Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge

Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge spans an area of 1.637 million acres, comparable to Delaware’s size. It is situated on the Arctic Circle, with about a third of the refuge above and two-thirds below. The refuge is an outstanding example of Alaska’s boreal environment, predominately made up of black and white spruce with a few white birch and poplars. The region has frequent thunderstorms and lightning strikes due to its normally brief and hot summers.

This causes a constant cycle of burns and recovery, resulting in various habitats with various plant species and stages of maturity within each species, defining the older and younger burns. Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge aims to protect migratory bird breeding habitats, and almost 160 bird species spend all or part of the year on refuge holdings. All birds will likely value Kanuti as a nesting location as wetlands disappear from areas outside of Alaska.

Activities At Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge

The Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for boating and hunting. By canoe, explore the refuge’s waterways and immerse yourself in the tranquil natural environment. Additionally, engage in regulated and responsible hunting while appreciating the refuge’s diverse wildlife population. Enjoy the refuge’s outdoor activities and natural scenery.

Boating At Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge

A fun way to experience the refuge is to travel by river. Several rivers that cross the Dalton Highway provide access to Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge, as do flights. Trips down rivers should be preceded by a stop or call to the refuge office in Fairbanks for information on water levels and any potential use restrictions or limitations. A sizable bolder field separates the Dalton Highway and the refuge’s border, so consider that if you’re going the Kanuti River from that route.  

Hunting At Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge

Due to the closing of the Kanuti Controlled Use Area, there are few options for moose hunting on the Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge for visitors, but other areas of the refuge are open and reachable by road. Some creeks and rivers are less used due to shallow water and big boulders; however, in some areas, those who want to float down rivers in non-motorized boats can be picked up by rented planes or motorboats.

Location         Alaska, United States

Phone number: +1 907-456-0329

Email: kanuti_refuge@fws.gov

Hours: 3: 20 pm- 12 am

Coordinates:  66.416667°N 151.833333°W

Area:  1,640,000 acres (6,600 km2)

Established     1980