s past.
Access to this location, like many near Kotzebue, is primarily achieved via small aircraft, often as part of organized tours or arranged privately.
Serpentine Hot Springs
The hot springs have been regarded as a significant location for centuries, offering respite from the cold conditions. The waters are celebrated for their health benefits and have historically served as a gathering point for Eskimo shamans and subsequent Native healers.
Visitors can access the springs via hiking, dog sledding, snow machines, or by plane to a nearby small landing strip. Regardless of how you choose to arrive, taking the time to experience the therapeutic water is highly recommended.
Fishing Tours
If you seek a secluded fishing experience in absolute tranquility, Kotzebue provides that opportunity. Numerous locations offer fly-in fishing adventures in exquisite and remote areas.
Fishing enthusiasts can expect to catch species such as Dolly Varden, Northern Pike, and Sheefish. Additionally, opportunities exist for Arctic Grayling and Chum Salmon fishing.
Consult with your guides to articulate your fishing preferences, and they will identify the ideal location. Ensure you bring your own fishing gear, whether purchased or rented locally, as local tour companies typically do not provide equipment.
Bayside Restaurant
If you are in search of a substantial local meal, Bayside Restaurant is an excellent choice. The menu features fresh seafood as well as both American and Asian culinary options. This relaxed, family-friendly establishment fosters a welcoming ambiance.
Bayside is conveniently located on Shore Avenue in Kotzebue and also provides lodging accommodations.
Indigenous Cemetery
Although visiting a cemetery might seem unsettling, this site represents a celebration of life and offers intriguing insights. Centrally located in the town, this expansive cemetery includes many adorned spirit houses, constructed atop numerous graves.
This site exemplifies the cultural richness and Native influences present within the community, and visitors are encouraged to observe the whale bone fences encircling select marked graves.
Kayaking in Kobuk National Wild River
The gently flowing river offers an excellent setting for boating and kayaking around Kotzebue. The National Park area encompasses 61 miles of river, extending even further beyond.
Visitors may participate in a fly-in tour with their own gear if they possess sufficient expertise, or alternatively, opt for a guided kayaking or floating excursion with knowledgeable locals who understand the river.
Though sections of the river may vary in current speed, cautious exploration is advised, and inexperienced participants should ensure accompaniment by an informed individual.
Kobuk Valley National Park
The Kobuk Valley has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Local Inupiaq Eskimos continue to hunt caribou in this area, albeit utilizing motor boats and rifles as opposed to traditional canoes and spears.
This region is distinguished by its wetlands, sand dunes, and mountains, presenting spectacular sceneries and optimal exploration conditions.
Whether one seeks remarkable photographic opportunities, wishes to observe migrating caribou, or endeavors to experience remote fishing, Kobuk Valley National Park is certainly a noteworthy destination in Kotzebue.
Enjoy the Midnight Sun
From early June, the sun remains above the horizon for six consecutive weeks, allowing for an endless summer in the town. This phenomenon can be disorienting to both residents and visitors, impacting their internal timekeeping.
It is an unusual sight to witness the area illuminated at all hours, without a distinct nighttime. Typically around the summer solstice, both tourists and locals ascend to elevated points to celebrate the longest and brightest day.
Wildlife Tours
As indicated in prior sections discussing National Parks, numerous opportunities exist for wildlife observation in this region. Diverse avian species, including Eagles, Falcons, and Ospreys, as well as the infrequently encountered Siberian Tit Parus Cinctus, can be observed.
Larger fauna visible during wildlife excursions includes Dall sheep, Moose, Musk ox, black bears, grizzly bears, and wolf packs. An awe-inspiring spectacle on wildlife tours is the migration of the Alaskan Caribou.
Flight-seeing Tours
Building upon the wildlife tours, flight-seeing excursions offer a comprehensive view of the remarkable landscape and natural environments surrounding Kotzebue.
This mode of travel is essential for reaching many remote locations nearby, allowing passengers to appreciate expansive vistas from the air. It is possible to visit multiple parks in a single day trip or arrange drop-offs at various sites for further exploration.
Although flight-seeing day tours can be costly, they provide an invaluable experience for those visiting Kotzebue.
Jump into the Arctic Ocean
For some, leaping into the Arctic Sea is a notable aspiration. In Kotzebue, the premier location for this activity is from a local bridge, colloquially referred to as “bridge jumping.”
It is advisable to participate in this experience under the guidance of a tour operator or local expert, as unprepared attempts can be hazardous.
Uutuku Restaurant and Takeaway
This convenient Asian fast food establishment is ideal for visitors and workers returning late to town, operating until 3 AM.
Menu highlights include hot and spicy chicken served with rice. Uutuku can be found on Friends Way and also provides delivery services.
