Glacier Adventures with St. Elias Alpine Guides in McCarthy, AK
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
Half-day to multi-day trips
Fitness Level
Participants should have good cardiovascular endurance and strength for hiking on uneven glacier ice and handling packrafts or climbing gear.
Overview
Venture into Alaska’s Wrangell mountains with St. Elias Alpine Guides for guided glacier hikes, ice climbing, and wilderness packrafting. Learn what makes these trips unforgettable in one of America’s wildest backcountry regions.
Glacier Adventures with St. Elias Alpine Guides in McCarthy, AK
Adventure Tips
Acclimate to Elevation Gradually
Take it slow on early hikes to adjust to the altitude and cold conditions typical of glacier terrain around McCarthy.
Dress in Layered Technical Clothing
Bring moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outer shells to manage changing weather, especially for ice climbing and glacier camping.
Bring Reference Maps and a GPS
Navigation tools are critical since trail markers can be minimal or obscured by snow and ice in glacier regions.
Hydrate and Snack Frequently
Cold air and physical exertion increase hydration needs; carry water and energy-dense snacks during long glacier hikes or packrafting days.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Dall sheep grazing alpine slopes
- Bears along river corridors
History
McCarthy and Kennecott were once booming copper mining towns; the Kennecott Mill remains a preserved relic showcasing early 20th-century mining life.
Conservation
St. Elias Alpine Guides emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and sustainable travel practices to protect fragile glacier and tundra ecosystems.
Adventure Hotspots in Anchorage
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Crampons and Ice Axes
Necessary for secure footing and safety on icy glacier surfaces and when climbing frozen features.
summer|fall|spring|winter specific
Layered Technical Clothing
Protects against rapidly changing alpine weather with breathable, insulating, and waterproof layers.
all specific
Packraft and Paddle Gear
Enables river travel across remote lakes and rivers like Tebay and Nizina, expanding the range of adventures.
summer specific
Navigation Tools (GPS, Map, Compass)
Ensure you stay on route in remote, minimally marked terrain across glaciers and backcountry trails.
all specific