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5 Available Tour Excursions in Mccarthy
*Trip Highlights* ~Float along the face of a 25-mile glacier ~Jump from an Iceberg into the glacial waters ~Expert paddle instruction ~Enjoy the best rapids on the Kennicott River ~Explore the glacial lake ecology ~Local knowledge of the natural & human history of the Kennicott ~Valley ~Drysuits – Raft Class III Whitewater and relish every splash
Price: $285.00
Duration: 4 hours
Kennecott, Alaska is a ghost town frozen in time. When the Kennecott Copper Corporation abruptly abandoned the town in 1938, they left behind their equipment, buildings, and personal belongings; yet, their stories of discovery, perseverance, and ingenuity live on! St. Elias Alpine Guides holds the exclusive concession with the National Park Service, and access to the 14-story Concentration Mill is only possible through this tour. Come see what it was like to live and work in this remote wilderness as you tour the town site with one of our knowledgeable guides. Listen to tales of lucky fortunes, tenacious frontiersmen, and tragic endings. Gain exclusive access to explore inside the 14-story mill building and several other historic buildings when you join our tour! Our 2-hour historic Mill Town Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Kennecott, Alaska!
Price: $36.00
Duration: 2 hours
Tour Highlights ~Interpretive Walking Tour through the Historic Kennicott Mining Town ~Soaring Glacial & Mountain Vistas ~Hike on the White Ice of the Root Glacier ~Explore Unique Glacial Features (Blue Pools, Moulins, Crevasses) ~Drink from a Glacial Stream ~Unbeatable Views of the Stairway Icefall
Price: $285.00
Duration: 5 hours
Looking for the best kayaking trip in Alaska? Look no further! Get on the water, soak in the serenity, and enjoy some of the finest views that Kennicott Valley has to offer. Your expert guide will entertain you on a special interpretive tour of Glacial Lake, one of the region's newest geographical features. This tour is designed for folks wanting to get out and experience the beauty of Kennicott Valley in a safe and informative way.
Price: $285.00
Duration: 4 hours
Make sure you prioritize safety by exploring the Root Glacier with the longest-standing guide service in the valley! With over 40 years of experience in Wrangell St. Elias National Park, our guides are well-trained on the 2-mile trail to the glacier and navigating the Root Glacier's diverse features! Elevate your hike with insight into the flora, fauna, and local history you'll see along the way! This hike is a moderate 5-6 mile round trip and is great for families, couples, and solo travelers! We send around 8 travelers per guide and people with diverse ability levels are welcome! From strong hikers to beginners, we welcome anyone with a sense of adventure! This hike is challenging for those under the age of 7 and anyone with knee problems. Private tour options are available and can be a great fit for families, those who need additional assistance while hiking, or even advanced hikers looking to push their tour to the limits! Call for Private options.
Price: $127.00
Duration: 5 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: English
- Climate: Subarctic
- Timezone: America/Anchorage
- Population: Approximately 30 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is summer when the weather is milder and access roads are open.
- Visa Requirements Visitors to McCarthy generally follow the United States visa policies. Citizens of visa waiver countries such as the US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, and New Zealand can enter without a visa for short stays. Others may require a visa or ESTA authorization. No specific local visa is needed beyond US entry requirements.
About Mccarthy
McCarthy, Alaska, is a unique and remote destination nestled in the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States. Its isolation and rugged beauty make it a magnet for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. The town itself is a small historic mining community with a population of about 30 people, offering a glimpse into Alaska’s gold rush past. Visitors are drawn to McCarthy for its dramatic mountain landscapes, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor exploration. The absence of paved roads and limited modern infrastructure add to its charm, providing a step back in time and a chance to disconnect from the hustle of modern life. McCarthy is also a gateway to the nearby Kennecott Mines, a well-preserved ghost town and National Historic Landmark. The combination of history, nature, and adventure makes McCarthy a compelling destination for those looking to experience Alaska’s wild frontier.
McCarthy Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Alaska
- Duration Range: Custom Durations
- Group Size: Private or shared tours
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is summer when the weather is milder and access roads are open. Pack warm, layered clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots. Respect local customs and the fragile environment. Safety tips include preparing for wildlife encounters and carrying emergency supplies. Cash is preferred as card payment options may be limited. Cell service is sparse, so plan communication ahead.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $55
Highest Price Tour: $200
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Kennecott Mines - Historic copper mining site with preserved buildings and guided tours. 2. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park - Vast wilderness offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and glacier exploration. 3. Root Glacier - Accessible glacier with guided ice walks and stunning ice formations. 4. McCarthy Road - Scenic and rugged road connecting McCarthy to the outside world, popular for off-road adventures. 5. McCarthy Historic District - Small town area with historic buildings, local shops, and cultural exhibits.
Popular Activities
Visitors to McCarthy can engage in glacier hiking, wildlife photography, fishing, and kayaking. Guided tours of the Kennecott Mines provide insight into the area’s mining heritage. Backpacking and camping in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park are popular for nature lovers. Seasonal activities include bird watching and exploring the vast wilderness by ATV or on foot. The remote location encourages a connection with nature and offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
McCarthy’s food scene is modest but hearty, reflecting its frontier roots. Local cuisine features fresh Alaskan salmon, game meats, and wild berries. Visitors can enjoy rustic meals at lodges and cafes, often including homemade breads, soups, and stews. Noteworthy spots include the Roadside Potatohead and The Red Dog Saloon, known for their welcoming atmosphere and local flavors. Dining here is informal and centered around comfort food suited to the rugged environment.
Getting Around
Getting to McCarthy typically involves flying into nearby airports such as in Glennallen or taking a long drive on the rough McCarthy Road from Chitina. Small bush planes are a common way to reach the town. Within McCarthy, walking is the primary mode of transport due to the small size and limited roads. Off-road vehicles and bicycles are used for exploring surrounding areas. Visitors should prepare for limited public transport and plan accordingly.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is summer when the weather is milder and access roads are open. Pack warm, layered clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots. Respect local customs and the fragile environment. Safety tips include preparing for wildlife encounters and carrying emergency supplies. Cash is preferred as card payment options may be limited. Cell service is sparse, so plan communication ahead.
Culture & Customs
McCarthy’s culture is shaped by its mining history and remote Alaskan wilderness lifestyle. Residents value self-reliance, friendliness, and respect for nature. Social gatherings often center around community events and seasonal festivals celebrating local heritage. Visitors should be mindful of the quiet, close-knit community atmosphere and practice Leave No Trace principles when exploring. Politeness and patience are appreciated given the town’s limited resources.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..