Perched on the edge of the Bering Sea, Nome offers a rare opportunity to photograph true Arctic wildlife in a landscape that feels vast, raw, and refreshingly uncrowded. September is a particularly compelling time to be here: the tundra shifts into rich fall color, the light softens, and wildlife is active as the season transitions toward winter. With road access radiating into expansive tundra and coastal habitats, we’re able to cover a wide range of environments while staying flexible and responsive to what the wildlife is doing in real time.

The star of the trip is the Musk Ox—one of the most prehistoric-looking mammals in North America and a dream subject for wildlife photographers. These Ice Age survivors roam the tundra in small herds, their massive curved horns and long, shaggy coats creating powerful visual contrast against open landscapes and autumn hues. Musk Ox are known for their calm but imposing presence, often standing their ground rather than fleeing, which allows for extended photographic opportunities focused on behavior, group dynamics, and environmental portraits. September is especially interesting as their coats appear full and textured, adding incredible detail to close and mid-range compositions.

Bird photography is an equally exciting component of this trip, with Nome sitting at a crossroads of Arctic and sub-Arctic species. Ptarmigan are a particular highlight, often encountered on the tundra as they transition toward winter plumage, blending mottled whites, browns, and grays into the fall landscape. Snow Buntings may begin appearing in small flocks, flashing white wings as they move across open ground, while lingering shorebirds and coastal species can still be found along beaches and wetlands. Bald Eagles are frequently seen near the shoreline, offering dynamic flight opportunities and striking juxtapositions against the sea and sky.

What makes photographing wildlife around Nome especially rewarding is the sense of discovery. There are no guarantees and no set scripts—each day unfolds based on scouting, light, weather, and animal movement. This flexibility allows us to slow down, observe behavior, and create images that feel intentional and immersive rather than rushed. Combined with expansive Arctic scenery, dramatic skies, and the quiet magic of the far north in early fall, this trip offers a rare chance to photograph wildlife in one of Alaska’s most compelling and least traveled regions.