Where Is the North Pole? See Its Location on a Map and Surrounding Countries

When you think of the North Pole, Santa and Christmas likely come to mind. However, the real environment may not look how it does in your mind. Learn where the North Pole is and see its location on a map by reading more.  

Where is the North Pole Located on the Map  

The North Pole is located in the middle of the Arctic Ocean and isn’t part of any nation. It is the northernmost point on Earth’s axis of rotation. All longitude lines meet at the location, and the North Star, Polaris, sits directly above it without moving. 

How Far Is the North Pole From Other Countries  

Geography

The elevation at this location is sea level and the environment consists of water and pieces of sea ice that constantly shift. Cyclones occur here, and the area experiences ice melt and cracks because of Arctic climate change.  

There is an underwater mountain chain that stretches across the area. This mountain chain is called Lomonosov Ridge and continues from Ellesmere Island, Canada, to the Siberian region of Russia. 

Climate

The warmest time of year at the northernmost point is summer, when the temperature reaches 32 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the freezing point. It only has one yearly sunrise at the March equinox and one sunset at the September equinox. This area also only has 24 hours of sunlight during summer and 24 hours of darkness during winter. 

Does Anyone Live at the North Pole? 

No one lives in the North Pole since it is in the middle of the ocean and consists of water and 6-10 feet thick ice. The water in this location is more than 13,123 feet deep.  

Terrestrial animals don’t typically visit or live at this location either. The shifting ice doesn’t allow for establishing dens for raising young. However, polar bears sometimes travel there looking for food.  

What Is the North Pole Famous For? 

The northernmost point is famous for being the location of Santa’s home and toy workshop. However, it’s also known as a location that explorers aim to reach and scientists continually learn about. Officials in Canada, Denmark, and Russia dispute one another’s claims to ownership of the area, although no one has been successful.