Gates of the Arctic · May · Alaska
Gates of the Arctic National Park in May
May is the off-season at Gates of the Arctic National Park. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 35°F and lows 23°F, with about 1.2 inches of rain.
May is rated poor at Gates of the Arctic. Consider Jul–Aug instead.
What to expect
Honest take: May is not the month for Gates of the Arctic. Late-winter ski trips under lengthening days in March and April.
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.
Questions
Is May a good time to visit Gates of the Arctic National Park?
May is the off-season at Gates of the Arctic National Park. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 35°F and lows 23°F, with about 1.2 inches of rain.
What is the weather like in Gates of the Arctic National Park in May?
Highs average 35°F and lows 23°F, with about 1.2 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 May?
May is one of the quietest months at Gates of the Arctic National Park.