Barter Island

Barter Island is a low-lying barrier island on Alaska’s Arctic coast in the Beaufort Sea. The island is the site of the Inupiat village of Kaktovik, which is the island’s primary settlement and service center.

The island is visited for wildlife viewing, notably polar bears that move along the coastal plain in late summer and autumn, and for birdwatching during migration. It also supports small-boat and air access to the surrounding Arctic environment.

An airstrip was established on the island in the mid 20th century and Cold War-era radar and support facilities have been sited in the general area. The community has continued to serve subsistence, commercial and tourism needs since that development.

Barter Island sits on the North Slope of Alaska along the Beaufort Sea. The island is remote, within the Arctic coastal environment, and is connected to regional transport by its local airport.

• Polar bear viewing season: best known as one of Alaska's access points for polar bear viewing on the coastal plain in late summer and autumn
• Local services: serves as a logistical and cultural hub for the surrounding Arctic coastal area despite its small size

What to See #

• Kaktovik community: the Inupiat village of Kaktovik occupies part of the island and serves as the local service center
• Barter Island Airport: a small public airport on the island provides air service to regional hubs and supports tourism