---

What is the difference between National Park and Preserve?

A National Park is an area of unusual scenic or historic interest owned by the federal government and administered by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, to conserve the scenery, the flora and fauna, and any natural and historical objects within its boundaries for public enjoyment in perpetuity. A national park usually has more than one type of national significance.

A National Preserve is similar to a National Park, but allows other human activities to occur, such as sport hunting.  ANILCA directed that preserves be administered “in the same manner as a national park…except that the taking of fish and wildlife for sport purposes and subsistence uses, and trapping shall be allowed.”  Future access to Dall sheep for sport hunting and protection of certain visitor corridors from hunting were some of the controversial issues involved in drawing the boundaries between Park and Preserve  

Where did the park get its name?

Wrangell-St. Elias is named for two of the mountain ranges that form its rugged backbone. The Wrangell Mountains were named after Baron Ferdinand Petrovich von Wrangel (1796-1870), who was a Russian Naval officer, arctic explorer, and government administrator. He was a governor of the Russian colonies in Alaska (1829-35), director of the Russian American company (1840-49), and minister of the navy (1855-57).

The St. Elias Mountains were named by explorer Vitus Bering (1681-1741). Bering was a Danish explorer in Russian employ that was selected in 1725 by Peter I to explore far NE Siberia.  In 1728 Bering oversaw the exploration and mapping of the far reaches of Siberia and headed an expedition across the sea (which later was to bear his name) to Alaska. Bering sighted massive coastal mountains on July 16. The lofty summit of Mt. St. Elias was the first piece of Alaska mainland to catch Vitus Bering’s eye. That day was the feast day of the Saint Elias. The area where they made landfall was named for Elias. Eventually the mountain too came to be called Mount St. Elias.

How long has this been a Park?

Wrangell-St. Elias National Monument (10,950,000 acres) was established along with 16 other national monuments on November 16, 1978.  The Alaska Native Interests Land Conservation Act (ANILCA) of November 12, 1980 established Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve (WRST) and nine other national parks, and designated 56,000,000 acres of wilderness, effectively more than doubling the acreage in the NPS and Wilderness Preservation System. 

What are public use cabins?  Who can use them?

Currently, there are 13 public-use cabins located within Wrangell-St. Elias. Most of these cabins were old mining, trapping, or hunting cabins that are located on public land and have been restored by the National Park Service. These are remote locations and require hikers/campers to make appropriate plans. Many of these cabins are accessible only by aircraft.

Are there landing strips in the Park?

There are three improved airstrips in Wrangell-St. Elias. One, located at McCarthy, is maintained by the State of Alaska. The other two, at Chisana and May Creek, are maintained by the park. Public airport facilities are also located near the park at Gulkana and Chitina.

There are unimproved strips, requiring requisite pilot skill, at numerous locations throughout the park, many adjacent to public use cabins. It’s best to contact the park Operations Center and Hangar at (907) 822-5236 for detailed information on specific landing areas. 

What is subsistence Hunting/Fishing?

Many Alaskans live off the land, relying on fish, wildlife and other wild resources. Alaska Natives have used these resources for food, shelter, clothing, transportation, handicrafts and trade for thousands of years. Other residents living in rural Alaska depend on local harvests as reliable and economic food sources. When Congress passed the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) in 1980, which established Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, it recognized the important connection between local rural subsistence users and the land in allowing for a continued opportunity for a subsistence lifestyle by rural Alaska residents. As long as resources and their habitats are maintained in a natural and healthy state, traditional subsistence hunting, trapping and fishing are allowed in the park and preserve.

Are permits required for backpacking?

Backcountry permits are NOT required, but travelers are encouraged to complete a "Backcountry Itinerary" available at any park office. Additionally, leave your route and expected time of return with a friend or family member. If you fail to check in from a backcountry trip, rangers will not initiate a search until a specific request from a friend or family member is made. Assistance may be days or miles away, so be extraordinarily careful in this vast region.

How dangerous are river/stream crossings on the trails?

Most backcountry routes in Wrangell-St. Elias require numerous creek and river crossings. Bridges and log crossings are virtually non-existent. These crossings can be VERY dangerous without preparation, patience, and planning. Hikers must be familiar with safe techniques for crossing rivers and streams. Many are impassable, even for experts. Other can change quickly from trickling creeks to raging torrents, so be especially cautious.

