Explore Elias National Park & Preserve: Your Ultimate Guide

04 May, 2025

Ever dreamt of escaping to a place where time seems to stand still, where the air is crisp with adventure, and the landscape whispers tales of a bygone era? Then, a journey to McCarthy and Kennicott, nestled within the vast expanse of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve in Alaska, is a must for any intrepid traveler.

Accessible via a road from Chitina, this remarkable region offers a unique blend of natural splendor and historical intrigue. It's a land of dramatic contrasts, where the subarctic climate shapes a rugged, unforgiving beauty and the echoes of a copper mining past resonate in the very stones of the abandoned towns. As of 2020, the population of the region was just 107, which adds to the feeling of being transported to another world.

The journey itself is part of the adventure, especially the drive or flight into McCarthy, a remote, authentic frontier town that seems to cling to the edge of civilization. It's a place where the spirit of the old West meets the raw, untamed wilderness of Alaska. The area holds a population of 28 residents. Here, you can step back in time and explore the historic mining villages of McCarthy and Kennicott, discovering the remnants of a time when fortunes were made and lost in the pursuit of copper.

Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a curious explorer, this comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know to prepare for this unforgettable expedition. Prepare to discover the allure of flightseeing, hiking, and camping, all seen through the eyes of locals. You'll find out how to experience the magic of McCarthy and Kennicott from a local perspective.

McCarthy, a former mining town, holds a unique charm. With its historic buildings and a distinct absence of law enforcement, it's a place where the rules of the modern world seem to fade away. Access is either by a rugged road or a bushplane ride. You'll also find that the largest national park in the U.S. offers so much more than just stunning vistas and challenging trails.

Let's delve into a little more information:

The allure of McCarthy and Kennicott lies not only in their historical significance and stunning natural surroundings but also in the sheer adventure of reaching them. First things first, getting to the beautiful frontier town of McCarthy is part of the adventure. The famous McCarthy Road adds to the journey, with its rough and often unpredictable conditions. Travelers have the option of charter planes, rental cars, or commercial shuttles to navigate this road.

The story goes that when the last train left Kennicott in 1938, people had to suddenly abandon their lives with only a few hours of warning. The history of the area comes alive as you walk down the main street of Kennicott, it's easy to spot the National Park Service Visitor Center on the left, which is housed in the historic general store and post office. It is a chance to learn about the past and envision the events that shaped the region. Mary Beth and her companion first learned about McCarthy's 4th of July parade during their 2016 stay at the Kennicott Glacier Lodge over Independence Day, when they met a couple from Anchorage who had come to Kennicott for the celebration. This event is a testament to the community spirit that thrives in this remote locale. The area offers so much. Walk or cycle, experience the grandeur of the Wrangell Mountains by exploring the trails, or use a shuttle service from downtown McCarthy to Kennicott.

The landscape is a testament to nature's power, where the glaciers have carved their mark on the landscape. Use the Kennicott Road through the national historic landmark on foot. It is easy to find the Jumbo Creek Campground from the Kennicott Mill, 1.4 miles north. The copper river basin is the homeland of the Ahtna people. It sits at the terminus of the Kennicott and Root Glaciers in the shadow of the Chugach Mountains.

Feature	Details
Name	Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve
Location	Alaska, USA
Accessibility	Road from Chitina, Charter plane, Rental Car, Commercial Shuttle
Climate	Subarctic
Historical Significance	Copper Mining Era
Key Villages	McCarthy, Kennicott
Attractions	Historic buildings, Hiking trails, Flightseeing, Camping, Kennecott Mill Town
Population (as of 2020)	107 (Region), 28 (Park)
Native People	Ahtna people
Official Website	National Park Service - Wrangell-St. Elias

The vastness and remoteness of the park and preserve offer a sense of freedom and solitude that is difficult to find in the modern world. Here, you can lose yourself in the rhythm of the wilderness, surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers that seem to stretch to the horizon, and an array of wildlife.

The journey to McCarthy is a tale of its own. To call McCarthy a rugged, authentic, frontier town in inland Alaska is not an exaggeration at all. The drive along the McCarthy Road is an experience that deserves preparation and respect. Learn what you need to know about traveling here via charter plane, rental car, or commercial shuttle. Those who choose to take this road will be rewarded with stunning scenery and the anticipation of arriving in a place where the past and present converge.

For those looking for accommodations, there are lodging options available, some with a direct line to the natural beauty, as Zillow has 2 homes for sale in Alaska matching McCarthy. View listing photos, review sales history, and use detailed real estate filters to find the perfect place.

McCarthy is the perfect stop on your ultimate Alaska vacation itinerary. It is an invitation to explore adventures and history in McCarthy, Alaska, and a place where adventure and natural beauty meet.

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