Chinook and chum salmon are important commercial and subsistence fish species that migrate up the larger rivers to spawn. Aside from the varied wildlife habitat, an unusual geological feature exists in the western region of the refuge - the Nogahabara Sand Dunes, one of two sand dune fields in Alaska. This field was formed more than 10,000 years ago when winds blew sands left by melting glaciers into large dunes. Visitor Use Access to the refuge is by boat, aircraft or snowmobile. Wildlife observation, hunting, fishing, camping and boating are permitted on the refuge.
Mosquitoes can be intense and adequate repellent and headnets are necessary.
Contact the refuge for suggestions and precautions for traveling on the refuge and for permitted air charters and guide operators. Smaller villages have limited air service and grocery supplies.