When did Mt. Wrangell last erupt?

Eruptive activity has been noted in Mt. Wrangell in 1784, 1884-5, and 1900. On clear, cold, and calm days, steam plumes are often visible.

What is the McCarthy Road Like?

The 61-mile McCarthy Road offers Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve visitors a unique opportunity to explore interior Alaska. Driving this road is an Alaskan adventure. It's gravel and dirt surface makes for slow travel-it can take 3 hours or more. Other hazards can make it even longer: heavy rain can make the road muddy and slippery; sharp rocks can cause flat tires; narrow and one-lane bridges make maneuvering large vehicles difficult. In fact, large vehicles are not recommended beyond mile 17. Always check on current conditions before heading out.

What is the Nabesna Road like?

This 42-mile gravel road from Slana to Nabesna traverses the headwaters country of the Copper and Tanana drainages. It is a dusty, gravel, dead end road that is short on services but big on wilderness! The Nabesna Road offers Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve visitors a unique opportunity to explore interior Alaska. Camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing and hunting are just a sampling of the activities available just off of the road. Always check on current conditions before heading out.

When will the roads into the Park be improved?

The NPS completed a "Scenic Corridor Plan", incorporating the State of Alaska's plans for a major upgrade to the McCarthy road. The Plan called for opening of scenic overlooks, construction of pullouts and interpretive waysides, and development of trails, including a bike-path. The State's plan for a road upgrade is part of an Environmental Impact Statement that was released for public comment in 1997. Alternatives ranged from no-action to paving. The State also replaced the Kennicott River tram in the fall of 1996 with a footbridge as an improvement to public safety and to make the area more accessible.

What services are available to access the park?

Access into the Park/Preserve is usually by private vehicle along unpaved gravel roads, via watercraft or by chartered air taxi service from Tok, Glennallen (Gulkana), McCarthy, Valdez, Cordova or Yakutat. With the exception of Yakutat and Cordova, these communities can be reached by private vehicle or bus lines from Anchorage. Yakutat and Cordova can be reached by Alaska Airlines (800)-426-0333 which offers daily jet service from both Juneau and Anchorage. Cordova and Valdez are accessed via the Alaska Marine Highway (State Ferry) (800) 642-0066.

Glennallen, the largest community near the park, is located at the junction of the Richardson and Glenn Highways. 

Alaska Direct Line (800) 770-6652 runs a bus from Anchorage to Tok, with multiple stops along the way, including in Glennallen. Call for days and schedules.

Seasonally, Backcountry Connection (907) 822-5292 makes daily runs between Glennallen to McCarthy and back, with stops along the way.

Seasonally, McCarthy-Kennicott Shuttle (907) 554-1222 provides transportation from Anchorage all the way to McCarthy. Shuttles depart Anchorage on Wednesdays and Sundays at 9:00 am and arrive at McCarthy by 5:00 pm.

Ellis Air Taxi has scheduled flights on Wednesdays and Fridays. Call (907) 822-3368 or 800-478-3368 for prices and flight times. Wrangell Mountain Air, (800) 478-1160, offers twice daily service (Mid-May to Mid-September) from Chitina to McCarthy with advance reservations.

How bad are the mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes emerge as the snow melts and peak from mid-May through mid-July. A headnet is recommended for backcountry exploring.

Is the Park open all year?

The Park is open year round. The hours of each station vary by season with some being closed for the winter.

What fish are in the Copper River area?

Fish in the Copper River area include: Grayling, Dolly Varden, Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout, Burbot, Whitefish, Red Salmon (sockeye), King Salmon (Chinook), and Silver Salmon (Coho).

What is a fish wheel?

The fish wheel is a method of fishing used for subsistence fishing on the Copper River. The typical Alaskan fishwheel has two-basket wheels alternated with two-paddles and is mounted between raft logs or floats. The fish are caught in the baskets and dropped into a fish storage box for harvest.

Why isn’t the copper in Kennecott still mined?

By the late 1920’s, the supply of high-grade ore was diminishing, and Kennecott Copper was diversifying into other North American and Chilean mines. Declining profits and increasing costs of railroad repairs led to the eventual closure of the Kennecott operation in 1938.

What types of wildlife might I see in the Park?

