Gates of the Arctic · January · Alaska

Gates of the Arctic National Park in January

January is the off-season at Gates of the Arctic National Park. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average -11°F and lows -20°F, with about 0.71 inches of rain.

January is rated poor at Gates of the Arctic. Consider Jul–Aug instead.

Full park guideAll parks in January
RatingPoor
CrowdsQuiet
Avg high / low-11°F / -20°F
Rain0.71 in

What to expect

Honest take: January is not the month for Gates of the Arctic. Extreme cold and darkness. Only for experienced expeditions.

Local tip

Go with an experienced outfitter unless you're a seasoned wilderness traveler. Rescue is far away and slow.

Good to know

  • Best months overall: Jul–Aug.
  • Closest airport: Fairbanks (FAI), then a bush flight.
  • Before you go: Access only by air taxi from Fairbanks, Bettles or Coldfoot, or on foot from the Dalton Highway. Check current conditions on nps.gov.

2-day Gates of the Arctic itinerary · Packing list

Questions

Is January a good time to visit Gates of the Arctic National Park?

January is the off-season at Gates of the Arctic National Park. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average -11°F and lows -20°F, with about 0.71 inches of rain.

What is the weather like in Gates of the Arctic National Park in January?

Highs average -11°F and lows -20°F, with about 0.71 inches of rain. Conditions are poor this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.

How crowded is Gates of the Arctic National Park in January?

January is one of the quietest months at Gates of the Arctic National Park.