Alaska field viewing guide
Caribou migration (the Porcupine herd) in Alaska — where & when to see them by RV
Rangifer tarandus
One of the last great caribou migrations in North America.
3peak months
3prime spots
Natural history
About the Caribou migration
The Porcupine herd migrates over 1,500 miles annually between calving grounds on the Arctic coast and winter ranges in the boreal forests. They move in large groups, crossing rivers and tundra.
Where to look
Conservation status
When to watch
The best months to see the caribou migration
Wildlife runs on a calendar. Here is the window when sightings peak in Alaska — plan your trip around the lit months, then check the local refuge or park report before you go.
Best months
Aug · Sep · Oct
Fall migration typically occurs from August through October; check the official Alaska Department of Fish and Game report for herd location.
Plan the trip
Base your Alaska RV trip
Good to know
Common questions
What is the Porcupine caribou herd?
A population of migratory caribou in northeastern Alaska and northwestern Canada that makes one of the longest land migrations.
When is the best time to see the migration?
Fall (August to October) when herds move south through open tundra, but spring (May-June) can also be impressive.
Make it a trip
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