Mount St. Elias Expedition: Alaska’s Ultimate Climbing Challenge
Difficulty
expert
Duration
2–3 weeks
Fitness Level
Participants must be in excellent physical condition with high endurance and strength for multi-day glacier travel and technical climbs.
Overview
Challenge yourself with an unforgettable climb to Mount St. Elias, the second highest peak in North America. Experience Alaska's rugged wilderness on this expert-led expedition.
Mount St. Elias Expedition
Alaska Grade 4 • 3+ Weeks • Guide Referral/Reference Required • Call to Book • All Ages
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an extraordinary mountaineering expedition to Mt. St. Elias, the second highest peak in the U.S. and Canada. Experience the thrill of climbing a rarely ascended summit, surrounded by breathtaking Alaskan wilderness. With expert guides, challenge yourself on this remote and formidable journey that promises unforgettable memories.
The Crown Jewel…
Duration
3+ weeks. Custom dates are available.
About
Mt. St. Elias, at 18,008 ft (5,488m) explodes from the shores of the Pacific Ocean and rises for over three vertical miles. The second highest peak in both the U.S. and Canada, Mt. St. Elias has immense vertical relief, comparable to Denali and peaks in the Himalayas.
Climbed scarcely more than fifty times since the first ascent in 1897, this remote summit offers experienced climbers a world class mountaineering challenge. Arranging to climb this renowned mountain requires previous mountaineering experience and planning. Contact us for more details.
Highlights
- Test yourself on a world-class Alaska mountaineering expedition.
- Remote, challenging climbing in Alaska’s St. Elias Range.
- Achieve your goals with our professional Alaska mountaineering guides.
- Climb the second highest peak in the United States.
Updated Procedures
To keep in accordance with recent Alaska State mandates, we are requiring advanced reservations for all of our activities at this time. Until things change, we will not be able to accommodate walk-in customers without advanced reservations. Book today!
We are recommending that you bring and wear your own mask during your activity with us. Your guide will be wearing a mask too! It is unlikely that masks will be available for purchase in McCarthy so please come prepared.
Stay updated on our response to COVID-19 here
Adventure Tips
Prepare for Rapid Weather Changes
Weather on Mount St. Elias can shift abruptly; always carry layered clothing and waterproof gear.
Acclimatize Before Climbing
Spend a few days in McCarthy or nearby elevations to reduce altitude sickness risks.
Use Glacier Travel Techniques
Know crevasse rescue and glacier navigation or rely on guides skilled in these methods.
Respect Wildlife and Environment
Maintain distance from animals and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the park’s ecosystem.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Dall sheep
- Mountain goats
History
McCarthy and Kennecott were once booming copper mining towns; today they preserve a unique Alaskan heritage connected to the mountains.
Conservation
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park emphasizes sustainable tourism and wildlife habitat preservation to protect this vast natural landscape.
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Adventure Hotspots in Anchorage
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Mountaineering boots
Insulated, crampon-compatible boots provide the necessary support and warmth for glacier travel.
summer specific
Technical ice axe and crampons
Essential tools for climbing icy slopes and controlling descents on glacier terrain.
Layered insulation system
Multiple layers including base, mid, and outer shells help adapt to rapidly changing conditions.
Avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel
Critical safety gear for avalanche rescue in snowfield areas prone to slide risk.
spring specific