Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a force of nature that refuses to be tamed. This vast, untamed wilderness challenges every step you take along its multi-day backpacking routes, where glaciers creep silently, rivers roar like living veins, and mountain peaks stand fiercely themselves. For adventurers seeking an Alaskan journey that balances rugged beauty with achievable challenge, Wrangell-St. Elias offers some of the continent’s most compelling trails.

1. Root Glacier Traverse (10-12 miles, Moderate/Elev. gain ~1,000 ft) This route follows the Root Glacier, where ice caves whisper beneath a soaring expanse of blue-white ice. The trail starts in the forested valley of the Kennicott River, where spruce and fir trees crowd along paths damp with moss and lichen. The glacier dares you forward with its subtle creaks and groans, pushing you toward expansive views of Mount Blackburn. Expect rocky moraines, icy sections, and occasional creek crossings. This trek rewards with close encounters of nature’s raw force, but requires crampons and basic glacier skills.

2. Nabesna Trail to Slana River (30 miles, Challenging/Elev. gain ~3,500 ft) Starting near the Nabesna Road, this longer expedition channels a deep solitude. The forests here seem watchful, branches reaching like arms while rivers stubbornly carve the valley floor. Expect mixed terrain – from soft forest carpets to rugged river boulders – and keep an eye out for moose and grizzly bear tracks. This route calls for strong navigation skills. Campsites along the Slana River offer peaceful respite beneath towering peaks where eagles wheel overhead.

3. Windy Creek to Mount Drum (16 miles, Moderate to Challenging/Elev. gain 2,000 ft) The Windy Creek trail moves through thick woods before breaking into high alpine tundra. Here, the wind has its own voice, bending shrubs and carrying the scent of spruce resin. Mount Drum dominates the horizon, pushing the limits of your climb. Expect loose gravel, rocky ridges, and crystal-clear streams daring you to refill your bottles. This route is a test of endurance and focus, with sharp weather changes that keep you alert.

Preparation Tips Hydration is critical; water sources are plentiful but purify rigorously. Your boots must be waterproof and supportive to handle wet forest soils and unstable scree. Bring layered clothing – the weather shifts quickly and unpredictably. Aim for late June through early September for the most reliable conditions, though be ready for sudden rain or cold.

Wrangell-St. Elias is not a park to rush or conquer. It demands respect, patience, and a willingness to adapt. But for those ready to engage with wilderness that lives on its own terms, the rewards are vast views, quiet moments beside ice-fed streams, and memories etched in stark, stony landscapes. Step in lightly, move steadily, and let this giant wilderness shape your adventure.