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1st Departure:
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06.10.2009
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Provider:
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Alaska Alpine Adventures
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Destination:
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North America > USA > Alaska
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Duration:
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12 days
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Skill Level:
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Intermediate
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Challenge:
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Comfort:
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The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is simply one of the least visited and remote areas left in North America and, despite the media attention it receives, it offers the opportunity for unparalleled exploratory adventure. Though the exact number is unknown, it is estimated the 19 million-acre refuge, an area the size of South Carolina, receives approximately 1500 recreational visitors a year. It is this type of trip in this type of wilderness that inspires Alaska Alpine Adventures and we will visit the refuge again in 2009 to lead this spectacular trip down ANWR's Kongakut River.
ANWR lives up to its description as 'America's Serengeti' and this vast area supports more species and habitat diversity than any conservation area in the northern hemisphere. The US Fish and Wildlife Service calls the refuge "the only conservation system unit that protects, in an undisturbed condition, a complete spectrum of the arctic ecosystems in North America." Caribou, polar bears, grizzlies and muskoxen wander the north slope of the Brooks Range and the highest concentration of nesting golden eagles in Alaska make the Kongakut River corridor their summer home. Humans also have a long history in the Arctic and the Gwich'in people of Northeast Alaska and Northwest Canada have depended on this vast area and its Porcupine Caribou herd for thousands of generations.
Our schedule on the Kongakut and our 10 full days in the refuge will allow us ample opportunities to hike, fish, photograph and savor this phenomenal ecosystem. Using inflatable rafts, we'll paddle the 75 miles of the Kongakut at a fairly leisurely pace taking time at the put-in and along the river itself for day hikes and exploration. The river itself is mainly class II with one short section of class III whitewater and is an excellent choice for those with little to no rafting experience. As we float and paddle our way down toward the Beaufort Sea, breathtaking scenery will accompany us. This interactive visit to one of earth's most spectacular conservation areas will allow you the opportunity to contemplate the inherent value wilderness in your own life and those of future generations.