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Alaska's Wind River Rafting in ANWR- Trip Itinerary

Wind River Rafting and Hiking in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

• Dates: August 29- September 7, 2012

• Region: Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, South-slope of the Eastern Brooks Range

• Cost: $4,200 per person from Fairbanks

Sketch of the Wind River Rafting trip…

The Wind River flows through the southwestern portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), on the south side of the Brooks Range. At the start of the trip, trees are few and small and the tundra beckons exploration. As the river loses elevation the forest takes on a park-like appearance with a moss and lichen carpet. This enchanting boreal forest is home to wildlife typical of arctic Alaska such as grizzly bears and caribou. This country also hosts wildlife more typical of the great interior forests such as beaver, black bear, moose, and lynx. Moose are exceptionally abundant in the lakes near the river. These clear lakes host migrating waterfowl, as well as northern pike and lake trout. Snowy, great gray and northern hawk owls have been spotted here, along with many other arctic and boreal species.

As we paddle the middle and lower river, we will delight in the view of rock faces striated in red, orange, gray, white, and black. Limestone mountains hang over the valley, providing striking contrast with the dark green forests. These limestone mountains make for great hiking and are pocked with caves. These caves provide refuge for Dall's Sheep and in days gone provided shelter for ancient human hunters too.

August and early September are fall in the arctic and a lovely time to be in the wilderness. We will have layover days to hike, fish, or just hang out. Well-drained slopes north of the river provide some excellent hiking opportunities; gradual ridges carry the adventurous hiker towards Dall sheep in the peaks and spectacular views in all directions. A short period of darkness is returning to the arctic midnight, and if the weather is clear, we can see the Aurora Borealis. The tundra is red and yellow. We can find huge patches of blueberries and gorge like the bears.

The river is alternately fast and rocky and calm and sandy. Whichever mood the river chooses is captivating. Caribou from the Porcupine herd flow through the valley by the thousands this time of year on their way south to wintering grounds. Along with the caribou come predators: wolves, grizzly bears, and if we are lucky, the elusive wolverine.

This is a moderately difficult river trip. The river is swift, with Class II and III rapids, and stretches of standing waves and boulder gardens. No experience is required for paddle-rafting, as instruction is provided. Everyone joins in the fun of paddling the boats under the guidance of a raft captain.