← Wrangell St Elias National Park And Preserve

9 things to do in Wrangell St Elias National Park And Preserve

Choose stops that match your interests and group nearby visits to make the most of your day.

  1. Arrival in McCarthy & Orientation

    Arrive in McCarthy, the gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias, and get oriented with the area, local guides, and park regulations. Pick up maps and permits at the visitor center. Tip: Confirm your gear and supplies before heading into the park, as services are limited.

    1h

    Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Visitor Center, Mile 59.4 McCarthy Road, McCarthy, AK 99588

  2. Copper River Salmon Fishing (Guided)

    Fish for world-famous Copper River salmon with a local guide, learning about sustainable fishing practices and river ecology. Tip: August is peak season, so expect strong runs and active fish.

    3h

    Copper River, Chitina, AK 99566

  3. Fishing on the Gulkana River (Guided)

    Fish for Arctic grayling and salmon on the Gulkana River with a local guide, learning about river ecology and best techniques. Tip: August is prime time for salmon runs, so expect active fishing.

    3h

    Gulkana River, Glennallen, AK 99588

  4. Guided Ice Climbing on Root Glacier

    Try ice climbing with professional guides on Root Glacier, suitable for beginners and experienced climbers. All technical gear provided. Tip: Book early, as spots are limited and this is a highlight for adventure seekers.

    3h

    Root Glacier, McCarthy, AK 99588

  5. Guided Wildlife Viewing Tour (Glennallen Area)

    Join a local naturalist for a morning wildlife tour, searching for moose, caribou, eagles, and possibly bears in the Glennallen area. Tip: Early morning offers the best chance for sightings and good light for photography.

    3h

    Glennallen, AK 99588

  6. Historic Kennecott Mill Town Tour

    Take a guided tour of the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, exploring the preserved mill buildings and learning about the copper mining boom. Tip: Book in advance, as tours fill up quickly in summer.

    2h

    Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, Kennecott, AK 99588

  7. Mountain Biking the McCarthy Road

    Ride a guided mountain biking route along the scenic McCarthy Road, passing through boreal forest and along the Nizina River. Tip: Choose a half-day route for varied terrain and photo stops.

    3h

    McCarthy Road, McCarthy, AK 99588

  8. Root Glacier Hike with Guide

    Join a guided hike on Root Glacier, traversing blue ice, crevasses, and meltwater streams unique to this Alaskan wilderness. Guides provide crampons and safety instruction. Tip: Wear waterproof boots and bring sunglasses for glare off the ice.

    3h

    Root Glacier Trailhead, McCarthy, AK 99588

  9. Transport: Chitina to Glennallen by Private Car

    Drive from Chitina to Glennallen along the scenic Richardson Highway, passing through boreal forests and with views of the Wrangell Mountains. Tip: Watch for moose and eagles along the roadside.

    2h

    Richardson Hwy, Chitina, AK 99566

Planning your visit

  • Group stops by area and allow time for travel and breaks.
  • Check opening hours, bookings and accessibility with the sources before visiting.
Create a personalised itinerary