Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve: Complete Travel Guide
Overview
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve stands as one of the most remote and pristine wilderness areas in North America. Located in Southeast Fairbanks Census Area in Alaska, this vast protected region encompasses over 13.2 million acres, making it larger than the entire country of Switzerland. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and represents one of the largest concentrations of peaks over 16,000 feet in North America. With its dramatic mountain ranges, extensive glaciers, and abundant wildlife, Wrangell–St. Elias offers an unparalleled adventure for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers seeking authentic wilderness experiences.
Where Is Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve Located?
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve is situated in Southeast Fairbanks Census Area in southeastern Alaska, spanning parts of the Chugach and St. Elias mountain ranges. The park stretches across the border between Alaska and Canada, with portions extending into Yukon Territory. The main park entrance and visitor center are accessible via the Richardson Highway, approximately 145 miles south of Fairbanks and 100 miles east of Anchorage. The nearest significant city is Glennallen, which serves as a gateway community for travelers heading to the park.
The park's remote location means that much of it remains inaccessible by road, with only a few maintained trails and the McCarthy Road providing vehicle access into the park's interior. This isolation preserves the park's pristine character while requiring visitors to plan carefully for their adventures.
Why Visit Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve?
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve represents the ultimate Alaskan wilderness experience. The park offers visitors an opportunity to witness some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth, including Mount St. Elias, the second-highest peak in Canada and the United States. The park's appeal lies in its combination of accessible day hikes, world-class mountaineering opportunities, exceptional wildlife viewing, and some of the most spectacular scenery in Alaska.
For adventure seekers, the park provides unmatched opportunities for backcountry exploration, mountaineering expeditions, and wilderness camping. For casual visitors, several accessible trails and scenic drives offer rewarding experiences without requiring extreme technical skills. The park's relative remoteness means fewer crowds compared to other national parks, allowing visitors to experience genuine solitude and authentic wilderness.
What Makes Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve Special?
Several factors distinguish Wrangell–St. Elias as a truly exceptional destination:
Glacial Landscapes: The park contains the largest subpolar ice field in North America—the Bagley Icefield—along with numerous accessible glaciers including the famous Worthington Glacier. These ice formations create otherworldly landscapes that seem frozen in time.
Mountain Majesty: The convergence of three mountain ranges—the Wrangell, St. Elias, and Chugach—creates a dramatic backdrop with numerous peaks exceeding 16,000 feet. Mount Blackburn, Mount Sanford, and Mount Wrangell dominate the skyline.
Wildlife Abundance: The park protects critical habitat for Dall sheep, moose, caribou, grizzly bears, and numerous bird species. Wildlife viewing opportunities rival any national park in Alaska.
Pristine Wilderness: The park remains largely undeveloped and roadless, preserving a landscape that has changed little since the gold rush era. This pristine character attracts visitors seeking authentic wilderness experiences.
Historic Significance: The park contains remnants of the Copper River and Northwestern Railway and the historic mining town of McCarthy, offering glimpses into Alaska's gold rush heritage.
Best Things to Do
1. Hike to Worthington Glacier
The Worthington Glacier Trail offers one of the most accessible glacier experiences in the park. This moderate 2-mile round-trip hike leads from the Richardson Highway to the glacier's terminus, providing stunning views of the ice field and surrounding peaks. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for visitors of varying fitness levels. The glacier's blue ice and dramatic setting create exceptional photography opportunities.
2. Drive the McCarthy Road
The 60-mile McCarthy Road is a legendary Alaskan adventure, featuring a narrow gravel road that descends 2,600 feet into the Copper River Valley. The drive typically takes 4-5 hours each way and passes through spectacular scenery, crossing numerous streams and offering views of Kuskulana Glacier. The road ends at the Copper River, where visitors take a hand-tram across the water to reach McCarthy. This journey itself is an unforgettable experience.
3. Explore the Historic Town of McCarthy
Once a thriving mining hub during the Copper River gold rush, McCarthy now serves as a gateway community to the park's eastern section. The town retains historic buildings and offers a glimpse into Alaska's mining heritage. Visitors can explore the historic structures, learn about the region's history, and use McCarthy as a base for exploring nearby attractions like the Kuskulana Bridge and Gilahina Trestle.
