bernieann

We have a bucket list trip planned for the end of August and the first of September. It will only go to Nome and Barrow as we have visited Alaska several times in all seasons but never these tow places.

Does anyone have any advice on what is a "must do" in Nome for 3 days and Barrow in one full day. Are we allowing enough time in these two places?
Thanks.

Gardyloo

IMO a full day in Utqiagvik (formerly Barrow) is more than adequate. Honestly, if your reason for going is to see a community above the arctic circle, and since you're already planning to visit Nome, you might give consideration to substituting Kotzebue for Utqiagvik, since the same plane that serves Nome stops there either coming or going. It would save time and money, and since Kotzebue is also above the arctic circle and on the shore of the Arctic Ocean, that would also tick any bucket list entries, if that's relevant. There's a comfortable Native-owned hotel, the Nullagvik Hotel, located across the street from the seafront.

For Nome, three days would be fine IF you can secure a vehicle to rent, so that you can explore the surprisingly extensive road system that radiates from Nome into the Seward Peninsula bush. In late August to early September the tundra will be gorgeous, and the likelihood of encountering wildlife - muskox, caribou, reindeer, moose, maybe some bears - and lots of birds - is quite high. I'd make it a point to find a vehicle or arrange through your lodgings for a tour of two or more of the three roads leading into the bush. Three days might not even be enough.