Minto Flats: A Unique Landscape in Alaska

Located just west of Fairbanks, Minto Flats is a vast oval of wetlands and lowlands that has long been a haven for wildlife and a source of fascination for scientists. Spanning an area larger than Anchorage, this unique landscape is not only a popular spot for local villagers to hunt moose, beavers, and northern pike but also attracts oil and gas developers and seismologists.

Recently, a group of competitors took part in the T-Dog race, crossing the flats from Minto to Fairbanks on foot, bikes, and sleds. As the contestants made their way across the snowy expanse, they were surrounded by the tranquility of the flats, which in a few months will come alive with the sounds of migrating waterfowl.

Scientists have studied Minto Flats for decades, uncovering its unique geological features, including a “gravity low” that causes the basin to sink and amplify the effects of earthquakes. While the flats may seem flat and unassuming, they hold a rich history of geological activity that has shaped the landscape over millions of years.

Despite the potential risks posed by earthquakes in the area, Minto Flats remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a new challenge and a chance to explore a truly unique part of Alaska’s wilderness.

For more information, please contact Ned Rozell at ned.rozell@alaska.edu.