McCarthy★5.0

How to Get There

From Anchorage (300 mi): Take Glenn Hwy (AK-1 E) to Richardson Hwy (AK-4 N), turn onto Edgerton Hwy toward Chitina, then follow McCarthy Road to its end and cross the footbridge into town.

Overview

McCarthy is a tiny community of a few dozen year-round residents at the foot of the Wrangell Mountains in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, 120 miles northeast of Cordova, the gateway to Kennecott. It is at the end of the 60-mile McCarthy Road (gravel) spur off the Edgerton Highway, with a footbridge over the river into town. It has a small main street with a saloon, a few lodges, and outfitters for flightseeing and glacier trips.

Things to Do

Discover One of Alaska's Most Unique Remote Communities

McCarthy is a small historic town located at the end of the McCarthy Road in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve. Originally established to support nearby mining operations, the town today serves as a hub for visitors exploring the park while retaining its frontier character, historic buildings, and remote wilderness atmosphere.

Explore Historic Downtown McCarthy

Many of McCarthy's original structures from the early 1900s remain standing and continue to be used as hotels, restaurants, shops, and community gathering places. Walking through town provides visitors with a glimpse into Alaska's mining-era history and the rugged lifestyle of a remote frontier settlement.

Visit Nearby Kennecott

Just five miles from McCarthy, the historic Kennecott Mining District is one of Alaska's most significant National Historic Landmarks. Visitors can tour the famous copper mill, explore preserved mining buildings, and learn about the area's industrial history.

Walk or Shuttle to Kennecott

A road and trail connect McCarthy and Kennecott, allowing visitors to walk, bike, or take a shuttle between the two communities. The route provides excellent views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and historic sites.

Take a Flightseeing Tour

Several local operators offer scenic flights over Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. These tours provide breathtaking aerial views of glaciers, icefields, mountain peaks, and remote backcountry terrain that is inaccessible by road.

Experience Glacier Adventures

McCarthy serves as the primary base for guided excursions to Root Glacier. Visitors can participate in glacier hikes, ice trekking experiences, and other outdoor adventures while learning about the area's geology and natural history.

Enjoy the Local Culture

Despite its small permanent population, McCarthy is known for its welcoming community, seasonal events, local dining options, live entertainment, and distinctive Alaska charm. Many visitors find the town itself to be one of the highlights of a trip to Wrangell-St. Elias.

Top Trails

McCarthy to Kennecott Road Trail

Length: Approximately 5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy

This easy route connects McCarthy and Kennecott, allowing visitors to experience both historic communities while enjoying scenic views of glaciers, rivers, and mountain landscapes.

Root Glacier Trail

Length: Approximately 4 miles round trip from Kennecott
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

One of the most popular hikes in Wrangell-St. Elias, this trail leads through glacial moraine terrain to the edge of Root Glacier. Visitors can enjoy outstanding views of glacial landscapes and surrounding peaks.

Bonanza Mine Trail

Length: Approximately 9 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 3,800 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous

Beginning near Kennecott, this challenging trail climbs to the historic Bonanza Mine. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Root Glacier, the Kennicott Valley, and the surrounding Wrangell Mountains.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia article and official pages for Travel Alaska - Kennicott & McCarthy, ExplorOFF - Things to Do in McCarthy and Kennecott, McCarthy, Alaska, released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.