Kobuk is the smallest village in the
Northwest Arctic Borough. It is located on the bank of the
Koyukuk River, 7 miles northeast of Shungnak.
Kobuk was founded in 1899 as a supply point for mining activities in the north. A trading post, school, and mission drew residents to the settlement. Ice jams on the river cause high water each year. In May 1973, a flood covered the entire village.
The economy of Kobuk is based on subsistence hunting for caribou and moose. There are many trails along the river for year-round inter-village travel.