How to get to Scammon Bay

When planning a trip to Scammon Bay, you are setting off for a secluded corner of Alaska, situated in the picturesque Yukon River Delta. This small settlement attracts enthusiasts of adventure tourism and authentic indigenous culture who wish to witness the rugged beauty of the north, far away from bustling metropolises. Reaching Scammon Bay is a true quest for the traveller, as the town is isolated from the road network and is accessible primarily by air or water.

Since the town of Scammon Bay itself does not have a large airport capable of receiving major airliners, air travel here inevitably involves a transfer. Tourists must first fly to one of the regional aviation hubs in the USA (most often via Anchorage or Bethel), from where light aircraft flights operate to remote villages.

A flight on a small plane over the boundless tundra will be a unique experience in itself, allowing you to appreciate the scale and wild nature of the region from above. Please note that flights to such remote locations are heavily dependent on weather conditions, so it is wise to allocate extra time for potential delays.

Railway connections to Scammon Bay are completely absent, as the difficult terrain and permafrost make laying tracks in this region impossible. The Alaska Railroad covers only the central and southern parts of the state, not reaching the west coast.

If you are travelling across the USA by train, the final point of your rail route will be major cities like Anchorage or Fairbanks. The remaining, quite significant part of the journey to the bay will have to be covered exclusively by air transport.

It is impossible to get to Scammon Bay by bus: the town is not connected to the continent's road network. Intercity bus services, which are common in other regions, simply do not exist here due to the lack of highways.

Any attempts to find a ground route will only lead you to the airports of major cities. Logistics in this part of Alaska are built on aviation, so a bus may only be useful for transfer to the terminal at your point of departure.

A trip to Scammon Bay by car is not possible, as no roads lead to the settlement. The town is surrounded by wild tundra and bodies of water, making it inaccessible for classic car tourism.

The only conditional "ground" transport here are snowmobiles in the winter period and quad bikes (ATVs) in the summer, used by locals within the village and its surroundings. Renting a car only makes sense in the state's major cities to get to the airport, from where you will fly to the coast.

Travelling to the remote corners of Alaska requires thorough preparation, as conditions here differ significantly from the usual urban comfort. Here are several important tips that will help make your trip to Scammon Bay safe and pleasant.

1. Clothing and Gear. The weather here is changeable and harsh. Be sure to bring multi-layered clothing, a windproof jacket, and waterproof footwear even in summer. In winter, special arctic gear is essential.
2. Cash. In small settlements, bank cards are not accepted everywhere, and ATMs may not work or may be absent. Withdraw a sufficient amount of US dollars in cash in advance.
3. Provisions and Medicines. The assortment in local shops is limited, and prices can be very high due to complex logistics. Bring a supply of necessary medicines and your preferred snacks or dietary items (including Halal options if required).
4. Alcohol Regulations. Many indigenous settlements in Alaska are "dry" (alcohol-free) or have strict restrictions. Please check the rules regarding the import and consumption of alcohol in advance to ensure compliance with local laws and respect for the community.
5. Communication and Internet. Be prepared for mobile reception and the internet to be slow or intermittent. Download offline maps and inform your family about potential unreachability.
6. Respect for Culture. You are a guest in a community with rich traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of local residents or their private property.
7. Insects. In the summer period (June-August), there is a huge number of mosquitoes and midges in the tundra. A powerful repellent and a mosquito net are mandatory items in your luggage.

Observing these simple rules will help you focus on the main thing — the unique nature and distinctive atmosphere of this region.