Glacier Adventures with St. Elias Alpine Guides in McCarthy, AK

St. Elias Alpine Guides anchors outdoor adventure deep in the rugged wilderness surrounding McCarthy, Alaska, a gateway town to the vast Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. This remote region, known for towering peaks, sprawling glaciers, and wild rivers, offers a playground for adventurous souls seeking immersive glacier hikes, ice climbing, packrafting, and multi-day backcountry treks. SEAG’s base here is not just a launchpad but a treasure trove of knowledge and expertise in some of Alaska’s most challenging and jaw-dropping terrain.

The company specializes in a range of trips from approachable half-day glacier hikes to intense multi-day expeditions, including classic ascents like Mt. Sanford and Mt. Bona. One of their standout offerings is the Root Glacier Overnight Adventure, which pairs a glacier traverse with camping on ice, delivering front-row access to ice caves and seracs. For those drawn to vertical challenges, dedicated ice climbing camps and day trips provide safe guided introductions with skilled coaches ensuring every step of crampon placement and rope work is covered.

Packrafting adventures on the Tebay and Nizina Rivers connect remote lake basins and tundra ranges, while guided fly-in hikes open up less accessible spots like Fan Glacier and Wrangell Plateau to energetic hikers. Beyond the physical activities, guides share deep historical knowledge about the Kennecott Copper Mill and the mining heritage etched into this landscape, enriching the experience by connecting natural wonders with human stories.

Guests regularly praise the attentive guides like Charlie, Ben, and Landon for their blend of technical skill, local insights, and infectious enthusiasm. Whether you're carving steps into ice or trekking across alpine passes, St. Elias Alpine Guides offers expert stewardship that balances safety, education, and adventure. For travelers ready to step beyond the beaten path into some of Alaska’s wildest country, this outfitter is an essential connection.