12 Must-See Attractions: Things To Do In Wrangell St. Elias

Wrangell St. Elias is a remarkable destination that every adventurer must see. This vast park offers an exceptional blend of wilderness and culture that lures travelers to the area. Its incredible glaciers, towering mountains, and pristine rivers offer visitors unparalleled opportunities to explore the great outdoors. There is something captivating about this place, and it's easy to see why people keep coming back. For anyone planning a trip to Wrangell St. Elias, we have compiled a list of twelve must-see attractions that will make your trip unforgettable. So, fasten your seatbelts, grab your camera and let's explore the best Things to Do in Wrangell St. Elias.

Kennicott Mines

The Kennicott Mines located in Wrangell St. Elias National Park is a historic landmark that reflects the rich mining history of Alaska. The mines are a testament to the perseverance and resilience of the early miners who braved the harsh Alaskan wilderness in search of fortune.

The Kennicott Mines were established in 1906 by Jafet Lindeberg, a Swedish immigrant who discovered high-grade copper ore in the hills that overlooked the Kennicott Glacier. The discovery was significant, and it soon sparked a gold rush in the area, attracting many prospectors from across the world.

The mines became a busy town, with a population of several hundred people, including miners, their families, and support staff. The town had schools, a hospital, a store, and even a tennis court. However, the mines were only open for a brief period, from 1909 to 1938, when they were abandoned due to declining copper prices and the outbreak of World War II.

Today, the Kennicott Mines are a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can take a guided tour of the historic structures, including the mine shafts, the power plants, the bunkhouses, and the ore processing mills. Visitors can also take a hike up the hill to the abandoned mill and watchtower to enjoy stunning views of the glacier, river, and mountains.

The National Park Service has worked to preserve the Kennicott Mines and has stabilized many of the historic structures. Visitors can learn more about the history of the mines and the lives of the people who worked and lived there by visiting the nearby visitor center and museum.

The Kennicott Mines are not only significant for their historic value but also for their natural beauty. The mines are located in the heart of Wrangell St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States, and offer visitors a chance to experience the park's rugged wilderness. The park is home to several glaciers, mountains, and river valleys, and visitors can enjoy hiking, backcountry camping, and other outdoor activities.

In conclusion, the Kennicott Mines are a remarkable example of Alaska's mining history and a testament to the strength and resilience of the early miners. The mines and their surrounding park offer a unique and exciting experience for visitors who want to learn about the past while enjoying the beauty of Alaska's wilderness. Anyone visiting the Wrangell St. Elias National Park must make a point of visiting this remarkable historical landmark.

McCarthy

Characteristic	Description
Name	Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve
Type	National park in Alaska
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 787
Address	Alaska
Phone	(907) 822-7250
Profiles

Originally a mining town during the Copper Rush in the early 1900s, McCarthy has undergone a dramatic transformation over the years. Today, it is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and history buffs wanting to explore the beauty and wildness of the Wrangell Mountains.

One of the biggest attractions in McCarthy is the Kennicott Mine, a National Historic Landmark that was once one of the world's largest copper mines. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine, explore the surrounding buildings, and learn about the history of mining in the area.

For those looking for adventure, the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is a playground for outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, rafting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Within the park and surrounding areas, there are plenty of opportunities to see grizzly bears, Dall sheep, caribou, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

But despite its remoteness, McCarthy is not entirely cut off from the outside world. The town has a small but vibrant community, with a handful of restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors can stay in cozy cabins or campgrounds and enjoy locally sourced food and drink.

Although McCarthy is not easily accessible – visitors must drive or fly into the nearby airstrip – those willing to make the journey are rewarded with a unique and unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful and rugged regions of Alaska.

Root Glacier

The Root Glacier is a part of the huge ice sheet that covers the Saint Elias Mountains, and it is one of the easiest glaciers to access within the park as well. It rises from the low valley of Kennicott to the east, flowing into the valley's main drainage system, the Kennicott Glacier. The glacier is known for its striking appearance, with a deep blue color that reflects the light of the sun.

The area surrounding Root Glacier is also home to several species of wildlife like grizzly bears, wolves, and mountain goats. The proximity of these animals makes it necessary for visitors to take necessary precautions while exploring the area. Although grizzly bears are prevalent in the area, they are not aggressive and will usually avoid human contact.

In addition to hiking, visitors can also engage in activities like ice climbing, ice skating, and snowmobiling while at Root Glacier. There are guided tours available for these activities. However, visitors need to be prepared and should come with proper gear to ensure their safety.

