Hiking near McCarthy offers a rugged gateway into the vast and fiercely independent wilderness of Alaska’s Wrangell Mountains. Just beyond this historic town, trails carve through dense spruce forests, skirt crystal-clear rivers that dare you to cross, and climb toward alpine ridges where views stretch over glaciers and jagged peaks. Whether you’re tackling the easy paths that wind beside Kennecott River or preparing for the challenging ascent above the townsite, McCarthy’s hiking options serve up adventure balanced with clear logistics for any skill level.

Start with the Root Glacier trail, a 3.5-mile round trip with a modest 300-foot elevation gain. The terrain is a mix of gravel and wooden boardwalks designed to navigate melting permafrost and patchy wetlands. Keep your boots dry, as streams cross frequently. This trail brings you face-to-face with the massive Root Glacier—a dynamic, shifting ice river that pushes its age-old slow march onward. Hiking here should come with sturdy footwear, layered clothing for unpredictable mountain weather, and plenty of water.

For experienced hikers seeking more commitment, the High Route offers up to 8 miles with steeper climbs and loose rock sections. The trail rewards you with panoramic views of the Wrangell St. Elias peaks, including Mount Blackburn. The air presses cooler at higher altitudes, and the trail demands your full attention—technical skills such as route finding and safe river crossing technique are recommended.

Hiking near McCarthy rewards preparation and respect for a wild, living landscape. Plan for weather shifts, carry navigation tools, and prepare to encounter local wildlife including shy Dall sheep and curious ravens. Many trails remain open from late spring through early fall, inviting hikers to engage with a wilderness fiercely itself. This is not a path to conquer but one to understand, one step at a time.