Overview
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area located in the southeastern part of Alaska, covering an impressive 700,000 acres of land. The refuge is situated near the Canada-Alaska border, with its headquarters in Tok, Alaska. What makes Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge special is its unique blend of boreal forests, tundra, and wetlands, which provide a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and eagles. The refuge was established in 1980 to conserve and manage the area’s natural resources, and it is now an important stopover for migratory birds and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The refuge’s designation history dates back to the 1970s, when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service began to identify areas in Alaska that were critical for wildlife conservation. After several years of planning and consultation with local communities, the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge was officially established on December 2, 1980, with the signing of Public Law 96-487. Today, the refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in partnership with local communities and other stakeholders, to protect and conserve the area’s natural and cultural resources.
Getting There
To get to Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge, visitors can fly into the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) or the Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), and then drive to the refuge via the Alaska Highway. The nearest town to the refuge is Tok, which is located about 30 miles from the refuge’s headquarters. The GPS coordinates for the refuge’s headquarters are 63.3303° N, 142.9833° W.
The refuge can be accessed via the Alaska Highway, which runs along the western edge of the refuge. The nearest intersection is at milepost 1,293, where visitors can turn onto the Tetlin Refuge Road, a 14-mile gravel road that leads to the refuge’s headquarters. Driving directions from Tok include taking the Alaska Highway east for about 30 miles, then turning left onto the Tetlin Refuge Road. From there, follow the signs to the refuge’s headquarters.
- Airports: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), Fairbanks International Airport (FAI)
- Nearest town: Tok, Alaska
- GPS coordinates: 63.3303° N, 142.9833° W
- Access roads: Alaska Highway, Tetlin Refuge Road
Top Trails & Hikes
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge offers several hiking trails that cater to different skill levels and interests. Some of the top trails and hikes in the refuge include:
- Tetlin Lake Trail: A 3.5-mile loop trail that takes visitors around the shores of Tetlin Lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife viewing opportunities. The trail is considered moderate, with some steep sections and uneven terrain.
- Northway Trail: A 7-mile out-and-back trail that follows the Northway River and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is considered challenging, with some steep sections and river crossings.
- Deadman Lake Trail: A 2.5-mile loop trail that takes visitors around the shores of Deadman Lake, offering opportunities to see wildlife such as bears, moose, and eagles. The trail is considered easy to moderate, with some uneven terrain.
Visitors should note that the trails in the refuge are not always well-marked, and it’s recommended to bring a map and compass or GPS device to navigate. Additionally, the refuge’s trails are subject to change due to weather conditions and maintenance, so it’s a good idea to check with the refuge’s headquarters for up-to-date information before heading out.
Trail Difficulty Levels
The trails in Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge are classified into three difficulty levels:
- Easy: Trails that are relatively flat and well-maintained, with minimal obstacles and challenges.
- Moderate: Trails that have some steep sections, uneven terrain, and potential obstacles such as river crossings or muddy sections.
- Challenging: Trails that are steep, rocky, and have significant obstacles such as river crossings, steep drop-offs, and uneven terrain.
Camping Options
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge offers several camping options for visitors, including:
- Developed campgrounds: The refuge has two developed campgrounds, located near the headquarters and at Deadman Lake. The campgrounds offer basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and outhouses.
- Backcountry camping: Visitors can also camp in the refuge’s backcountry, but must obtain a free permit from the refuge’s headquarters and follow all regulations and guidelines.
- Cabin rentals: The refuge offers several cabins for rent, which can be reserved through the refuge’s headquarters. The cabins are equipped with basic amenities such as beds, tables, and outhouses.
Visitors should note that camping in the refuge is subject to regulations and guidelines, and it’s recommended to check with the refuge’s headquarters for up-to-date information before planning a camping trip.
Wildlife
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including:
- Bears: The refuge is home to both black bears and grizzly bears, which can be seen in the area’s forests and tundras.
- Moose: Moose are common in the refuge, and can be seen in the area’s wetlands and forests.
- Caribou: The refuge is a critical habitat for caribou, which migrate through the area in the spring and fall.
