The Koyukuk River on which Bettles is located, was the traditional dividing line between the Inupiak Eskimos and the Athabaskan Indians. Located with Bettles is the Native Community of Evansville which is unique by being both an Indian and Eskimo Village. The Native Community continues to live the subsistent life style of their ancestors gathering local berries and harvesting fish from the Koyukuk in the summer months. During the fall locals from both Bettles and Evansville gather their yearly meat supply by hunting moose and caribou. Skins from these animals are used to make various clothing and native arts.
Native crafts are available for purchase at the lodge.
During the 1970's recognizing the uniqueness of the Brooks Range, the United States Congress set aside approx. Named after the famous naturalist Robert Marshall, The Gates of the Arctic National Park, is five times larger than Yellowstone and encompasses a ecosystem that is unique to the world. So unique is the area, much of it has been designated a World Ecological Zone. Located within the boundaries of the park are the Arrigetch Peaks which are a spectacular display of granite peaks. Many summer adventurers visit the Brooks Range and Gates of the Arctic.