While there is a vast amount of wildlife in Wrangell-St. Elias, opportunities to view it from your vehicle are limited due to dense brush and forest along the roads. Therefore, the best spots for viewing wildlife will be from alpine areas above tree line. Wrangell-St. Elias contains one of the largest concentrations of Dall sheep in North America. Look for them along rocky ridges and mountainsides. Moose are often seen near willow bogs and lakes. In the fall, bears and other animals may be sighted near salmon spawning streams. Other species of large mammals include mountain goats, caribou, moose, brown/grizzly bear, black bear, and even two herds of transplanted bison. Smaller mammals found here include lynx, wolverine, beaver, marten, porcupine, fox, wolves, marmots, river otters, and many small rodents. The coastal areas of the park are habitat for abundant marine mammals, including sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, porpoises and even whales.

Where does the Copper River begin and end?

The Copper River begins on Mount Wrangell at the terminus of the Copper Glacier and flows approximately 280 miles to its mouth at the Copper River Delta near Cordova.

Can I bring a firearm for bear protection?

Firearms ARE allowed in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, but it is illegal to carry firearms in some of Alaska's other national parks, so check before you go. Firearms should never be used as the alternative to common-sense approaches to bear encounters. If you are inexperienced with a firearm in emergency situations, you are more likely to be injured by a gun than a bear. Bear sprays which contain capsaicin (red pepper extract) have been used with some success for protection against bears. These sprays may be effective at a range of 6-8 yards.

Are dogs allowed on the trails?

Dogs are allowed on trails within the Park. It is the owner’s responsibility to maintain control over the dogs. Keep in mind that a dog running loose might bring an unwanted surprise, in the form of a bear or even a moose, back to the master.

Will we see the Northern Lights?   

An auroral display might be observed from dusk until dawn as long as it is dark which excludes Alaskan summer nights.  The best time to view them is between midnight and 2 am. 

Click here for tonight's aurora forecast

Are BRFC’s available at the visitor’s center?

Bear Resistant Food Containers are currently available at the visitor centers at Slana, Kennecott, and Copper Center. A deposit is taken and will be refunded upon return of the container.

Do I need a water filter in the backcountry?

All drinking water should be purified either by boiling, filtering or using a chemical purification system.

Is there good fishing in the area? 

Man is there ever good fishing here!!!! The Copper River is famous the world over for the health of its salmon runs and the taste of its fish. Sockeye, Chinook, Coho, Dolly Varden, Rainbow Trout, Burbot, Lake Trout, Grayling and White Fish are among those that can be caught in the waters within the Park and surrounding area.

Do I need a special license to sport hunt and fish in the park?

Within the Park an Alaska state hunting and fishing license is required for all hunters and anglers age 16 or older.

Is there private property in the park?

There are about 750,000 privately-held acres within Wrangell-St. Elias Park and Preserve. Always respect private property rights.

Where can I get topographic maps?

Topo maps covering the more commonly visited areas of the park are available at the main visitor center at Copper Center. You can also obtain maps from USGS, as well as many other on-line sources.

Can I use my ATV in the park?

Recreational ATV (all-terrain vehicle) use is allowed, provided a permit is obtained at Slana Ranger Station or Park Headquarters. Use is restricted to established ATV trails. More...

Where can I access air taxi services?

Air taxis for backcountry dropoff/pickup and flightseeing trips operate from Glennallen, Chitina, McCarthy, and Yakutat.

Can I collect rock and fossil specimens and pan for gold in the park?

Recreational (non-commercial) surface collection by hand of rocks and minerals (except silver, platinum, gemstones, and fossils) is permitted. Collection methods that may result in disturbance of ground surface, such as pickaxes, sluice boxes, shovels, and dredges, are prohibited. Use of metal detectors is illegal.

If I find antlers or horns while hiking in Wrangell-St. Elias can I keep them?

No, removal of skulls, antlers, and horns is prohibited.

Can I build a campfire in the backcountry?

While campfires are allowed, a backpacking stove is the more logical choice for low-impact camping. Much of the backcountry is above treeline, so wood is not available. Use downed or dead wood only and, if possible, build campfires in existing fire rings.

Further, before leaving the site, make certain that your fire is completely extinguished.

 

Are there mountain biking opportunities in Wrangell-St. Elias?

The exceptionally rugged terrain of Wrangell-St. Elias makes biking generally quite difficult. However, both the McCarthy and Nabesna Roads are suitable for mountain bikes, as are some routes accessed from these two roads. More...

