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ORV destination photo
OTZ destination photo

ORVOTZ

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior perspective of the Noatak River Delta and the distant peaks of the Brooks Range, along with the expansive Kotzebue Sound upon arrival.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🛶

Noatak River Delta

One of the largest mountain-rimmed river basins in the world, showing spectacular braided channels near the coast.

🏔️

Baird Mountains

To the north, the snowy peaks of the western Brooks Range provide a dramatic backdrop against the flat tundra.

🧊

Kotzebue Sound

Direct views of the gateway to the Chukchi Sea, which is often filled with sea ice until late spring.

🏙️

Kotzebue Spit

A perfect view of the narrow gravel spit where the town of Kotzebue is located as you bank for landing.

🌅

Arctic Horizon

Vast, unobstructed views of the Arctic horizon, where the sun barely sets during the summer solstice.

This is a very short flight (approx. 15-20 minutes), so keep your camera ready from the moment of takeoff. Sit on the right for the best view of the Brooks Range and the Noatak Delta. In winter, look for tracks on the ice which are often winter trails used by snowmachines.

Left Side Highlights
8.3
🌊

Hotham Inlet

Also known as Kobuk Lake, this massive brackish body of water dominates the southern view as you depart Noorvik.

🌿

Kobuk River Delta

Witness the intricate network of wetlands, sloughs, and marshes where the Kobuk River meets the sea.

🦅

Selawik Wildlife Refuge

Expansive views of the distant protected tundra, a critical habitat for migratory birds and caribou.

🏔️

Baldwin Peninsula South

The low-lying hills of the peninsula come into view as the aircraft crosses from the mainland.

Watch for the unique 'pothole' lakes known as thermokarst lakes, which are especially visible in the summer months when the permafrost melts. Morning flights provide excellent soft lighting over the Hotham Inlet.

Top Activities in Kotzebue
Route Information

Distance: 69 km (43 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 7 min

Departure: ORV (66.81790161, -161.01899719999997)

Arrival: OTZ (66.88469696, -162.598999)

Route Type: Domestic

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