Welcome to McCarthy, Alaska
Curated by Explore McCarthy – Your Basecamp to the Wild Side of Wrangell-St. Elias
From the banks of the Kennicott River to the peaks of the Wrangells, Explore McCarthy is your go-to crew for lodging, local eats, iconic adventures, and insider tips. We’ve brought together our favorite places to stay, explore, and relax — from glacier-side grills and cozy cabins to unforgettable rafting trips and glacier hikes.
So if you’re ready to unplug, lean into nature, and immerse yourself in the history, culture, and wild heart of this valley — you’re in the right place.
Let’s explore McCarthy, together.
WHATS INSIDE THE GUIDE
Getting to McCarthy
Your Journey Starts Long Before the Trailhead
By Car: You’ll take the scenic 60-mile McCarthy Road, a former railway bed now turned into a rugged dirt highway. Expect beautiful views, the occasional pothole, and about 2–3 hours of gravel driving from Chitina. Most local rental agencies (like Midnight Sun Car Rental) offer options that allow McCarthy travel — always check first.
By Plane: Wrangell Mountain Air offers regular flights from Chitina into McCarthy — and the view is unforgettable.
By Shuttle or Charter: Don’t feel like driving? Book a seat on a scheduled shuttle or private charter through services like Kennicott Shuttle or Interior Alaska Bus Lines.
Pro Tip: No need to top off your gas before hitting McCarthy — we have fuel on-site at our As the Glacier Melts Cafe.
What to Expect
This is the wild edge of Alaska — come ready to unplug.
McCarthy isn’t just remote — it’s refreshingly off-grid. Internet is limited, cell service is spotty, and that's the beauty of it. You’re here to reconnect with nature, not notifications.
Slow Down: The pace is intentionally relaxed. Locals take their time, and so should you.
Be Prepared: Bring extra medications, a flashlight, and layers — weather changes fast and medical access is limited.
Say Hi: Locals are friendly, and everyone waves here. Don’t be surprised if a stranger helps you find a trailhead or recommends their favorite hike.
Remember: This is a place that runs on relationships — from the grill to the glacier, we take care of our neighbors, and that includes you.
Packing Tips
Don’t overthink it — but don’t under prepare either.
McCarthy is remote, wild, and worth every ounce of preparation.
Layer Like a Pro: Weather in the Wrangells can change in a heartbeat. Temps often swing 30°F in a day, so pack lightweight, breathable layers — think fleece, wool, and a waterproof shell. Even in July, you’ll want a beanie and gloves.
Footwear Matters: Bring sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes or boots you don’t mind getting muddy. Bonus points for sandals with good grip (great for creek crossings or campground lounging)
Fuel Up Here: No need to detour — Kennicott River Lodge offers gas on-site. That’s one less thing to worry about on the way in or out.
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Adventures & Tours
Explore McCarthy offers more than just places to stay. We’re also your launchpad for once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
Kennicott Glacier Lake & River Rafting
Float next to a 25-mile-long glacier. Paddle through hidden ice canyons. Jump (safely) into glacier water wearing a drysuit! All private, guide-led trips tailored to your pace and interests
Root Glacier Hikes
Traverse blue ice, crevasses, and melt pools. Learn glacier travel with real crampon instruction. Begin with a historic walking tour through Kennicott.
Kennicott Lake Kayak Tours
Paddle among icebergs on a lake that didn’t exist 30 years ago. View geology and glacial history in action. Great for beginners and families.
Alaska Float & Fly
Cover over 17 miles of river on this private excursion through the Kennicott, Nizina, and Chitina rivers — from splashy Class III whitewater to calm stretches rich with wildlife and canyon views. After a riverside lunch and time to explore the wild shoreline, your day ends with a bush plane pickup and scenic flight back over the Kennicott Valley.
All trips are run by McCarthy River Tours — the most experienced wilderness guides in the valley.