This 2.7 million-acre wilderness preserve sprawls across the northern Seward Peninsula and was named for the land link that connected Alaska and Asia during the last Ice Age when sea levels were about 300 feet lower than today. The park covers the mountainous central section of the peninsula, the northernmost extension of the continental divide.
The Seward Peninsula is the crossroads of the Asiatic-North American flyway, providing ample opportunity to spot more than 100 species of migratory birds. Hawks and eagles are also common. Brown bears, caribou, musk ox, moose, arctic fox and wolverines also take up residence in the preserve. Along the coast, visitors can spot bearded, hair and ribbon seals, walrus and humpback, fin and bowhead whales.
Activities and Attractions
Visit the National Park visitor center in Nome. Enjoy bird watching. The preserve is home to raptors, waterfowl, and some rare Asiatic species. Fly out to Serpentine Hot Springs and spend a few nights in the bunkhouse while you hike among the huge granite tors, which encircle the springs, sightsee, fish, and relax in the warmth of the hot springs.
You can explore remains of the gold rush era and evidence of ancient Eskimo life. The preserve and surrounding areas including Native villages, offer opportunities to observe and learn about traditional subsistence lifestyles and historic reindeer herding. Camping, hiking, backpacking, exploration, nature observation, photography, and coastal boating are among the many possible activities. Winter offers opportunities for snowmobiling, dog sledding, and some cross-country skiing.
Accessibility
Access to the preserve is from Nome, which is served by commercial airlines. There are no roads that lead directly into the preserve. Small air taxi planes and small boats drop off visitors in the backcountry, or visitors can travel by skis, snowmobile or dog sled in winter.
Fees and Visitor Count
There are no entrance fees for the park. Visitor counts are not available.
Weather and Climate
Summer temperatures on the coast are usually about 50°F, ranging up to an occasional period of 90°F in the interior. Summer can see snow, near freezing temperatures and long periods of clouds, wind and rain. Be prepared.
Facilities
Nome Headquarters & Interpretive Center - 907-443-2522 - Located at 214 Front Street in Nome (Open year-round)
History
The preserve, which is one of the most remote national park areas in the country, was established as a national monument in 1978 and a national preserve in 1980.
http://www.nps.gov/bela/index.htm