Visiting Wrangell St Elias National Park and McCarthy Alaska

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is a national park and preserve located in the southeastern region of Alaska. It is the largest national park in the United States, covering an area of over 13 million acres. The park is named after Mount Wrangell, the largest active volcano in North America, and St. Elias, the highest peak in the park.

In the summer months, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers a wide variety of activities and sights to see. One of the most popular activities is hiking, with trails ranging from easy to challenging, offering stunning views of the park’s rugged landscape. Visitors can also go fishing in the park’s rivers and streams, which are home to a variety of salmon and trout species.

Glacier Hiking

Another popular activity in the park is backpacking, with designated backpacking trails and campsites available throughout the park. Backpacking allows visitors to explore the park’s more remote areas and get a true wilderness experience.

View of Klutlan Glacier

Visitors can also take part in ranger-led programs, which offer a unique way to learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. These programs are offered at various locations throughout the park and are a great way to learn more about the park and its natural surroundings.

In addition to these activities, visitors can also explore the park’s many historic sites, including the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, which offers a glimpse into the park’s mining history. The park also has several glaciers, including the Root Glacier, which can be explored on guided hikes or ice climbing tours.

Old Kennicott Mines

Where to Stay at Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Accommodations can be found at the Kennicott Glacier Lodge, which is close to the ancient mines and has a view of the Root Glacier, or at the Ma Johnson’s Hotel in McCarthy.

When to Visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

The summer months are the best times to visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, however you may travel there as early as mid-May and as late as mid-September. In the summer, the temperature ranges from 52°F to 68°F (11°C to 20°C). From the end of September, snow is possible.

How to Get to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

The primary transportation hub would be Anchorage International Airport. From there, it takes a 5-hour trip on a paved road to reach Chitinia, from where another 3-hour drive on a rough dirt road to McCarthy. Regional aircraft provide an alternative to fly from Anchorage to Chitina. Any means gives breathtaking views of the Alaskan landscape, with the additional chance of spotting moose if you are driving. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a fantastic complement to any Alaska itinerary thanks to its remote location.

Overall, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers a wide range of activities and sights to see in the summer months. Whether you’re interested in hiking, backpacking, fishing, or learning about the park’s history and wildlife, there’s something for everyone in this stunning national park.

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