Nestled alongside the vast Arctic Ocean, Utqiagvik stands proud as the northernmost inhabited point in the United States. Typically overlooked on most Alaskan interaries, a trip up to Utqiagvik promises a truly unique adventure to the heart of a frozen world.
Formerly Known as “Barrow”
In 2016, Barrow underwent a transformative name change. Its residents voted to rename the village back to Utqiagvik, its traditional Iñupiaq name, bridging the present with their ancestral roots. The name isn’t just symbolic but an affirmation of the region's indigenous identity. While you will often still see the name Barrow referenced in older travel materials and government documents, the official name is Utqiagvik, and should be used during your trip.
Why You Should Visit
Utqiagvik isn't merely a geographical wonder; it's a living tapestry of Iñupiaq culture. It proudly holds the title of the largest Iñupiaq settlement in Alaska, echoing centuries of history, traditions, and enduring spirit.
By making the journey up to this northern world, you will enter into a place of extremes. You will have the chance to walk across tundra, see rare arctic wildlife, and interact with the rich and beautiful culture of the Iñupiat people.
Top Experiences in Utqiagvik
Visit the Iñupiat Heritage Center
Located in Utqiagvik, the Iñupiat Heritage Center is a treasure trove of history and culture. You can visit the center on your own or book a guided tour through the Top of the World Hotel. This is the perfect spot to start your trip, with in-depth exhibits and live demonstrations that introduce and inform visitors about Iñupiat traditions.
Live demonstrations: Live demonstrations, such as traditional dances and games, occur often, throughout the summer, from 1:30-3:30. If you are visiting outside of the summer season, call ahead for hours. Iñupiat traditions.
Take a Photo at the Whale Bone Arch
No trip to Utqiagvik is complete without a photo op at the Whale Bone Arch. Here you can stand under the Whale Bone Arch, a monument to the whaling traditions that have sustained the people of this region for generations. It's a must-visit photo point that captures the spirit of Utqiagvik and a great way to memorialize your trip to the far north.
Touch the Arctic Ocean
If you visit in the summer, you’ll have the unique opportunity to experience a sensation few on this planet get to experience – touching the Arctic Ocean. In the summer, the sea ice retreats far enough to unveil the unique beaches of Utqiagvik. This is your chance to walk the shores of the Arctic Ocean and even dare to dip a toe into its icy embrace (or opt for a full polar bear plunge if you’re feeling bold).
Dance under the Northern Lights
Winter nights in Utqiagvik offer the perfect chance to witness the Aurora Borealis. With the wide horizon of the tundra, you can enjoy a full display of the lights as they dance above you. You will need to visit during a time when Utqiagvik experiences true darkness. Ensure your camera is ready to capture this ethereal phenomenon, and download an aurora app to monitor solar activity during your stay.
Visit the Birnirk National Historic Landmark
Barely a few miles from town, this landmark narrates stories of human settlements dating back 1,000 to 1,500 years. Traverse through 16 dwelling mounds and marvel at how driftwood and whalebones shape these ancient homes. Dive deeper into Iñupiat history through artifacts offering insights into the links between prehistoric cultures and their modern descendants.
Book a Top of the World Hotel Day Tour
If you’re looking to experience everything Utqiagvik has to offer, without overlooking the immense cultural and historical significance of every sight, consider booking a day trip with the Top of the World Hotel. This all-inclusive tour is your ticket to experiencing Utqiagvik's highlights. From tundra walks, spotting wildlife, and historical tours, this tour ensures every moment promises a memory. The tour also includes transportation, in case you haven’t booked a car for your stay.
Go Birding in the Arctic
As summer beckons, migratory birds grace Utqiagvik and the tundra becomes a birder’s paradise. While you are exploring the road outside of town, keep your binoculars handy to look for snowy owls, eiders, and loons. You can also download the eBird app for up-to-date sightings.
Go Whale Watching
Utqiagvik’s beaches become nature's theater in summers. With a large migration of whales throughout the summer, many of these mighty creatures venture close enough that you can spot them from shore. Keep your eye out for the spouts of bowhead or beluga whales.
Take a Drive on the Road System
Utqiagvik doesn’t boast an extensive road network, but the roads you can travel here offer a great way to experience all of the beautiful wonders of the arctic. In the summer, you can spot seals, arctic foxes, and caribou, and if the stars align, a rare glimpse of a polar bear. You also have a chance to drive to the most northern point of the United States, the perfect spot for another photo op!
Life in Utqiagvik - What You Should Know
Life in Utqiagvik is unique – even by Alaska’s standards. If you’re visiting in the summer, be prepared for 24-hour daylight from mid-May to mid-August (known as the “Midnight Sun”), and be prepared for constant darkness if you visit around the winter solstice.
Even in the summer, the climate can be deceptively cold despite the constant sun, with average summer temperatures around 40°F. Grocery shopping can be an expensive affair due to transportation logistics. It's advised to budget for higher prices, especially at gas stations where fuel prices can be significantly higher than the mainland U.S. due to the annual shipment of gasoline.
Getting to Utqiagvik
Utqiagvik is accessible primarily by air. Major Alaskan airlines operate flights to and from Utqiagvik, ensuring it's well-connected despite its remote location. Make sure to book in advance, especially if visiting during peak tourist seasons.
