The wildlife is everywhere here; grizzly bears swipe salmon from spawning rivers in the fall to fatten up for winter and mountain goats graze the wild landscapes. Moose are often seen near willow bogs and lakes, as well as caribou and two herds of transplanted bison. You can also find the largest population of Dall sheep in North America here. Keep a watchful eye open for smaller critters too, from snowshoe hares and beavers to arctic ground squirrels, foxes and porcupines. As well as being on the migratory route for numerous bird species, the wetlands provide nesting sites for trumpeter swans and nesting geese and ducks, and you can also find golden and bald eagles.

This is one of the best places to explore Alaska’s back country. Kayak through fast flowing rivers whilst grizzlies swipe their lunch from either side of you, try rafting or hike throughout the day, which sometime enjoys up to 20 hours of sunlight per day. Yet do not underestimate the forces of nature here, as once you leave the towns and roads, there are no established trails to follow, no facilities and limited search and rescue options, so we do not recommend you travel here individually. Due to the limited search and rescue options, you have to report your itinerary on arrival and stick to it; this is why we recommend staying at Ultima Thule Lodge. One hundred miles from the nearest road, it is run by a couple, Paul (one of the best pilots you will ever come across) and Donna. There are no set itineraries here and armed with a small plane, you set out each day to explore. On one day you may enjoy lunch atop an enormous glacier and on the next you will step off the plane to a spot that no one has been ever before.