Thunderstorm activity is common during June and July. Generally June through September is the wettest time of year. Prevailing winds are out of the north. Freezing temperatures may occur at any time of the year, but particularly from mid-August on. July may be the only month that snow does not fall.
Winter is extreme, long and cold.
Snow falls 8 or 9 months of the year, averaging 60-80 inches. The backcountry orientation will be offered at the Bettles Ranger Station, Coldfoot Visitor Center, and Anaktuvuk Pass Ranger Station. Backcountry users that don't pass through one of these locations should call the Bettles Ranger Station. Cape Krusenstern National Monument, Kobuk Valley National Park, and Noatak National Preserve are administered by the National Park Service. The Coldfoot Visitor Center offers evening programs during the summer.