How to get to Point Hope

When planning a journey to Point Hope, prepare for a visit to one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in North America, located on the coast of the Chukchi Sea. This remote Arctic village attracts adventure seekers with its unique culture and harsh northern nature; however, getting here is a true adventure in itself. Due to geographical isolation, air travel remains the primary and practically the only way for tourists to enter the town, as there are no roads connecting it to the rest of the United States.

The fastest and most reliable way to reach this Arctic corner is by air. Travellers are welcomed by the regional Point Hope Airport (PHO), which provides a vital link between the settlement and larger Alaskan transport hubs, such as Kotzebue.

Flying here offers a chance to see boundless snowy expanses and ice ridges from a bird's-eye view. The airport is located in immediate proximity to the residential area, so after landing, you will be at your destination almost immediately, without the need for a complex transfer.

It is impossible to reach Point Hope by train, as the railway network of the United States does not extend to such remote regions of Alaska. Permafrost and difficult terrain make laying rail tracks in this area a technically unfeasible task.

Train enthusiasts will have to limit themselves to routes in the southern or central parts of the state. For a visit to this Arctic village, the only reasonable alternative remains light aviation.

Bus service to Point Hope is completely absent, as the settlement is not connected by roads to the rest of the continent. Intercity buses do not run here, and standard ground routes are simply inapplicable due to the lack of highways.

The region's isolation makes it impossible to use public road transport to enter the town. Tourists should plan their flight in advance, as it is impossible to get here overland by bus or any other long-distance wheeled transport.

A trip to Point Hope by private or rented car is impossible: no roads lead to the town from other parts of the country. The road network ends hundreds of kilometres before the Arctic Circle, separating the village with impassable tundra and mountains.

Although local residents use vehicles to move within the settlement, cars can only be delivered there by sea or plane. Therefore, planning a road trip to this region makes no sense — you cannot drive here on four wheels on your own.

A trip to such a remote Arctic region requires careful preparation, as conditions here differ significantly from standard tourist destinations. To ensure your journey is comfortable and safe, please consider the following recommendations:

1. Clothing and Gear. Weather in the Arctic is unpredictable even in summer. Be sure to bring multi-layered clothing, a windproof jacket, thermal underwear, and waterproof footwear.
2. Transport within the town. The village is small and can be explored on foot. For longer distances, locals use ATVs or snowmobiles; taxis in the traditional sense may not be available.
3. Finances. Bring a sufficient supply of US dollars in cash. ATMs may not work or be unavailable, and cards are not accepted in every shop.
4. Food and Water. Food prices in local stores can be very high due to complex logistics. It is advisable to bring a supply of snacks and necessary medications, as the pharmacy range is limited.
5. Respect for Traditions. The majority of the population are Indigenous people (Inupiat). Always ask for permission before photographing people or their property, and treat whaling traditions with respect.
6. Alcohol Policy. Many settlements in Alaska have strict restrictions or a total ban on the import and sale of alcohol ("dry laws"). Check the current rules for Point Hope in advance to avoid legal issues.
7. Wildlife. You are in polar bear territory. Never walk alone outside the village without an escort and be extremely vigilant, especially during dark hours.
8. Souvenirs. As a unique memento of your trip, you can purchase items made by local craftsmen from whale baleen or bone, but ensure you keep receipts for customs control.

Following these simple rules will help you enjoy the unique atmosphere of the edge of the world, see the Northern Lights, and experience an ancient culture without unnecessary hassle.