Noatak River - Nome, AK

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Noatak River

GPS Coordinates: Unknown

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The Noatak River beginning at its headwaters in the Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve gently meanders 396 miles in a northwesterly direction to the village of Noatak before turning south and flowing into the Kotzebue Sound of the Chukchi Sea.

From Lake Matcharak the river rolls smoothly through broad forested and lake dotted basins, narrow steep walled canyons and then becoming braided as it flows through the lowland flood plains.

The gentle rolling of the river is only interrupted occasionally by Class I-II White Water. Generally portages or lining are not required along this gentle river. Average trip duration's span 16 days from the put in to the Noatak Village. Below Noatak the river flows through the Igichuk Hills to where it spreads widely open into a muddy delta favored by migratory waterfowl and shorebirds.

The average trip length from the headwaters to the town of Noatak generally takes 16-days (approximately 350-Miles). Paddlers continuing down river through the mud flats of the delta to Kotzebue are cautioned to be careful crossing the frigid waters of the Hotham Inlet.

Facilities: None.

Best Time To Visit: Unknown

Fees: None.

Accessibility: Unknown

Rules: Self-sufficiency is the rule. While temperatures may exceed 90 F. the visitor should prepare for snow which can occur anytime of year. Good rain gear, insect repellent and head nets are essential. Due to dry conditions, campfires should be built on gravel bars as tundra fires are a problem during the dry months of summer.

Directions: The most common put-in is at Lake Matcharak although numerous other headwater lakes exist. Access is generally by float plane from Bettles or Kotzebue both of which offer regular scheduled air service, food and lodging.

Map: Click here for a map to Noatak River

Reservations: Unknown

Attractions Near
Noatak River

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
Noatak National Preserve

Address

Gates of the Arctic National Park

201 First Avenue

Fairbanks, Alaska 99701

Phone
General: (907) 456-0281

Website

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