How to get to Kiana

Nestled amidst the wilderness of Alaska, Kiana is a small and picturesque settlement where travelers can experience the authentic life of the American North. This secluded corner of the USA attracts those seeking silence, unique landscapes, and the opportunity to witness the confluence of the Kobuk and Squirrel rivers.

Getting here is a true expedition, as the town is cut off from the continent's main road network. Standard car or bus routes are unavailable here, so the primary and most exciting way to reach Kiana remains light aviation.

Since Kiana is located in a remote region with no ground connection to the "mainland," an airplane is the only reliable way to get here. The journey usually begins with a flight to major Alaskan hubs, such as Anchorage or Fairbanks, from where you need to transfer to a flight to a regional center (most often Kotzebue).

The final leg of the journey is performed on small aircraft of local airlines that regularly shuttle between remote villages. Such a flight will not only deliver you to your destination but also gift you with unforgettable bird's-eye views of the tundra and winding riverbeds.

There is no railway connection to the town of Kiana, as there are no train tracks in this part of the state. Trains in the region operate primarily on tourist routes in the central and southern parts of Alaska, not reaching remote settlements above the Arctic Circle.

Rail travel enthusiasts can ride as far as Fairbanks or Anchorage, but the further journey north will have to be planned using air transport. A train trip can be an excellent start to a grand adventure across the USA, but not a method to reach Kiana directly.

Regular intercity buses do not run to Kiana due to the lack of roads connecting the settlement with other cities. Ground public transport does not function here in the conventional sense, and it is impossible to get here "on wheels" from major metropolises.

Bus service is developed only within the state's main highway corridors. Therefore, tourists should consider the bus only as a means to reach the departure airport in major cities, from where they can continue their journey by plane.

Traveling to Kiana by private car or taxi is impossible, as the town is completely isolated from the North American road system. Neither paved highways nor seasonal dirt roads suitable for standard vehicles lead here.

The only exception is movement within the region during the winter period, when locals use snowmobiles to travel between neighboring villages along frozen rivers. However, for classic car tourism, this destination is inaccessible, and the car will have to be left at the transfer point for the plane.

Traveling to remote areas of Alaska requires special preparation and an understanding of local specifics. To ensure your trip to Kiana passes comfortably and safely, please pay attention to the following recommendations.

1. Weather-appropriate clothing. The climate here is harsh and changeable. Be sure to bring warm layered clothing, a windproof jacket, and waterproof footwear, even if you are traveling in summer.
2. Local transport. There is no public transport or standard taxi services within the settlement itself. Distances are small, so you can move around on foot, while for longer excursions, locals use All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) or snowmobiles in winter.
3. Cash. Bank cards may not be accepted in small shops or by local artisans. It is recommended to withdraw a sufficient amount of US dollars in cash in a major city before flying out.
4. Communication and Internet. Be prepared for mobile reception and the internet to be unstable or non-existent. Download offline maps and warn your loved ones about possible delays in replies.
5. Protection from insects. In the summer period (June-August), the number of mosquitoes and midges can be extremely high. A powerful repellent and a mosquito net are mandatory items in your luggage.
6. Respect for local residents. Kiana is home to indigenous peoples. Observe etiquette, do not photograph people without permission, and treat their traditions and private property with respect.
7. Provisions and medicines. The assortment in local shops is limited, and prices are high due to complex logistics. It is better to bring specific medicines, hygiene products, and your favorite snacks with you.

The main advice is to tune in to a calm rhythm of life and enjoy the unique opportunity to see untouched nature far from civilization.