Wrangell–St. Elias · May · Alaska

Wrangell–St. Elias National Park in May

May is a fair month for Wrangell–St. Elias National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 9°F and lows 1°F, with about 2.94 inches of rain.

May is rated fair at Wrangell–St. Elias. Consider Jun–Aug instead.

Full park guideAll parks in May
RatingFair
CrowdsQuiet
Avg high / low9°F / 1°F
Rain2.94 in

What to expect

Honest take: May is not the month for Wrangell–St. Elias. Roads become passable, but the season hasn't really begun.

Local tip

The McCarthy Road is 60 miles of gravel. Check whether your rental car contract allows it, or take the shuttle.

Good to know

  • Best months overall: Jun–Aug.
  • Closest airport: Anchorage (ANC), about 7 hours by road to McCarthy.
  • Before you go: Many rental car companies prohibit driving the McCarthy Road. Check current conditions on nps.gov.

2-day Wrangell–St. Elias itinerary · Packing list

Questions

Is May a good time to visit Wrangell–St. Elias National Park?

May is a fair month for Wrangell–St. Elias National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 9°F and lows 1°F, with about 2.94 inches of rain.

What is the weather like in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park in May?

Highs average 9°F and lows 1°F, with about 2.94 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.

How crowded is Wrangell–St. Elias National Park in May?

May is one of the quietest months at Wrangell–St. Elias National Park.