4. Visit Kuskulana Glacier and Bridge
The Kuskulana Glacier overlook and historic Kuskulana Bridge provide spectacular viewpoints accessible from McCarthy. The bridge, built in 1910, spans a dramatic canyon and offers thrilling views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. The short walk to these viewpoints rewards visitors with some of the park's most photogenic landscapes.
5. Backcountry Hiking and Wilderness Trekking
For experienced hikers, the park offers exceptional backcountry opportunities. Routes like the Nabesna Road offer access to remote hiking trails, while experienced mountaineers can attempt peaks throughout the park. The Bremner Glacier area and the Bagley Icefield region provide challenging but rewarding wilderness experiences for properly equipped and experienced adventurers.
6. Wildlife Viewing
The park's diverse habitats support abundant wildlife populations. Dall sheep viewing is excellent in the higher elevations, particularly along the Nabesna Road. Moose inhabit the lower valleys and river corridors, while caribou migrate through the park seasonally. Grizzly bears, though present, are less commonly seen. Bird watching enthusiasts can observe golden eagles, ptarmigan, and numerous waterfowl species.
7. Flightseeing Tours
Due to the park's vast size and remote terrain, flightseeing tours offer an excellent way to experience landscapes inaccessible by vehicle. Scenic flights depart from nearby communities and provide aerial views of glaciers, peaks, and wildlife habitat. These tours often include glacier landings, allowing visitors to walk on ice fields and experience the scale of the landscape from ground level.
8. Fishing and River Exploration
The park's rivers and streams offer excellent fishing opportunities for visitors with appropriate licenses. The Copper River and its tributaries support salmon and trout populations. Experienced paddlers can explore river corridors, though these activities require proper equipment, permits, and wilderness skills.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal time to visit Wrangell–St. Elias depends on your planned activities and preferences.
Summer (June to August): Summer offers the best weather and longest daylight hours, with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C). All park facilities and trails are accessible during this season. The midnight sun provides extended opportunities for hiking and photography. However, this is also peak tourist season, meaning more crowds at accessible areas.
Late Spring (May to Early June): Spring offers excellent conditions for wildlife viewing as animals emerge from winter dormancy. Fewer visitors crowd the trails, and wildflowers begin blooming. However, some snow may remain at higher elevations, and certain trails might still be snow-covered.
Early Fall (September): September provides excellent hiking conditions with crisp air, fewer insects, and continued wildlife activity. Fall colors begin appearing in the vegetation. Weather becomes increasingly unpredictable, but the risk of snow at lower elevations remains relatively low.
Winter (October to April): Winter transforms the park into a frozen landscape, with temperatures dropping to -20°F (-29°C) or lower. Most facilities close, and access becomes extremely limited. However, winter offers unique opportunities for experienced mountaineers and backcountry skiers seeking solitude and pristine snow conditions.
How to Get There
Accessing the Park
By Air: The nearest major commercial airport is Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, located approximately 250 miles southwest of the park. From Anchorage, visitors can rent vehicles or arrange charter flights to smaller airports closer to the park.
By Vehicle: The Richardson Highway provides the primary vehicle access to the park's western section. From Anchorage, drive north on the Richardson Highway for approximately 4-5 hours to reach the park's main entrance and visitor center near Copper Center. This route passes through scenic mountain terrain and offers numerous scenic pullouts.
The McCarthy Road: For access to the park's eastern section and the historic town of McCarthy, take the McCarthy Road from the Richardson Highway near Glennallen. This 60-mile gravel road is open seasonally (typically May through October) and requires careful driving.
Flightseeing and Charter Services: Several companies offer flightseeing tours and charter flights from nearby communities like Glennallen, Anchorage, and McCarthy, providing access to remote areas of the park.
Suggested 1-Day Itinerary
Morning: Begin your day early by visiting the Wrangell–St. Elias National Park Visitor Center near Copper Center. Spend 1-2 hours learning about the park's geology, wildlife, and history through exhibits and ranger presentations.
Late Morning to Afternoon: Drive to Worthington Glacier and complete the 2-mile round-trip hike to the glacier terminus. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it at the viewpoint while taking in the scenery. Allow 3-4 hours for the drive, hike, and rest stops.
Late Afternoon: Return to the Richardson Highway and stop at scenic pullouts along the route back to your accommodation. Consider visiting the Tangle Lakes area if time permits, offering beautiful alpine scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Evening: Return to Glennallen or your chosen accommodation, stopping for dinner at a local restaurant to experience regional cuisine and hospitality.
Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Follow the 1-day itinerary outlined above, completing the Worthington Glacier hike and visitor center visit.
Day 2 - Morning: Depart early for the McCarthy Road adventure. Allow 4-5 hours for the drive to the Copper River, taking breaks at scenic overlooks and the Kuskulana Bridge viewpoint. Pack snacks and water for the journey.
Day 2 - Afternoon: Cross the Copper River via the hand-tram and explore McCarthy. Tour historic buildings, visit local shops, and enjoy lunch at one of McCarthy's small restaurants. Explore the nearby Kuskulana Glacier overlook and historic mining structures.
Day 2 - Evening: Return via the McCarthy Road to your accommodation (or stay overnight in McCarthy if facilities are available), arriving at your base late evening.
Where to Stay
Accommodation Areas
Glennallen: This small community serves as the primary gateway to the park's eastern section. Glennallen offers basic hotel accommodations, RV parks, and camping facilities. Most visitors base themselves here when exploring the McCarthy Road and eastern park areas.
Copper Center Area: Near the park's main visitor center, Copper Center offers limited lodging options and serves visitors exploring the western park section and Worthington Glacier.
McCarthy: The historic mining town offers unique lodging experiences in renovated historic buildings and small inns. Staying in McCarthy allows for extended exploration of the park's eastern section without the McCarthy Road drive each day.
Backcountry Camping: Visitors planning extended wilderness trips can camp throughout the park's backcountry with proper permits. The park offers no developed campgrounds, but dispersed camping is permitted in designated areas.
Nearby Anchorage: Visitors preferring more amenities can base themselves in Anchorage, approximately 250 miles away, making day trips or multi-day excursions to the park. Anchorage offers numerous hotels, restaurants, and services.
Food and Local Experiences
Dining Options
Food options near the park are limited, with most communities offering basic restaurants and general stores. Glennallen has several small restaurants serving regional cuisine. McCarthy offers a few dining establishments with hearty Alaskan fare. Visitors planning backcountry trips should bring adequate supplies, as resupply opportunities are extremely limited.
Local Experiences
Mining Heritage: Explore the park's gold rush history by visiting McCarthy's historic structures and learning about the Copper River and Northwestern Railway that once connected the region to the outside world.
Local Guides: Several outfitters and guide services offer interpretive tours, wildlife viewing expeditions, and mountaineering expeditions led by experienced local guides with deep knowledge of the park.
Indigenous Culture: Learn about the Athabascan and Tlingit peoples who have inhabited this region for thousands of years. Local communities and visitor centers provide information about indigenous history and culture.
Seasonal Events: Visit during local festivals and events, such as community gatherings in nearby towns, to experience Alaskan hospitality and culture.
Safety Tips
Wildlife Safety: Store all food and scented items in bear-proof containers or vehicles. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife, particularly during feeding or denning season.
Weather Preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and be prepared for sudden temperature drops. Check weather forecasts before venturing into remote areas.
Backcountry Navigation: Carry detailed topographic maps, a compass, and GPS device. Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time. Consider hiring experienced guides for challenging backcountry trips.
Road Conditions: The McCarthy Road is narrow, rough, and can be hazardous during poor weather. Drive carefully, reduce speed on gravel sections, and watch for other vehicles. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before attempting this drive.
Water Safety: Rivers and streams can be cold and fast-flowing. Exercise caution near water bodies, and avoid crossing rivers without proper equipment and experience.
