wilderness.net
1
The Andreafsky Wilderness is a vast expanse of alpine and wetland tundra, located in the Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge. Flowing through this Wilderness are the Andreafsky River and its East Fork, which flow southwest along parallel paths and eventually drain into the Yukon River, outside the Wilderness boundaries. Here you will find moose, foxes, beavers, martens, minks, wolves, wolverines, caribou, large populations of black and brown bears, and millions of salmon. Forests of white spruce and balsam poplar grow along the riverbanks through the Wilderness. Near the headwaters, the forests give way to alpine tundra, and a relatively flat, treeless delta. Fishing is excellent, and the bears know it. Large portions of both the Andreafsky and East Fork have been designated National Wild and Scenic Rivers, attracting river runners and anglers. However, the East Fork runs closer to the mountains and with more trees.
Elevations within the Andreafsky Wilderness boundaries range from about 50 feet above sea level to nearly 2,800 feet in the northeastern portion of the Wilderness. Average summer temperatures range from the upper 40s (Fahrenheit) to low 60s. Winter temperatures average well below freezing—ranging from 0 to 15 degrees—and 18.6 inches of precipitation falls annually.
Maps
Digital and paper maps are critical tools for wilderness visitors. Online maps can help you plan and prepare for your visit ahead of time. You can also carry digital maps with you on your GPS unit or other handheld GPS device. Having a paper map with you in the backcountry, as well as solid orienteering skills, however, ensures that you can still route-find in the event that your electronic device fails.
Online Maps
Printed Maps
Rules & Regulations
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited in all wilderness areas.
This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters.
Wilderness-Specific Regulations
Learn more about
why regulations may be necessary in wilderness.
Applicable Wilderness Law(s)
Want to Volunteer for Wilderness?
People who volunteer their time to steward our wilderness areas are an essential part of wilderness management. Contact the following groups to inquire about volunteer opportunities. Groups are listed alphabetically by the state(s) in which the wilderness is located.