Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are two national parks that offer vastly different experiences for visitors. If you’re looking for rugged wilderness and abundant wildlife, Gates of the Arctic may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you’re interested in outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery, New River Gorge may be more your style. In this article, we’ll be comparing these two amazing parks, highlighting the unique features of each and helping you decide which one is the best fit for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time national park visitor, you’re sure to find something to love about these two incredible destinations. So, grab your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and let’s hit the road!
Hiking Trails in Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve, located in Alaska, is a rugged wilderness with limited trail systems and no roads. Hiking here offers a true backcountry experience with opportunities for solitude and exploration. The hardest hike in the park is the 8-mile Schroeder Creek trail, which is challenging due to its steep inclines and rocky terrain. On the other hand, the easiest hike is the short 1-mile trail to the Arrigetch Peaks, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, located in West Virginia, is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The park has a variety of trails ranging from easy river walks to strenuous ridge hikes. The hardest hike in the park is the Endless Wall Trail, a strenuous 8.5-mile hike along the cliffs of the New River Gorge. On the other hand, the easiest hike is the 1-mile River Trail, which takes visitors along the banks of the New River and offers views of the park’s iconic bridge.
Both Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offer a range of hiking experiences for visitors of all abilities. Whether you’re looking for a challenging backcountry adventure or an easy scenic walk, these parks have something for everyone.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Valley Trail | 25427.572 | 6.7056 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Anhinga Trail | 2414.01 | 0 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook Trail | 321.868 | 0 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Gumbo Limbo Trail | 643.736 | 0 | Easy | loop | 3.5 |
| Long Pine Key Trail | 24944.77 | 0 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Mahogany Hammock Trail | 643.736 | 0 | Easy | loop | 3.5 |
| Everglades Coastal Prairie Trail | 27358.78 | 4.8768 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Pinelands Trail | 643.736 | 0 | Easy | loop | 3.5 |
| Everglades National Park East Entrance to Flamingo Scenic Route | 58258.108 | 7.9248 | Easy | point to point | 4.5 |
| Nine Mile Pond | 8851.37 | 0 | Easy | loop | 5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tolmie Peak Trail | 8851.37 | 463.9056 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Skyline Trail | 8529.502 | 535.8384 | Moderate | loop | 5 |
| Comet and Christine Falls | 6920.162 | 610.8192 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Camp Muir Route Via Skyline Trail | 13518.456 | 1403.9088 | Very Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Burroughs Mountain Loop Trail | 15127.796 | 780.8976 | Moderate | loop | 5 |
| Naches Peak Loop Trail | 5310.822 | 193.8528 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Spray Park Trail to Mount Pleasant | 11104.446 | 635.8128 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Mount Fremont Lookout Trail | 9012.304 | 348.996 | Moderate | out and back | 5 |
| Pinnacle Peak Saddle Trail | 3862.416 | 321.8688 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Summerland Trail | 13196.588 | 655.9296 | Moderate | out and back | 4.6 |
Wildlife in Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park & Preserve are two vastly different parks, not only in terms of geography but also in terms of the wildlife that can be seen there.
At Gates of the Arctic, visitors can expect to see a variety of Arctic wildlife, such as caribou, grizzly bears, and wolves. The park is also home to a number of bird species, including the peregrine falcon and the rough-legged hawk. In addition, the park is home to a variety of plant species, including the Arctic willow and the Arctic poppy.
On the other hand, New River Gorge is located in the southern part of the United States and is home to a completely different set of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see white-tailed deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species, including the American bald eagle and the pileated woodpecker. The park is also home to a wide variety of plant species, including the black locust and the tulip poplar.
Both parks offer unique opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats and offer a chance to appreciate the diversity of life in the United States.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Northern Harrier | Northern Harrier |
| Sharp-Shinned Hawk | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
| Osprey | Osprey |
| Tree Swallow | Tree Swallow |
| Mallard | Mallard |
| Canada Goose | Canada Goose |
| Lincoln’s Sparrow | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
| Ruby-Crowned Kinglet | Great Horned Owl |
| American Robin | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| Great Horned Owl | Barn Swallow |
| Red-Tailed Hawk | Savannah Sparrow |
| Northern Flicker | Great Blue Heron |
| Merlin | Hermit Thrush |
| Savannah Sparrow | European Starling |
| Hermit Thrush | Northern Pintail |
| American Kestrel | American Wigeon |
| Bald Eagle | Green-Winged Teal |
| Northern Pintail | American Pipit |
| American Wigeon | Killdeer |
| Green-Winged Teal | Brown-Headed Cowbird |
| American Pipit | Hairy Woodpecker |
| Swainson’s Thrush | Red-Breasted Nuthatch |
| Hairy Woodpecker | White-Crowned Sparrow |
| Red-Breasted Nuthatch | Northern Shoveler |
Mammals
| Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Coyote | Coyote |
| American Beaver | American Beaver |
| Muskrat | Muskrat |
| Black Bear | Big Brown Bat |
| Porcupine | Bobcat |
| Red Fox | Striped Skunk |
| Mink | Little Brown Bat |
| Wolf | Deer Mouse |
| Short-Tailed Weasel | Raccoon |
| Varying Hare | Black Bear |
| River Otter | Porcupine |
| Common Shrew | Silver-Haired Bat |
| Red Squirrel | Hoary Bat |
| Montane Shrew | Long-Tailed Weasel |
| Lynx | House Mouse |
| Wolverine | Mountain Lion |
| American Marten | Black-Tailed Deer |
| Grizzly Bear | Wolf |
| Meadow Vole | Long-Legged Myotis |
| Moose | Long-Eared Myotis |
| Least Weasel | Ermine |
| Pygmy Shrew | California Myotis |
