WRANGELL-ST. ELIAS NATIONAL PARK
WRANGELL-ST. ELIAS NATIONAL PARK
WRANGELL-ST. ELIAS TRIP FOR THE FAMILY
Welcome to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, a vast wilderness where families can immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. With its towering mountains, sprawling glaciers, and diverse wildlife, Wrangell-St. Elias offers families a chance to connect with nature and embark on unforgettable adventures together. Here are eight points of interest to see in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park:
Kennecott Mines: Begin your journey at the historic Kennecott Mines, a preserved mining complex that offers a glimpse into Alaska’s gold rush history. Explore the abandoned buildings, learn about the mining operations, and take a guided tour of the mill and bunkhouses.
Root Glacier: Hike to Root Glacier, one of the park’s most accessible glaciers. Strap on crampons and explore the icy landscape, marveling at crevasses, ice caves, and crystal-clear pools. Join a guided ice hiking tour for a safe and informative glacier experience.
Wrangell Mountains: Discover the towering peaks of the Wrangell Mountains, home to some of the highest peaks in North America. Take a scenic flightseeing tour to soar above the rugged landscape, or embark on a backpacking adventure to explore remote alpine valleys and pristine lakes.
McCarthy: Explore the quirky town of McCarthy, a historic mining town turned outdoor adventure hub. Wander the charming streets, browse local art galleries and gift shops, and enjoy a meal at one of the town’s eclectic eateries.
Kennicott Glacier: Marvel at the immense Kennicott Glacier, which stretches for miles across the landscape. Take a guided glacier hike or ice climbing excursion to explore this icy wonderland up close, or simply admire the glacier’s beauty from a scenic overlook.
Nizina River: Raft the Nizina River for an exhilarating whitewater adventure through the heart of the park. Navigate thrilling rapids, float past towering cliffs and lush forests, and keep an eye out for wildlife such as bald eagles, bears, and moose.
Wrangell-St. Elias Visitor Center: Visit the Wrangell-St. Elias Visitor Center to learn about the park’s natural and cultural history. Explore interactive exhibits, watch informative films, and chat with park rangers for insider tips on exploring the park.
Junior Ranger Program: Engage the whole family in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park’s Junior Ranger Program, where kids can learn about wilderness conservation, glacier ecology, and outdoor safety through fun and interactive activities. Upon completion, they’ll receive a badge and a sense of pride in protecting this vast wilderness area.
With its towering mountains, expansive glaciers, and opportunities for adventure and exploration, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers families a chance to connect with nature and create memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your sense of adventure, warm layers, and camera, and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Alaskan wilderness.
OUR WRANGELL-ST. ELIAS STORY
We began driving East on the Denali Highway towards Wrangell-St. Elias National Park at about 6:00 am. It was July 30th, Bill’s birthday, and a special gift to be driving on one of the best roads in America. Even though most of the highway was gravel and dirt, it was a pleasure….