Permits and Regulations: Obtain necessary permits for backcountry camping and fishing. Follow all park regulations regarding wildlife viewing, camping, and resource protection.
Communication: Cell phone service is unreliable throughout the park. Consider satellite communication devices for extended backcountry trips.
Nearby Attractions
Copper River: The scenic Copper River offers fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Several pullouts along the Richardson Highway provide river access and viewpoints.
Tangle Lakes: Located along the Richardson Highway, Tangle Lakes offers scenic alpine terrain, hiking trails, and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly for caribou and Dall sheep.
Nabesna Road: This scenic drive extends into the park's northern section, offering access to remote hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and spectacular mountain scenery.
Denali National Park: Located approximately 350 miles northwest, Denali offers additional opportunities to experience Alaskan wilderness, wildlife viewing, and mountain scenery.
Chugach National Forest: Adjacent to the park, Chugach National Forest offers additional hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Photography Tips
Golden Hour Light: Photograph during early morning and late evening hours when light is warm and shadows are dramatic. The long summer days provide extended golden hour opportunities.
Glacier Photography: Capture the brilliant blue ice of glaciers by photographing during midday when light is bright and colors are most vivid. Include foreground elements for compositional depth.
Wildlife Photography: Use telephoto lenses to photograph wildlife from safe distances. Early morning and late evening offer the best wildlife activity and lighting conditions.
Mountain Landscapes: Compose mountain shots to include foreground elements, creating depth and scale. Polarizing filters reduce glare and enhance sky colors.
Weather Drama: Photograph dramatic weather patterns, including storm clouds, fog, and atmospheric conditions that add mood and drama to images.
Glacier Dynamics: Capture the scale of glaciers by including human subjects or landscape features for scale reference. Photograph from multiple angles to convey the glacier's magnitude.
Is Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve represents one of North America's greatest wilderness treasures. The park offers unparalleled opportunities to experience pristine mountain landscapes, abundant wildlife, and authentic Alaskan wilderness. Whether you're a casual visitor completing a day hike to Worthington Glacier or an experienced mountaineer attempting one of the park's challenging peaks, the park delivers unforgettable experiences.
The park's remoteness ensures relatively few crowds, allowing visitors genuine solitude and connection with nature. The combination of accessible attractions and challenging backcountry opportunities makes the park appealing to visitors of varying experience levels. For anyone seeking authentic wilderness adventure in Alaska, Wrangell–St. Elias is absolutely worth visiting.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Wrangell–St. Elias National Park? A: Summer (June to August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours, making it ideal for most visitors. However, late May through early June and September offer excellent conditions with fewer crowds and good weather.
Q: How do I get to McCarthy from the Richardson Highway? A: Drive the 60-mile McCarthy Road, a narrow gravel road that takes 4-5 hours to reach the Copper River. Cross the river via hand-tram to reach McCarthy. The road is open seasonally, typically May through October.
Q: Are there developed campgrounds in the park? A: No, the park has no developed campgrounds. Visitors can camp in the backcountry with permits or stay in nearby communities like Glennallen or McCarthy.
Q: Can I see glaciers in the park? A: Yes, Worthington Glacier is easily accessible via a short hike from the Richardson Highway. Numerous other glaciers are visible from the McCarthy Road and throughout the park's backcountry.
Q: What wildlife might I see? A: The park hosts Dall sheep, moose, caribou, grizzly bears, wolves, and numerous bird species. Wildlife viewing is best during early morning and late evening hours.
Q: Do I need permits for backcountry camping? A: Yes, backcountry camping permits are required. Obtain them at the visitor center or through the park's website. Permits are typically free but help the park track visitor use.
Q: Is the McCarthy Road dangerous? A: The McCarthy Road is narrow, rough, and remote. Drive carefully and reduce speed on gravel sections. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition. The road is generally safe when driven cautiously.
Q: What should I pack for a visit? A: Pack layers, waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, bear spray, insect repellent, sun protection, and adequate water and snacks. Bring detailed maps and navigation tools for backcountry exploration.