Overall, Root Glacier is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Alaska. The stunning views, the adventure, and the wildlife, all make for an unforgettable experience. If you plan to visit Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska, do not miss the opportunity to explore the natural splendor of the Root Glacier.

Wrangell Mountains

The Wrangell Mountains are a range located in Alaska and a part of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. These mountains are a sight to behold, with vast glaciers, towering peaks, and wild, pristine rivers.

The Wrangell Mountains are arguably one of the most spectacular wilderness areas in the United States. They are a true natural treasure, containing some of the largest glaciers in North America. This region is also home to four of Alaska's tallest peaks, including Mount Blackburn, which stands at over 16,000 feet.

The Wrangell Mountains are a great place to experience the beauty of nature. This range is part of the largest protected wilderness area in the United States, affording visitors the opportunity to explore a pristine natural landscape that has remained largely untouched by modern development. The rugged terrain, alpine meadows, and icy peaks make for a spectacular backdrop for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

The Wrangell Mountains are also home to an abundance of wildlife. Grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep are a common sight in the park. The rivers are teeming with salmon, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Visitors to the Wrangell Mountains have various options for exploring this wonderful region. Some choose to hike, while others opt for backcountry camping trips. There are also several guided tours available, which allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the region with local expert guides.

In conclusion, the Wrangell Mountains are an awe-inspiring natural wonder. They are a perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and adventurers seeking a beautiful, rugged, and pristine wilderness to explore. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the Wrangell Mountains are sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Nabesna Road

Characteristic	Description
Name	Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve
Type	National park in Alaska
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 787
Address	Alaska
Phone	(907) 822-7250
Profiles

Wrangell St Elias is a national park located in Alaska, USA. It is the largest national park in the United States, covering an area of over 13 million acres. The park is filled with glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, and attracts nature enthusiasts from all over the world. One of the highlights of the park is the Nabesna Road, which offers a unique way to explore the park.

The Nabesna Road is a 42-mile gravel road that runs through the northern section of the park. It begins at the small town of Nabesna and ends at the historic mining town of Chisana. The road is unpaved, and visitors are advised to proceed with caution and respect the wilderness environment.

One of the main attractions of the Nabesna Road is the opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Visitors may catch sight of caribou, moose, grizzly bears, and wolves. The road also offers access to numerous hiking trails, which allow visitors to explore the park on foot. Some of the trails include the Nabesna Glacier Trail, the Walker Fork Trail, and the Chisana Trail. These trails provide hikers with the opportunity to see some of the park's most stunning scenery, including glaciers, lakes, and mountain ranges.

Another attraction along the Nabesna Road is the history of the area. The road passes through several historic mining towns, including Chisana and Nabesna. Many of these towns date back to the late 1800s, when gold-rush fever hit Alaska. Visitors can explore the abandoned mines, learn about the early settlers, and get a sense of what life was like in the wilderness.

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, the Nabesna Road is also an excellent place for stargazing. The park is far from any major cities or light pollution, which makes it an ideal spot to observe the stars. Visitors are advised to bring binoculars or a telescope for the best views.

Overall, the Nabesna Road is an excellent way to explore Wrangell St Elias National Park. It offers a unique perspective on the park's scenery, wildlife, and history. Visitors should plan appropriately for the rugged terrain and changing weather, but with a bit of preparation, they can experience the wilderness of Alaska in all its glory.

Kuskulana Bridge

Spanning 525 feet, the Kuskulana Bridge, located in Wrangell St. Elias National Park, is a marvel of human engineering that has become a beloved landmark in this rugged wilderness. The bridge is also known for its historical significance since it was built in 1910 during the Klondike Gold Rush, connecting the mining communities of Silver City to the rest of Alaska. Today, it attracts tourists from all over the world who come to admire its beauty and learn about its rich history.

One of the unique features of the bridge is that it was built using a technique called cantilever construction. The cantilever design allowed the bridge to be built without the need for a center support column, making it the longest cantilever bridge in the world at the time of its completion.

The Kuskulana Bridge was an engineering feat that put Alaska on the map in the early 1900s. It was built to accommodate the heavy loads of equipment used in the mining industry and to provide a safe and reliable mode of transportation for the miners who lived in the remote areas surrounding Wrangell St. Elias.

The construction of the Kuskulana Bridge was not without challenges. The location of the bridge, situated in a deep and narrow canyon with steep cliffs on either side, made it difficult for construction crews to access the site. Workers faced harsh weather conditions, including freezing temperatures and snowfall which made it tough for the workers to work. Additionally, They had to overcome engineering challenges, such as designing the bridge to withstand the strong currents of the Kuskulana River flowing beneath it.

