Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve Guide
America's Mountain Kingdom: Explore Untamed Wilderness! Guide
Discover the raw beauty and unparalleled scale of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, a vast and largely untouched wilderness in south-central Alaska. This is not your typical national park; it's a land of superlatives, boasting the greatest collection of peaks over 16,000 feet on the continent, including Mount St. Elias, the second-highest peak in the United States. Prepare to be awestruck by glaciers, mountains, rivers, and a sense of solitude that's hard to find anywhere else. Wrangell-St. Elias has a rich history, shaped by both its indigenous inhabitants and the arrival of miners seeking copper in the early 20th century. The Ahtna Athabascan people have lived in this region for centuries, their lives intertwined with the land and its resources. The discovery of copper at Kennecott led to the establishment of a mining town that thrived for several decades before being abandoned. Today, the park preserves both the natural and cultural heritage of this remarkable area. Activities in Wrangell-St. Elias are geared towards those seeking adventure and solitude. Hiking and backpacking are popular, with trails ranging from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks. Flightseeing tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the park's glaciers and mountains. River rafting and kayaking are also popular options. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition within the park itself, the nearby town of Glennallen offers restaurants and cafes where you can sample Alaskan cuisine, including fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients.
Transportation
Access to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve is limited. The park headquarters is located in Copper Center, Alaska, accessible via the Richardson Highway. From Anchorage, drive north on the Glenn Highway to Glennallen, then continue on the Richardson Highway to Copper Center. Within the park, access is primarily by air taxi or on foot. The McCarthy Road, a 60-mile gravel road, provides access to the historic Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark. Be prepared for challenging driving conditions.
Opening Hours
Park is open year-round, but visitor center hours vary seasonally. Check the National Park Service website for current hours.
Ticket Price
There are no entrance fees for Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve.