Mt. Bona Expedition: Epic Climbing in Alaska's Wrangells
Difficulty
expert
Duration
13 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in excellent physical condition with strong endurance and strength for high-altitude alpine terrain.
Overview
Embark on a 13-day climbing expedition across Alaska’s Wrangell Mountains. Experience technical alpine challenges and vast wilderness with St. Elias Alpine Guides on this unforgettable Mt. Bona adventure.
Details
The Mt. Bona Expedition is a 13-day climbing adventure that takes you deep into Alaska's Wrangell Mountains near McCarthy. Led by St. Elias Alpine Guides, this trip offers an intense experience of 10 days spent in remote backcountry, surrounded by towering peaks, glaciers, and pristine wilderness. Climbers face a demanding expedition with technical ice and snow routes that challenge both skill and endurance, making it perfect for expert mountaineers seeking a true big-mountain experience. Beyond the physical climb, participants will enjoy breathtaking scenery, long days on the ice, and the camaraderie built from tackling a shared goal in an untamed environment. The journey’s remoteness provides a rare opportunity to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the raw power of Alaska’s alpine landscape. Whether you're embarking solo or with a group, this expedition pushes your limits and rewards you with memories of an unparalleled climbing feat.
Adventure Tips
Prepare for Glacier Travel
Bring crampons and ice axes and practice roped glacier travel techniques before your trip.
Acclimate Beforehand
Spend time acclimating to altitude to reduce the risk of altitude sickness on Mt. Bona.
Pack Layered Clothing
The weather can shift quickly; dress in layers to stay warm and dry in cold, wet conditions.
Plan for Limited Connectivity
Expect no cell service in the backcountry; inform someone of your itinerary before departure.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Kennicott Ghost Town ruins
- The Chitina River valley
Wildlife
- Mountain goats
- Dall sheep
History
Mt. Bona is part of the Wrangell Mountains, named after the Russian explorer Ferdinand von Wrangel.
Conservation
The area is protected within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, promoting sustainable tourism and wilderness preservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Summit ridge of Mt. Bona
- Kennicott Glacier overlook
- Base camp at the foot of the mountain
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Mountaineering boots
Sturdy boots with crampon compatibility are crucial for glacier and ice travel.
summer specific
Technical ice axe
Required for climbing steep snow and ice and for self-arrest during falls.
Layered moisture-wicking clothing
Essential for regulating body temperature in variable weather conditions.
High-quality insulated sleeping bag
Necessary for warmth during cold nights on the mountain.