Despite these obstacles, the Kuskulana Bridge was completed within a year, and it quickly became an essential part of the mining industry. However, by the 1950s the mining industry in the area declined and the bridge was no longer needed to transport heavy equipment across the Kuskulana River. In the late 1960s, the bridge was declared a National Historic Landmark.

Today, visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the rushing waters of the Kuskulana River while walking across the bridge. The Kuskulana Bridge is an iconic symbol of the spirit of human enterprise, ingenuity, and perseverance. It stands as a testament to the people who built it and to the importance of infrastructure in shaping the history of Wrangell St. Elias National Park and the Alaskan wilderness.

St. Elias Alpine Guides

The Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in America with over 13 million acres of pure wilderness. It is a rugged and remote wilderness that features towering peaks, vast glaciers, and pristine valleys. St. Elias Alpine Guides operates in this magnificent natural wonderland and offers guided climbing expeditions, backpacking trips, and wildlife viewing tours.

The guided climbing expeditions offered by St. Elias Alpine Guides vary in difficulty, from introductory courses for beginners to advanced mountaineering expeditions for experienced climbers. The mountaineering expeditions are led by experienced and certified guides who take visitors through the most remote and beautiful summits in the Wrangell-St. Elias Mountains. The guides are passionate about their work, and their expertise is unparalleled, ensuring a safe and unforgettable mountaineering experience.

The wildlife viewing tours offered by St. Elias Alpine Guides give visitors the opportunity to see some of the magnificent wildlife that inhabit the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Visitors can witness grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep in their natural habitat. The tours are guided by experienced and knowledgeable naturalists who provide insights into the behavior and ecology of the park's wildlife.

In conclusion, St. Elias Alpine Guides offers an extraordinary wilderness experience in one of America's most spectacular national parks. Be it mountaineering, backpacking, or wildlife viewing, the company has something for every visitor. With the experienced and certified guides, equipment, and transportation provided, visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.

McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum

The McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve. Located in the historic town of Kennicott, the museum provides visitors with a chance to learn about the region's rich mining, transportation, and cultural past.

The museum is housed in the former National Park Service Administrative Building, which was constructed in 1928 to serve as the headquarters for the Chugach National Forest. The building has been meticulously restored, and visitors can explore its many rooms and hallways to get a sense of what life was like during the early days of the park.

One of the museum's main attractions is its collection of artifacts from the copper-mining heyday of Kennicott. Visitors can see original mining equipment, including a giant air compressor, as well as historic photographs and documents that shed light on the challenges faced by the miners who toiled in the deep mine shafts.

The museum also offers exhibits on the region's transportation history, including displays on dog mushing, snowmobiles, and airplanes. These exhibits highlight the unique challenges of travel in the remote Alaskan wilderness, and they illustrate how different modes of transportation have shaped the area's development.

Another key theme of the museum is the cultural history of the area's indigenous people. Visitors can learn about the traditions and lifeways of the Athabascan natives who have called the area home for thousands of years. The museum's collection features traditional clothing, tools, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into the daily lives of these hardy people.

Overall, the McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the fascinating history of one of Alaska's most remote regions. Whether you're interested in mining, transportation, or cultural history, there's something for everyone to discover in this unique and engaging museum.

Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve Visitor Center

Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve is one of the largest national parks in the United States, covering more than 13 million acres of land. It is located in the southeast of Alaska and is part of a larger wilderness area that includes three other national parks. The park is named after two of the largest peaks in the region, Mount Wrangell and Mount Elias, which are both over 10,000 feet tall.

The Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve Visitor Center is the best place to start your journey through this vast wilderness area. By visiting the visitor center, you will find everything you need to know about the park and its surroundings. The center is located on the Glenn Highway, and it's open all year-round, although hours may vary depending on the season.

At the visitor center, you will find park maps, informative exhibits, and an impressive model of the park that illustrates its geology and topography. You will also find a bookstore where you can purchase books, maps, postcards, and other souvenirs. The bookstore also contains a collection of natural history books and field guides, which are essential for any explorer of the park.

One of the most significant features of the visitor center is its staff. The rangers are highly knowledgeable about the park and its history. They are always ready to answer questions and provide guidance on the best places to visit in the park. The rangers also offer guided tours of the park, which may include hiking, wildlife viewing, or historic site exploration.

The visitor center is an excellent resource for planning your trip to Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve. The park is remote, so it's recommended that you plan your visit well in advance. The center can help you with logistics, including lodging, camping, and transportation. They can also provide you with safety tips, such as how to avoid encounters with bears and how to stay safe in the park's unpredictable weather.

