Alaska Natural History Backpacking Expedition Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

DATES/TIMES: Pre-brief: June 9, 1999 (6:00pm-10:00pm) Expedition: June 11-22, 1999 (12 days) LEADER: John Wenger, Naturalist/Wildlife Biologist FEE: $985 (includes all transportation in Alaska for expedition) QUESTIONS: Write leader, John E. Wenger 3217 Doil Drive Anchorage, AK 99507 Phone: (907) 562-5838 Office hours: 7:00-9:00am Tue or 3:00-5:00pm Fri (Anchorage time) Please call during office hours; otherwise, all requested long distance return calls are collect. E-mail gowild@alaska.net

      This Alaska Natural History Expedition is attended by nature enthusiasts averaging about 30-45 years of age, who are seeking an adventurous and reasonably priced Alaskan wilderness learning experience. Participants provide their own camping gear and food. Due to limited van space--13 maximum.

Getting Started
      The expedition originates and ends at Anchorage. Although you will have received detailed preparation lists and instructions before the expedition begins, your first day starts with an important pre-brief. It will cover all final considerations and equipment checks. You will have one free day to make any needed changes or purchases before the trip departure.

Trip Itinerary
      The leader with his 15-passenger van and trailer will transport the group and gear. Heading north towards the Brooks Range, we’ll make several stops to view the wildlife and scenery including the Alaska Range and Mt. McKinley. That first evening, we’ll camp north of Fairbanks.

      Next day, on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline haul road, we’ll cross the Yukon River and the Arctic Circle. On our last stretch of the haul road, you will cross the highest pass in Alaska. From here on the Continental Divide, we head down towards the North Slope and the Arctic Ocean.
      Finally, near the Atigun River, we’ll park the van and start hiking--eight carefree days of wilderness solitude! Backpacking the Refuge this early in the season has real advantages --less mosquitoes and frozen hard ground for easier footing. The 20-mile looped route allows an easy pace and several relaxing days to explore from each campsite. All campsites are quite different--one near a 100 foot waterfall, another next to an alpine pond, and several in flower-carpeted valleys.
      Returning to the van after the hiking excursion, we’ll head south to camp at Coldfoot. Next day, we’ll visit the University of Alaska Fairbanks Museum of Natural History, dine in Fairbanks and camp near Nenana. On our last day, we'll visit Denali National Park. After returning to Anchorage, there is usually an optional celebration dinner.

Typical Day
      Most of our time is spent observing and photographing nature. Once in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, the typical day is leisurely spent enjoying its natural history while hiking and camping. Don’t forget your camera and lots of film!
      There is no end of thrills in this country--having Dahl Sheep graze around your tent-- finding fossils galore in the limestone mountains--maybe seeing a wolf pass by. You are really alive in this wilderness!
      After discussing potentially dangerous situations and animals, you will have plenty of time to explore and discover the beauty of this land. Even in camp, you are surrounded by nature. Typically, after hiking, the day closes with friends reminiscing about the adventure. You may have to force yourself to sleep as the sun doesn’t set this far north during the summer solstice and you will want to keep witnessing it after midnight.

Fun Learning
      If you enjoy learning about nature, here is the perfect opportunity. Study the natural history of Alaska in a relaxed, nonacademic manner. The leader, and interpretive naturalist and wildlife biologist, will discuss nature from both a natural and scientific viewpoint. In other words, metaphysical aspects of nature will be considered as much as topics as, say, the Alaskan wildflower families or the social order of wolves.
      Hikes are moderately paced to "take in" bird, wild plant, and mammal observations. If you would like pointers, nature photography techniques are discussed and demonstrated.
      Days are long during far northern summers so you will have ample time with the leader to "pick his brain." You decide what Alaska natural history subjects you want to learn more about. Just ask. Of course, you may be as serious about learning as you desire and might prefer to just "sniff the flowers" and think about nature on your own.

Preparation and Responsibilities
      All details of the expedition have been carefully considered. All required permits have been obtained. This expedition is extremely well-planned and organized. Since space is limited, a detailed list of all essential clothing and equipment will be sent after fees are paid. Also, included are packing instructions, the itinerary, suggested foods menus, and all trip details. You must be in EXCELLENT physical condition and have no serious health impairments. Hiking with a full (30-50+ lbs.) backpack up to five miles a day over tundra with hummocks, tussocks, and rocks rising a maximum of 1000 feet will be the most strenuous part of the expedition. You must know, not guess, that you can comfortably handle this trip (if in doubt, request in advance, a physical fitness questionnaire to be completed at home).
      You are expected to be somewhat field experienced. Past overnight backcountry camping is essential. This means you can easily set up your tent, do your own cooking, are familiar with and can operate your equipment, and can prepare and carry your own gear. You are not to become a burden on the leader or the other members due to ill-preparedness, lack of experience, or poor mental and/or physical conditioning for remote field living.
      You will need to arrange for your own transportation to and from the pre-brief and departure site in Anchorage plus any lodging, if needed. You are responsible for meeting the schedule of the expedition and acting in a safe and conscientious manner in the field.

Reservation and Cancellation Policy
      To reserve a place for the expedition before March 12 (90 days before the pre-brief), a $200.00 deposit is required. The balance is due March 12. For those applying after this date, the full fee is required. Reservations are guaranteed when the full fee has been paid and the applicant’s requirements (physical fitness and camping experience) have been approved.
      Cancellation would mean a loss of a percentage of fees paid, as follows: (number of days from pre-brief) within 30 days=100%, from 31-40 days=90%, from 41-50 days=75%, from 51-60 days=60%, from 61-70 days=45%, from 71-80 days=30%, from 81-90 days=15%, before 90 days=$100 (non-refundable fee to cover processing expenses).
      Make check to Alaska Natural History Expeditions. For each person applying, submit clearly printed name, age, complete mailing address, and phone number. Send fee and information to leader John Wenger, 3217 Doil Drive, Anchorage, AK 99507.

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