Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

Majestic Wilderness of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, located in Alaska’s vast interior region, is the United States’ largest national park, covering over 13 million acres. Visitors to this spectacular area witness an extraordinary combination of towering mountain ranges, expansive glaciers, and untamed wilderness. Four significant mountain ranges meet here: the Wrangell, St. Elias, Chugach, and Alaska ranges, with Mount St. Elias standing impressively at 18,008 feet, making it North America’s second-highest peak. The geological diversity is staggering, with some of the world’s largest glaciers, including the impressive Root Glacier, carving through the landscape.

This park offers not just dramatic natural features, but also rich history. Remains of early 20th-century copper mining towns like Kennicott provide a glimpse into the area’s past, drawing visitors interested in both nature and heritage. Wildflowers like fireweed bloom spectacularly during summer, adding vibrant color among the rugged terrain. Wildlife sightings are common—bears, moose, and mountain goats are among those calling the park home.

The remote setting means this outdoor haven is a destination for travelers ready to venture off the beaten path. Roads such as the challenging McCarthy Road test visitors with bumpy adventures rewarded by stunning views and friendly small-town hospitality in places like McCarthy. With its massive scale, pristine environment, and blend of geology and history, Wrangell-St. Elias offers an unparalleled Alaskan experience that few other parks can match.

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Adventure Guide to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

1. Mountaineering on Mount St. Elias

• What Makes It Special: North America’s second tallest peak at 18,008 feet, featuring towering glaciers and difficult climbing routes.
• Key Features: Challenging climbs surrounded by dramatic glacial landscapes.
• Local Insights: Severe and unpredictable weather means only experienced mountaineers attempt the summit. The accomplishment of reaching the peak is highly regarded.
• Visitor Tips:
  • Best season is June to August.
  • Bring full mountaineering gear, warm layered clothing, and a satellite phone.
  • Access the park via a drive from Anchorage to McCarthy followed by a bush plane.

2. Hiking the Root Glacier Trail

• What Makes It Special: Stunning views of thick blue ice and glacier formations unique to the area.
• Key Features: Medium difficulty trail starting from Kennicott with options for guided glacier walks.
• Local Insights: Guided tours improve safety and offer educational insight on glaciers.
• Visitor Tips:
  • Ideal from late spring through early fall.
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots and crampons; carry a camera.
  • Reach the trailhead via the rough but scenic McCarthy Road (7–8 hours from Anchorage).

3. Rafting the Copper River

• What Makes It Special: Class II–III rapids wind through Alaska’s wild backcountry, offering solitude and wildlife viewing.
• Key Features: Pristine, cold waters providing exciting rafting combined with chance encounters with local fauna.
• Local Insights: The river is often considered the heart of the park’s adventure water routes.
• Visitor Tips:
  • Visit during late spring to summer for best conditions.
  • Bring waterproof clothing, life vests, and camping gear for multi-day trips.
  • Start rafting near Chitina, about a 5–6 hour drive from Anchorage.

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Getting There: Wrangell-St. Elias is accessible by road from Anchorage, with McCarthy Road leading deep into the park. The drive takes roughly 7–8 hours over challenging terrain, so prepare accordingly. Many visitors combine driving with small aircraft to reach remote access points.

Best Time to Visit: June to September offers the most favorable weather, open trails, and wildlife activity.

What to Bring: Outdoor gear suited to rugged terrain and changing weather, including hiking boots, layered clothing, maps, and safety equipment.

Whether climbing glaciers, hiking ancient ice flows, or rafting wild rivers, Wrangell-St. Elias delivers grand outdoor experiences combined with unmatched natural beauty and authentic Alaskan charm.