Do I need to concern myself with hypothermia?

Yes! Hypothermia, a condition where your body loses heat faster than it can supply it, is an ever present danger in cold climates. This condition can result with cold ambient temperatures between 30 and 60 degrees F, especially when accompanied by wind or rain.  More...

What does it mean to be a World Heritage Site?

World Heritage Sites are “such outstanding universally recognized natural and cultural features that they attract the admiration and merit the protection of all people worldwide.”  Wrangell-St. Elias and Glacier Bay National Parks, along with Kluane National Park and Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park in Canada, form a World Heritage Site containing 24.3 million acres, the largest internationally protected terrestrial area on the planet!

When is the mountaineering season in Wrangell-St. Elias?

Typically, April through June is the optimal mountaineering season. Mt. Bona (16,421’), Mt. Blackburn (16,390’), Mt. Sanford (16,237’), and Mt. St. Elias (18,008’) are good candidates for your adventure. Local guide services are available.

I want to walk on a glacier!  How difficult is it to access a glacier in the park?

Easy! Of the 5,000 square miles of glacial ice in Wrangell-St. Elias, the Root Glacier is the most accessible. An easy 1 ½ mile stroll from the historic mining town of Kennecott along the Root Glacier Trail leads you right onto the glacier.

Is there lodging in the park?

The Kennecott/McCarthy area, accessed via the 61-mile McCarthy Road, offers accommodations in the form of bed & breakfasts, cabins, lodges, and a hostel. Along the Nabesna Road, bed & breakfasts are available at Slana and at the end of the road. Additional lodging is available on the park’s western boundary at Chitina, Copper Center, Kenny Lake, Tonsina, and Glennallen. More...

I can’t take my rental vehicle on gravel roads. What services are available to access the park?

Most major car rental companies in Anchorage do not let renters drive vehicles gravel roads. Several of the discount and independent rental companies do. A-1 Car Rental at 907-929-1222, Payless Car Rental at 1-800-729-5377, and Advantage Car and Van Rental at 907-243-8806 all allow renters to drive on the McCarthy and Nabesna Roads. Some may have added expense or requirements for such a rental.

Is the park open year round?

Wrangell-St. Elias, open year-round, is a great place to cross-country ski, snowshoe, snowmobile, and flightsee during the winter months. With most rivers frozen, the backcountry is actually more easily accessed in the winter than the summer. Although both the McCarthy and Nabesna Roads are generally passable, four-wheel drive is recommended from October through April due to snow and ice conditions. It’s not unusual for temperatures to dip to minus 50F, so plan accordingly. Carrying winter survival gear in your vehicle is extremely important, as traffic on remote roads, such as the McCarthy and Nabesna, can be quite sparse. All in all, winter in Wrangell-St. Elias is breathtakingly beautiful and a rewarding experience.

Are there landing strips in the park?

There are three improved airstrips in Wrangell-St. Elias.  One, located at McCarthy, is maintained by the State of Alaska. The other two, at Chisana and May Creek, are maintained by the park. There are unimproved strips, requiring requisite pilot skill, at numerous locations throughout the park, many adjacent to public use cabins. It’s best to contact the park Operations Center and Hangar at (907) 822-5236 for detailed information on specific landing areas. Public airport facilities are also located near the park at Gulkana and Chitina.

Are there any good rafting rivers in the park?

Wrangell-St. Elias offers many awesome wilderness rafting opportunities.  Local river guide services are available to assist in your adventure.

My children are interested in becoming Junior Rangers. Does Wrangell-St. Elias have such a program?

The park’s visitor center at Copper Center administers a Junior Ranger Program, whereby kids 6-12 years of age, upon successful completion of an activity book, can receive a badge, certificate, and be sworn in as Junior Rangers. 

An on-line version of the Junior Ranger Program is available on this website along with many other cool things for kids. 

Are Ranger Programs available at the park?

A variety of Park Ranger guided walks and programs are available at Wrangell-St. Elias visitor stations daily during the summer months. Check the schedule...

Are tours of Kennecott National Historic Landmark available?

During summer months, there are a number of guided tours and explorations in the Kennecott Area. Park Rangers conduct guided hikes and history programs throughout the day. check the Kennecott Ranger program schedule.

A private concession, St. Elias Alpine Guides provides daily guided tours, generally two hours in length, of the interior of the world-famous Kennecott copper mill complex during the summer months.