Nome Census Area: Bering Land Bridge, Gold Rush History and Nature

The Bering Land Bridge National Preserve is located in Alaska’s Nome Census Area. Its archaeological, paleontological and biological resources bear witness to the history of the Bering Land Bridge, which once connected Asia and North America. Earth history and cultural significance are closely intertwined here: the preserve encompasses both striking geological features and traces of human use.

Bering Land Bridge and Earth History

The preserve includes volcanic lava flows, coastal formations, paleontological sites and the Serpentine Hot Spring area. The Serpentine Hot Springs area includes two thermal areas: Serpentine Hot Springs and Arctic Hot Springs. Serpentine Hot Springs has been used for millennia, and both traditional and modern uses continue. This connection between Earth history and ongoing use gives the place another dimension beyond a simple description of its landscape.

Gold Rush History and Cultural Heritage

The Cape Nome Mining District Discovery Sites include the Discovery Claim on Anvil Creek, the E.O. Lindbloom Placer Claim, No. 1 on Snow Creek, and Nome Beach. Together, the sites form a National Historic Landmark associated with Alaska’s first major placer gold discovery. Their names refer to different locations within this historical context; the designation applies to the Discovery Sites as a whole.

In the city of Nome, the Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving and sharing the culture, history and craftsmanship of Nome and the Bering Strait. Its main gallery features the permanent exhibition “Nome: Hub of Cultures and Communities Across the Bering Strait.” The museum is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 12 to 5 p.m.; check opening hours before your trip.

Other places in Nome also connect the city’s history with specific buildings and memorials. Old St. Joe’s Hall is one of the city’s oldest surviving buildings and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places; the building is not always open. A self-guided “Historical Walking Tour” leads to historic buildings that have survived numerous fires and floods. If you are planning the walk, check whether the accompanying handout is available. Life-size bronze statues of the “Three Lucky Swedes” stand in Anvil City Square.

The Katirvik Cultural Center in Nome aims to bring together cultural events and opportunities for language exchange. Private tours can be arranged by phone; check whether a visit is possible before your trip. During the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, the Burled Arch serves as the official finish line. Outside the racing season, visitors in Nome can take photos near the arch.

Routes, Landscapes and Wildlife Viewing

The Nome-Taylor Highway, locally known as Kougarok Road, is a scenic route to varied landscapes, historic relics and possible wildlife sightings. A turnoff beyond the Safety Bridge leads to interpretive panels and a boardwalk for wildlife viewing. The Nome-Council Road passes through coastal grasslands, dunes and meadows along Safety Sound. Road conditions can vary in winter.

An old section of road leads to a viewpoint on the Solomon River. Salmon, Dolly Varden and Arctic grayling can be spotted there in late July and August; river conditions can vary. The Nome area also has 14 rivers. Most are accessible by road and can be used for fishing.

On Nome’s beaches, you can look for sea glass, dishes, pottery shards and other colorful objects from the region’s past. Rules for collecting may vary depending on land management. Another photo opportunity in Nome is the largest gold pan in the United States. The Swanberg Dredge is within walking distance of downtown Nome.

Summer Activities and Timing

During the summer months, ranger programs at the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve Heritage Center may include talks, hikes and Junior Ranger programs. Offerings may vary, so check the schedule for your visit. Two time frames are particularly relevant for planning: ranger programs are seasonal, while the fish mentioned above can be spotted at the Solomon River viewpoint in late July and August. This lets you match your travel interests to the seasons when they are most suited.

Explore more destinations

Explore more destinations: Nome, Gambell, Aleutians West Census Area, Ketchikan Gateway Borough, North Slope Borough, Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area, Southeast Fairbanks Census Area and Hoonah-Angoon Census Area.

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