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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Fossil Gap Trail

Fairbanks, Alaska · Yukon-Koyukuk County

The Fossil Gap Trail, in the White Mountains National Recreation Area, is maintained for winter recreation including snowmobiling, skiing, dog mushing, snowshoeing, and fat-biking. The trail crosses open meadows and then follows Fossil Creek drainage downstream for approximately 1.5 miles before climbing off the creek …

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About Fossil Gap Trail

The Fossil Gap Trail, in the White Mountains National Recreation Area, is maintained for winter recreation including snowmobiling, skiing, dog mushing, snowshoeing, and fat-biking. The trail crosses open meadows and then follows Fossil Creek drainage downstream for approximately 1.5 miles before climbing off the creek and back into the spruce. The trail parallels the Fossil Creek before crossing open meadows to Beaver Creek. Beaver Creek has sections of overflow and open water even during winter. The trail continues through spruce forests and across the bridge at Montana Creek to the junction with Colorado Creek Trail. The Fossil Gap Trail is non-motorized only during the summer, May 1 - October 14. Only the southern portion of the trail from Beaver Creek to Caribou Bluff Cabin is suitable for hiking, which is a popular day hike while on a float trip down Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River.

How to Get There

Access this trail from the Colorado Creek Trailhead at milepost 57 Elliot Highway. The trail insects Colorado Creek Trail about 20 miles from the trailhead.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Fossil Gap Trail

Heading to Fossil Gap Trail? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Fossil Gap Trail?

No central reservation system listed for Fossil Gap Trail. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/16655) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Fossil Gap Trail?

Access this trail from the Colorado Creek Trailhead at milepost 57 Elliot Highway. The trail insects Colorado Creek Trail about 20 miles from the trailhead.

How do I contact Fossil Gap Trail?

You can reach the park at phone: 907-474-2200 or email: EasternInterior@blm.gov.