| Northern Bog Lemming | Snowshoe Hare |
| North American River Otter | |
| Masked Shrew |
Fish
| Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Longnose Sucker | Rainbow Trout |
| Lake Trout | Eastern Brook Trout |
| Northern Pike | Brown Trout |
| Eelpout | Coho Salmon |
| King Salmon | Chinook Salmon |
| Slimy Sculpin | Mottled Sculpin |
| Chum Salmon | Slimy Sculpin |
| Dolly Varden | Threespine Stickleback |
| Arctic Grayling | Kokanee |
| Pink Salmon | |
| Dolly Varden | |
| Cutthroat Trout |
Amphibians
| Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Wood Frog | Tiger Salamander |
Reptiles
| Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Western Terrestrial Garter Snake | |
| Common Garter Snake | |
| Rubber Boa |
Insects
| Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Mourning Cloak | |
| Cabbage White | |
| Silvery Blue | |
| Purplish Copper | |
| Anise Swallowtail |
Beautiful Landscapes in Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is located in northern Alaska and is best known for its vast wilderness and stunning landscapes. The Brooks Range mountains run through the park and offer breathtaking views, while the Noatak River provides opportunities for rafting and fishing. The park is also home to glaciers, lakes, and valleys that are perfect for exploring on foot.
On the other hand, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is located in southern West Virginia and is best known for its stunning gorge and river. The New River Gorge Bridge, which is over 800 feet above the river, provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park is also home to hiking trails, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting opportunities. The New River Gorge is also home to several historic sites, including the Nuttallburg coal town and the Kaymoor mine complex.
Both parks offer unique and beautiful landscapes that are worth exploring. Whether you prefer the rugged wilderness of Alaska or the stunning gorges of West Virginia, each park offers its own unique charm. Visitors can hike, raft, fish, or just relax and take in the stunning views. Whether you are a seasoned outdoors person or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are both worth visiting.
Things To-Do and Activities in Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are two distinct and unique national parks, each offering a diverse range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. While both parks are popular for hiking and backpacking, they also offer other unique experiences.
Gates of the Arctic is the perfect destination for those who love wilderness, solitude and adventure. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, rafting, and fishing in the park’s numerous streams and rivers, as well as birdwatching and wildlife observation. The park is also known for its stunning views of the northern lights, which can be seen from late summer to early spring.
On the other hand, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is popular for its unique geology and scenic beauty. The park is a mecca for rock climbers, with over 1,400 established climbing routes and numerous opportunities for sport and traditional climbing. The park is also a popular destination for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing, as well as for scenic drives and picnicking.
Overall, both Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offer a diverse range of outdoor activities and are popular destinations for visitors looking to experience the beauty of nature in unique and exciting ways. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous wilderness experience or a scenic and relaxing getaway, both parks offer something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are two very different parks with unique weather patterns. Gates Of The Arctic is located in the Arctic Circle and experiences long, harsh winters with 24-hour darkness and sub-zero temperatures. Summer temperatures can reach up to 60°F and the park experiences long daylight hours. On the other hand, New River Gorge is located in West Virginia and experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 90°F and winter temperatures can drop to 20°F.
The best time to visit Gates Of The Arctic is during the summer months, when temperatures are warmer and there is more daylight for outdoor activities. Winter is not recommended for visitors due to the harsh weather conditions. New River Gorge is popular among visitors during the fall months, when the leaves change color and provide a beautiful scenic view. Summer is also a popular time to visit, with warm temperatures and opportunities for activities such as hiking, camping, and white-water rafting. Winter is the least popular time to visit due to the cold temperatures, but some visitors enjoy the park for its snow-covered scenery and winter sports.
In conclusion, Gates Of The Arctic and New River Gorge offer unique experiences for visitors and the best time to visit depends on individual preferences and the type of activities they are interested in. Both parks provide stunning scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation, but the weather patterns and temperatures vary greatly between the two parks.
Family Friendliness of Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are two unique destinations for families seeking adventure and beauty. Gates of the Arctic is known for its remote wilderness and rugged terrain, making it a perfect destination for families who love to hike, camp, and explore. On the other hand, New River Gorge is known for its stunning scenery, including the New River Gorge Bridge, which is the longest steel arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere.
When it comes to family-friendly activities, New River Gorge offers many options, including hiking trails, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. The park also offers scenic drives, picnic areas, and ranger-led programs that are perfect for families. In contrast, Gates of the Arctic is more remote and requires a bit more preparation, but the rewards are well worth it. With fewer visitors and a more rugged landscape, families can enjoy a true wilderness experience.
If you’re traveling with children, New River Gorge is the better choice. With its variety of family-friendly activities and easy access, it provides a unique and memorable experience for families. Gates of the Arctic, on the other hand, is better suited for families with older children who are up for a challenge and eager to explore. Both parks offer breathtaking beauty and plenty of opportunities for adventure, but New River Gorge provides a more accessible and family-friendly experience.