Imagine about a place where mountains rise above clouds, with endless glaciers, and wildlife roams free. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, located in Alaska, is all of this and more. Spanning over 13.2 million acres, this is the largest national park in the United States—and believe me that it is bigger than some countries!
Visiting Wrangell-St. Elias is like entering an untouched world where nature reigns supreme. Whether you’re traveling with family or solo, our detailed guide to visit Wrangell St Elias Park, will help you plan your adventure and experience to this spectacular destination.
Why Wrangell-St. Elias Should Be on Your Bucket List
Wrangell-St. Elias besides being the largest park in the U.S.— is also a natural marvel. Here’s what makes it unique:
- Large Size: At 13.2 million acres, it’s larger than Switzerland or Costa Rica and about the size of Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Vermont combined.
- Majestic Peaks: Home to nine of the 16 tallest mountains in the U.S.. Including Mount St. Elias, the second-highest peak at 18,008 feet.
- Glaciers Everywhere: Covering over 25% of the park, the glaciers here could alone outsize the state of Rhode Island.
- Rich Ecosystems: The park is teeming with wildlife. From grizzlies and wolves to moose and mountain goats.
- Secluded Wilderness: Unlike crowded national parks, this one offers true solitude—an increasingly rare treasure.
How Big Is Wrangell-St. Elias Compared to Other Parks?
To grasp its enormity, let’s compare Wrangell-St. Elias to other famous parks:
- It’s six times the size of Yellowstone National Park.
- It’s more than 70% larger than Denali National Park, its Alaskan neighbor.
- Its size eclipses some smaller countries, like Belgium or Haiti.
Getting to Wrangell-St. Elias
Gateway Towns. Your journey to this vast park often begins in Anchorage or Fairbanks, Alaska’s major cities. From there, head to Chitina, the main gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias. The park also houses small, historical towns, including McCarthy and Kennecott.
By Road. Drive along the Edgerton Highway, which connects Chitina to the famous McCarthy Road. This 60-mile gravel road passes through pristine wilderness and leads to McCarthy. It’s an adventure in itself, with spectacular scenery and a chance to spot wildlife.
By Air. For those looking to save time or gain a bird’s-eye view. Small charter flights are available from Anchorage or other nearby towns. Flying into McCarthy or Kennecott is a unique way to appreciate the park’s scale.
Unique Features of Wrangell-St. Elias
Towns Inside the Park. The park isn’t just wilderness—it includes fascinating historical sites:
- McCarthy: A quirky, off-the-grid town with a population of fewer than 50 residents. It’s a hub for adventurers and a base for exploring nearby trails.
- Kennecott: A preserved mining town where you can tour the historic Kennecott Copper Mines, now a National Historic Landmark.
Glaciers and Icefields. The park is home to Hubbard Glacier, one of the largest tidewater glaciers in North America, and the Malaspina Glacier, which spans an area larger than Delaware.
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Things to Do in Wrangell-St. Elias
Take a Guided Glacier Hike. Walking on a glacier is a must-do activity. You’ll strap on crampons and explore the icy terrain with an experienced guide. Feeling the crunch of ancient ice beneath your feet is both thrilling and humbling.
Visit Kennecott Mines. Explore the historic buildings of Kennecott Mines. This building once housed one of the richest copper deposits in the world. Guided tours offers insights into Alaska’s mining history.
👉 Learn more about Kennecott Mines on the National Park Service website.
Go Wildlife Watching. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Spot bears fishing for salmon, caribou grazing in the tundra, or eagles soaring above. For families, it’s a chance to see animals in their natural habitat—an experience kids will never forget.
Fly Over the Park. A flightseeing tour provides a once-in-a-lifetime view of the park’s glaciers, mountains, and icefields. It’s the best way to grasp the vastness of this remote wilderness.
Ideal Trip Length for Families and Solo Travelers
For Families. A 3–4 day trip works well for families. This allows time to explore the Kennecott Mines, take a short glacier hike, and enjoy a scenic drive or flight tour.
For Solo or Adventure Travelers. Solo travelers or outdoor enthusiasts can spend a week or more diving deeper into the backcountry. With proper preparation, you can trek remote trails, camp under the stars, and truly connect with the wild.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is between June and September. During these months, mild weather and long daylight hours provide perfect opportunities for exploring. Winter visits are possible, but they require careful planning due to extreme weather and limited accessibility.
What to Pack for Your Trip
- Sturdy Hiking Boots: Essential for navigating uneven terrain.
- Warm Clothing: Weather can change quickly, so pack both warm and waterproof layers.
- Bear Spray: A must for safety in bear country.
- High-Energy Snacks: Hiking trails are remote, so pack food and water.
- Detailed Maps: GPS may not work in many areas of the park.
Wrangell-St. Elias Awaits You
Visiting Wrangell-St. Elias is a journey into nature’s raw beauty and power. Whether you’re gazing at towering peaks, walking on glaciers, or exploring historic towns, every moment feels extraordinary.
Key Takeaways
- Wrangell-St. Elias is bigger than some countries, offering endless opportunities for adventure.
- It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, and anyone seeking solitude.
- Pack smart and prepare for a remote, rugged, and awe-inspiring experience.
So why wait? Answer the call of the wild and proceed on an unforgettable adventure in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
FAQs
Q1: How big is Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?
It’s 13.2 million acres. Larger than Switzerland and about the size of six Yellowstones.
Q2: Can I visit with children?
Yes! The park offers family-friendly activities, such as guided tours and wildlife spotting.
Q3: What’s the best way to explore the park?
A mix of driving, hiking, and flightseeing is the best way to experience the park’s diverse landscapes.
Q4: Are there places to stay in the park?
Yes, options include lodges in McCarthy and Kennecott, as well as backcountry camping.
Q5: How many days do I need to visit the park?
Families should plan for 3–4 days. While solo travelers may want to spend a week or more.
