Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge

Welcome to Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge, an oasis of wetlands and forests along the banks of the Nowitna River surrounded by alpine tundra hills. To traverse the entire refuge it takes an hour by plane and a week by canoe.

 

Refuge History: The first humans to inhabit the land that is now Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge were hunter-gatherer Native American tribes who arrived over 10,000 years ago. In 1837, the first Russian traders arrived in the region and in the early 20th century the Gold Rush brought many more white settlers. Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1980.

 

Flora and Fauna: Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge helps protect the home of numerous plant and animal species. Some of the plants that grow inside the refuge boundaries include aspens, birches, and willows. Some of the wild critters who call this place home include geese, ducks, cranes, moose, lynx, wolves, black bears, wolverines, grizzly bears, and many others. Please treat their home with respect.

 

For the lover of the outdoors this refuge boasts over 200 miles of canoeing opportunities and so much more. Come on out and have a blast!