Itinerary · 2 days · Alaska
2 Days in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park: The Perfect Itinerary
Two days is enough to see the best of Wrangell–St. Elias National Park without rushing. Here is the day-by-day plan, built around the park's highlights.
Best time to go: Jun–Aug. Closest major airport: Anchorage (ANC), about 7 hours by road to McCarthy.
Day 1: The icons
- Morning: Tour the Kennecott Mill Town. Start early to beat the crowds.
- Afternoon: Hike onto the Root Glacier.
- Evening: Drive the McCarthy Road.
Day 2: Go deeper
- Morning: Take a flightseeing trip over the peaks.
- Afternoon: Explore the Nabesna Road.
The McCarthy Road is 60 miles of gravel. Check whether your rental car contract allows it, or take the shuttle.
When to go
The best time to visit Wrangell–St. Elias National Park is June–August.
Best time to visit Wrangell–St. Elias, month by month · What to pack
Questions
How many days do you need in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park?
Two full days covers the highlights: tour the kennecott mill town and hike onto the root glacier on day one, then take a flightseeing trip over the peaks on day two. Add a third day if you want a long backcountry hike or a slow morning.
When is the best time for this Wrangell–St. Elias itinerary?
Go in Jun–Aug, when the park is rated at its best. June through August offer the best balance of good conditions and smaller crowds.
Can you do Wrangell–St. Elias in one day?
You can see the highlights in one very full day by doing day one below and skipping day two, but you will miss take a flightseeing trip over the peaks. Two days is the sweet spot.