The Gates of the Arctic Oolah Traverse

Most people experience Alaska from the comfort of a cruise ship, snapping photos of glaciers from afar and checking it off their bucket list.

But my guess is you’re not like most people.

If you're reading this, you're seeking something deeper.

Twice a year, you can set off on a 9-day adventure specifically crafted for true wilderness seekers.

The Oolah Traverse is a journey through one of the last truly wild places on Earth—Gates of the Arctic National Park.

From vast open tundra to low mountain passes and scrambly summits, this adventure takes you deep into the Brooks Range.

This isn’t just another hike—it's a rare opportunity to experience untouched wilderness and witness the raw beauty of the Arctic landscape.

Oolah Traverse: The Ultimate Alaskan Wilderness Adventure

Imagine standing in the middle of the Brooks Range, with nothing but open tundra, towering peaks, and rivers still frozen from the long winter.

You take a deep breath.

The crisp Arctic air fills your lungs as you set off into the heart of one of the most remote places on Earth.

As you hike through valleys and over mountain passes, each step brings something new—crossing icy streams, walking across firm tundra, and spotting caribou in the distance.

The silence out here is different.

It’s the kind that makes you feel like you’re the only person for miles.

At night, you pitch your tent in wide-open meadows under the midnight sun, watching the colors of the sky shift in ways you’ve never seen before.

The landscape changes around you daily, from gentle tundra slopes to rugged scrambles that challenge you in the best way possible.

The Oolah Traverse isn’t just about the adventure itself—it’s about finding yourself in a place so vast and untouched that it puts everything else into perspective.

Why Choose the Oolah Traverse?

Gates of the Arctic National Park is one of the last intact ecosystems on Earth. Here’s why this hike is a must-do:

• Unmatched Solitude: No roads, no trails, and no crowds—just you and the wild.

• Epic Scenery: Endless tundra, rugged peaks, and serene river crossings unlike anywhere else.

• Wildlife Encounters: Caribou, arctic foxes, and lots of other animals call this remote paradise home.

• A True Wilderness Experience: Experience the raw beauty of the Arctic with expert guides leading the way.

How to Experience the Oolah Traverse

The best time to set off on this adventure is during the short Arctic summer, between June and August when the tundra comes alive with color.

This 9-day trek is best experienced in its entirety, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the landscape and its challenges. With long days under the midnight sun, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the surroundings.

Organized tours offer a seamless experience. They handle logistics like food, gear, and route planning so you can focus on the adventure.

Self-guided trips are possible but require extensive planning and experience in Arctic conditions.

Explore More

If you would like to learn more, here are some links to information about backpacking the Oolah Traverse in the Gates of the Arctic National Park.  

• Untouched Wilderness in America's Northernmost National Park (documentary)

• A Week in the Life: Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska (blog)

9 Day / 8 Night All-inclusive Oolah Traverse Backpacking Adventure

For those seeking an unforgettable multi-day hiking adventure, the 9 Day / 8 Night Oolah Traverse is the ultimate way to experience Alaska’s wild heart.

This adventure, offered by Indigo Alpine Guides, includes everything you need—meals, transportation, and gear rentals—allowing you to fully embrace the challenge without the hassle.

Trek through the incredible Oolah Valley, conquer scrambly summits and experience the vast solitude of the Arctic wilderness. With expert guidance and a small group of like-minded explorers, this 50-mile adventure promises memories that will last a lifetime.

The only problem? This exclusive tour only runs three times a year, and one date is already sold out:

• June 22nd - 30th

• June 23rd - July 1st (women-only trip)

• July 2nd - 10th - sold out

Our friends at Indigo Alpine Guides are offering an exclusive discount to Adventure Fix readers. Book now using the code ADVENTUREFIX and get 10% off your spot.