- Eagles: The refuge is home to several species of eagles, including bald eagles and golden eagles, which can be seen soaring overhead or perched in trees.
Some of the best viewing spots for wildlife in the refuge include:
- Tetlin Lake: The lake is a popular spot for viewing waterfowl and other birds, as well as bears and moose.
- Northway River: The river is home to a variety of fish species, and is a popular spot for viewing eagles and other birds.
- Deadman Lake: The lake is a popular spot for viewing bears, moose, and eagles, and is also home to a variety of fish species.
Fishing & Water Activities
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge offers several opportunities for fishing and other water activities, including:
- Rivers: The refuge has several rivers, including the Northway River and the Tetlin River, which offer fishing opportunities for species such as salmon, trout, and grayling.
- Lakes: The refuge has several lakes, including Tetlin Lake and Deadman Lake, which offer fishing opportunities for species such as lake trout and grayling.
- Species available: The refuge is home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, trout, grayling, and lake trout.
Visitors should note that fishing in the refuge is subject to regulations and guidelines, and it’s recommended to check with the refuge’s headquarters for up-to-date information before planning a fishing trip. Additionally, visitors will need to obtain a fishing license and any necessary permits before fishing in the refuge.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge depends on the season and the activities you have planned. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
- Spring (April-May): The spring is a great time to visit the refuge, with mild temperatures and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. However, some trails and roads may be closed due to snow and ice.
- Summer (June-August): The summer is peak visitation season, with warm temperatures and long days. However, the refuge can be busy, and some areas may be closed due to maintenance or wildlife activity.
- Fall (September-October): The fall is a great time to visit the refuge, with cool temperatures and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. The refuge’s trails and roads are generally open, and the scenery is particularly beautiful during this time of year.
- Winter (November-March): The winter is a great time to visit the refuge for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter activities. However, some trails and roads may be closed due to snow and ice, and the refuge’s headquarters may have limited hours.
Visitors should note that the refuge’s weather can be unpredictable, and it’s recommended to check the forecast before planning a trip. Additionally, the refuge’s hours of operation may vary depending on the season, so it’s a good idea to check with the refuge’s headquarters for up-to-date information.
Permits & Fees
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge has several permits and fees that visitors should be aware of, including:
- Entry fees: There is no entry fee to visit the refuge, but some activities such as fishing and camping may require a permit or license.
- Backcountry permits: Visitors who plan to camp in the refuge’s backcountry must obtain a free permit from the refuge’s headquarters.
- Fishing licenses: Visitors who plan to fish in the refuge must obtain a fishing license from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
Visitors should note that the refuge’s permits and fees are subject to change, and it’s recommended to check with the refuge’s headquarters for up-to-date information before planning a trip.
History & Culture
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge has a rich and diverse history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The refuge is home to several indigenous communities, including the Tetlin Indian Reserve and the Northway Village, which have traditionally used the area for hunting, fishing, and gathering.
The refuge also has a significant exploration history, with several expeditions passing through the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The refuge was established in 1980, and has since been managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in partnership with local communities and other stakeholders.
Today, the refuge is an important cultural and spiritual site for the indigenous communities of the region, and visitors can learn about the area’s history and culture at the refuge’s headquarters and visitor center.
Planning Your Trip
Planning a trip to Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge requires some advance planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:
- How many days to spend: The amount of time you spend in the refuge will depend on your interests and the activities you have planned. A minimum of 3-5 days is recommended to explore the refuge’s trails, lakes, and wildlife viewing areas.
- What to bring: Visitors should bring plenty of water, food, and layers, as the refuge’s weather can be unpredictable. Additionally, visitors should bring a map, compass, and GPS device, as well as any necessary permits and licenses.
- Guided tours available: The refuge offers several guided tours and programs, including wildlife viewing tours, hiking trips, and cultural programs. Visitors can contact the refuge’s headquarters for more information and to book a tour.
Visitors should note that the refuge’s hours of operation may vary depending on the season, and it’s recommended to check with the refuge’s headquarters for up-to-date information before planning a trip. Additionally, visitors should be prepared for variable weather conditions, and should bring plenty of supplies and gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.