Bering Land Bridge National Preserve

If your pooch is up for a serious adventure, plan an expedition to Bering Land Bridge National Preserve. This massive preserve is located on the Seward Peninsula in northwestern Alaska. The western border of the preserve lies on the United States-Russia fishing boundary, and is about 42 miles from the Bering Strait. Needless to say, you and your pooch will pretty much be off the grid!

First things first. You and your pup need to get to the park. This is a feat in and of itself as there are no roads that lead directly to the park. Visitors must arrive by a small airplane, small boat, or by snow vehicles, dog sleds or skis in the winter. Make sure your pupster is up for this sort of travel. There is an unimproved landing strip, beaches, and lakes that can be used for planes. Please note ATVs and off road vehicles are not permitted. It's best to start at the Bering Land Bridge Visitor Center in Nome. While the preserve is open 24/7, the visitor center is open from Tuesday to Friday from 1 PM to 4:30 PM.

Once you arrive, there are endless opportunities of where you can go. Of course, hiking and backpacking are incredibly pupular activities for visitors, however, there are no designated trails or routes. This means you need to be at the top of your navigation game and have the necessary maps and GPS. The terrain varies, but be prepared to walk on tundra. The squishy turf can be hard on your pup. You may also need to bushwhack through willow and alder. Your trek may take you across the preserve’s ridgelines, or through backcountry rivers. Keep your doggo’s athletic ability in mind when planning your route.

This preserve is prime wildlife viewing habitat. Grizzly bears, moose, and caribou all live in these parts. Little critters like ground squirrels, fox, and rabbits also call this place home. If you see an animal, keep your distance and make sure your pooch doesn’t harass it.

Always be prepared for this kind of rough adventure with enough water for both of you, treats and snacks, and clean-up bags, and be sure to leave nothing behind. 

For true adventurers, there is no place on earth like Bering Land Bridge National Preserve!