Kobuk Valley National Park

The peaks of the Baird Mountains stretch far into the distance and are so remote that many of them have not been named. An aerial view on a clear fall day is a breathtaking sight.
Caribou, sand dunes, the Kobuk River, Onion Portage - just some of the facets of Kobuk Valley National Park. Thousands of caribou migrate through, their tracks crisscrossing sculpted dunes. The Kobuk River is an ancient and current corridor for people and wildlife. For 9000 years, people came to Onion Portage to harvest caribou as they swam the river. Even today, that rich tradition continues.
Map showing location of park.
Cyrus Harris receives the Eileen Devinny award from Emily Creek and Ann Carlson
Cyrus Harris awarded 2025 the Eileen Devinny Award
The Eileen Devinney Award is an award presented annually by Western Arctic National Parklands to a member or group of the Northwest Arctic community. In 2025, the award is presented to Cyrus Naungaq Harris of Kotzebue.
Ed Vigilone sits for an interview in 2023.
Ed Viglione recognized as 2025 Frontline Hero of the Year by National Park Service
The National Park Service has named Edwin “Ed” Talaq Viglione as the 2025 Frontline Hero of the Year, recognizing his exceptional dedication to public service and his quiet leadership within Western Arctic National Parklands.
sun setting on sand dunes
Photo by NPS Photo
A green pack canoe sits on the bank of the Kobuk River. Clouds are mirrored on the water's surface.
Photo by NPS Photo / Justine Schmidt
aerial view of snow capped mountains
Photo by NPS Photo
The Jade Mountains reflected in the Kobuk River
Photo by NPS Photo / Annie Carlson
pink flower growing in sand
Photo by NPS Photo
Caribou bone sitting in the sand
Photo by NPS Photo
Single caribou with antlers in velvet
Photo by NPS Photo
Dark skies shadow the horizon. A rainbow is illuminated above Niaktovik Creek
Photo by NPS Photo / Amy Martin (2022 Artist in Residence)