Unalakleet River
Alaska
The clear, smooth waters of the Unalakleet River originate in the rolling Nulato Hills, which divide rainfall and snowmelt between the Norton Sound and the Yukon River Basin. The river starts out channelized and running swiftly. Downstream of the designated section, it meanders across the arctic tundra 10 miles to the seaside village of Unalakleet, located on Norton Sound. For most of its length, the river has a varying pool/riffle nature, which offers a great diversity of river characteristics and boating and fishing opportunities.
"Unalakleet" is Inupiat for "place where the east wind blows," named by a people who have lived in the area for centuries. Early settlements were often located on rivers or along the coast because fishing and hunting opportunities were abundant, and rivers provided an excellent way to travel between distant villages. The Unalakleet River was a major avenue of trade in the 19th century, connecting coastal Eskimos, Yukon River interior peoples, and Russian merchants. In 1898, reindeer herders from Lapland settled along the river, and shortly thereafter, prospectors seeking gold on the nearby Seward Peninsula traveled over the Kaltag Portage and downriver to the coast. Subsequent changes included a telegraph line and associated cabins along the river and establishment of a mail route.
The Iditarod National Historic Trail, which runs alongside the Unalakleet River to the Bering Sea coast, follows the trail once used by Alaska Native hunters, Russian explorers, and gold seekers.
Designated Reach
December 2, 1980. The segment of the main stem from the headwaters in T12S, R3W, Kateel River meridian, downstream to the western boundary of T18S, R8W.
Outstandingly Remarkable Values
Fish
The Unalakleet River supports a salmon fishery which in the past has produced 100,000 fish. Chinook, coho, pink, and chum salmon spawn here. Annual runs provide income for both local inhabitants and sportfishing businesses. Arctic grayling, Arctic char, and whitefish are important subsistence species.
Scenery
The scenery along the Unalakleet is subdued. The Tulato Hills are low and round-topped; prominent hills can be seen through breaks in the vegetation and along the long, straight sections. Largely, the views are pleasing combinations of plants, clear water, gravel bars, cut banks, inflowing streams, and driftwood. Old Woman Mountain is the most dominant feature for five to six miles above and below the confluence with the Old Woman River. The aesthetic qualities of the diverse plant communities add immeasurably to the overall river environment.
Wildlife
Wildlife are important as commercial, subsistence, and recreation resources. Moose, caribou, and bear are the primary species of interest for the sport hunting trade. Trapping of marten, lynx, fox, wolf, beaver, and muskrat supports the local economy.
Managing Partners And Contacts
Documents
Classification/Mileage