In summary, the Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve Visitor Center is an excellent starting point for any visit to the park. Its exhibits, bookstore, and staff provide all the essential information you need to explore this vast and beautiful wilderness area safely. So if you're planning a trip to the park, make sure you include a stop at the visitor center on your itinerary.

Fish Creek Observation Site

Fish Creek is a beautiful and pristine location nestled amid the vast wilderness of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska. It is situated between the Chugach Mountains and the Wrangell Mountains, and is renowned for its picturesque landscape and abundant wildlife. The Fish Creek Observation Site is one of the most popular spots in the park, attracting visitors from all around the world.

The Fish Creek Observation Site is located near the Russell Fjord Wilderness Area, about 17 miles southeast of the community of Yakutat. It is accessible by road, and visitors can drive up to the observation deck at the site. The deck provides an unobstructed view of the surrounding landscape and the creek below, making it a perfect spot for wildlife viewing and photography.

Fish Creek is home to five species of salmon, including chinook, coho, pink, sockeye, and chum. These fish are vital components of the park's ecosystem, and they attract a wide variety of wildlife to the area. Grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, otters, and bald eagles are just a few of the animals that can be spotted at the Fish Creek Observation Site.

The Fish Creek Observation Site is open to visitors from mid-June until mid-September. The park rangers conduct regular tours of the area, providing visitors with information about the salmon and other wildlife that inhabit the creek. The salmon run usually starts in mid-June and ends in late August. During this time, visitors can witness the incredible sight of these majestic fish battling their way upstream to spawn.

Apart from watching the wildlife, visitors can also indulge in numerous recreational activities in the area. The Fish Creek Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the creek and the surrounding wilderness. Fishing is another activity that visitors can enjoy in the creek, as long as they have the appropriate permits.

In conclusion, the Fish Creek Observation Site is a must-visit location in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park for anyone interested in wildlife and nature. The park's rugged and unspoiled landscape, combined with the abundance of wildlife, make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you visit to observe the salmon run or to embark on an adventurous hike, the Fish Creek Observation Site is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Elias Cooperative Grocery

Founded by a group of community members in 2008, Elias Cooperative Grocery has become a staple for residents and visitors alike. The store operates as a member-owned cooperative, which means that customers have an active role in the decision-making process.

Apart from providing high-quality groceries, Elias Cooperative Grocery has a commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The store offers a recycling program where customers can bring in items like batteries, light bulbs, and electronics for proper disposal. Additionally, the store sponsors community events like movie nights, potlucks, and educational seminars.

When visiting Wrangell St. Elias National Park, be sure to stop by Elias Cooperative Grocery. It's an excellent place to stock up on provisions for your adventures, meet locals, and support sustainable practices. Whether you're cooking in your campsite or staying in a nearby cabin, Elias Cooperative Grocery has something for everyone.

Wrangell St. Elias Wilderness Area

Wrangell-St. Elias Wilderness Area is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Alaska. The wilderness area covers over 13 million acres of land and encompasses the highest peak in North America, Mount St. Elias. It is a place of unparalleled beauty, extraordinary geological significance, and an unrivaled sense of wilderness.

Located in the southern region of Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias Wilderness Area is renowned for its diverse wildlife and rugged landscapes. The park is a blend of forests, tundra, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks that provide an array of opportunities for adventure and exploration. The park's primary purpose is to preserve the unique ecological systems and geologic features of the region.

The park is home to diverse wildlife, including caribou, grizzly bears, moose, and wolves. The rivers and lakes that run through the park support a wide range of fish and bird species, as well as providing excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking. The park's pristine wilderness and remote location make it an ideal location for wilderness expeditions and backpacking trips.

The park also boasts some of the most significant geological features in North America. The Wrangell and Chugach Mountains, which are the primary features of the park, were formed by volcanic activity. The park is also home to nine of the 16 highest peaks in the U.S., including Mount St. Elias, which stands at an awe-inspiring 18,008 feet tall.

In addition to its natural beauty, the park is rich in cultural history, with significant importance to the indigenous people who have lived in the region for centuries. The park includes areas that are significant for subsistence activities, such as hunting, trapping, and fishing. Visitors to the park can learn about the cultural heritage of the indigenous people through cultural demonstrations and interpretive programs.

Wrangell-St. Elias Wilderness Area is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you're interested in hiking, camping, fishing, or wildlife viewing, you're sure to find something to suit your interests. The park is a place of unparalleled beauty, a true wilderness that must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

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