What is the best time of year to hike the Chugach Mountain Circuit?

Summer months from June to August offer the best weather and trail conditions, but each season provides unique scenery and experiences.

Is previous hiking experience required?

Yes, the circuit is physically demanding and recommended for experienced hikers comfortable with challenging mountain terrain.

Are guided tours available?

Yes, St. Elias Alpine Guides offers private guided trips tailored to your skill level and interests.

What should I pack for this hike?

Essential items include sturdy waterproof boots, layered clothing, a daypack, water, snacks, and weather-appropriate gear.

Are permits required to hike in this area?

No permits are usually required for private guided hikes in this region, but always check local regulations before your trip.

What wildlife might I see during the hike?

You may spot mountain goats, Dall sheep, and if lucky, sightings of bears or moose in their natural habitat.

Chugach Mountain Circuit | Hiking in McCarthy, Alaska

Embark on the Chugach Mountain Circuit with St. Elias Alpine Guides for an unforgettable hiking adventure in Alaska. This private trek offers a perfect blend of rugged wilderness, stunning vistas, and immersive mountain scenery. As you traverse the challenging terrain, you'll encounter pristine glaciers, expansive alpine meadows, and dramatic mountain peaks that create a photographer's paradise. The circuit provides a rewarding experience for seasoned hikers seeking solitude and untouched natural beauty. Guides will share insights into the area's rich geology and local wildlife, enhancing your understanding of this remote landscape. Whether you're summiting panoramic viewpoints or relaxing by mountain streams, each moment promises a sense of adventure and awe. The trip suits those looking to push their limits while enjoying the serene majesty of Alaska’s wilderness. Prepare for an active day of exploration surrounded by the wild sounds of nature, making it a truly immersive outdoor experience.

About St. Elias Alpine Guides

St. Elias Alpine Guides is a guiding company based in McCarthy, Alaska, offering guided adventures throughout Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and surrounding wilderness. The company leads a range of trips including packrafting, multi-day rafting, glacier hiking, ice climbing, fly-in hiking, and private basecamp expeditions. Popular itineraries include Doubtful–Nizina Packrafting, Tebay Lakes Basecamp Packrafting, Chitina River trips, Western Copper River rafting, Raft and Flightsee, Full-Day Glacier Hike on Root Glacier, Skolai Pass fly-in hiking, Bremner Mine basecamp hiking, and multi-day Ice Climbing and Ice Climbing Camp programs.

Trips are available as scheduled group departures or fully private, customizable experiences with options for day trips and multi-day expeditions. Many itineraries accommodate families and groups; for example, Chitina River trips welcome guests ages eight and up and Western Copper River trips can include children as young as three. Several trips conclude with scenic bush plane flights or operate from remote fly-in access points.

St. Elias Alpine Guides emphasizes small-group guiding, route planning, and trip customization to match client skill levels and objectives. Guides provide logistics, gear guidance, and route choices appropriate to each itinerary. Booking information lists fixed departures for some trips and private-date options for others, with clear descriptions of duration and difficulty. The company’s offerings focus on authentic wilderness experiences in McCarthy, Root Glacier, Tebay Lakes, the Copper River corridor, and surrounding Alaskan river systems.

Clients can select multi-day basecamps, day hikes, guided ice-climbing instruction, or combined raft-and-flightsee itineraries to tailor pace, challenges, and family needs. Booking details and gear lists.