Discover the Echoes of History with the Kennecott Mines Ghost Town
Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Alaskan wilderness with the enchanting Kennecott Mines Ghost Town Tour. This captivating journey through time is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. As you wander through the well-preserved remnants of one of America’s most lucrative copper mines, you’ll find yourself transported back to the early 20th century, all while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
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Location of Kennecott Mines Ghost Town in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Nestled within the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States, Kennecott Ghost Town holds a remarkable place in Alaska’s rich history. The park itself sprawls across southcentral Alaska, encompassing a vast swath of wilderness that stretches to the edge of the Canadian border.
Traveling to Kennecott Mines Ghost Town
The journey to embark on the Kennecott Ghost Town Tour begins with a flight to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. From there, it’s approximately a 314-mile drive to McCarthy, the nearest town. The final 5 miles of the journey to Kennecott will have to be completed on foot or by a shuttle bus, as private vehicles aren’t allowed past this point.
For those seeking a more scenic route, bush planes from Anchorage to McCarthy are also an option, providing breathtaking views of the Alaskan wilderness.
Best Time to Embark on the Kennecott Mines Ghost Town Tour
The ideal time to visit Kennecott Ghost Town in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, you can expect moderate temperatures, generally ranging between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. These months also offer longer daylight hours, allowing ample time to explore the ghost town and its surrounding attractions.
As with any popular destination, expect higher crowd levels during the peak summer months. However, the expansive nature of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park ensures there’s always plenty of wilderness to explore.
Local Attractions and Hiking Trails
Root Glacier Trail
Just 4 miles away from Kennecott Ghost Town, the Root Glacier Trail offers a moderate hike with an elevation gain of 500 feet. This 8-mile round trip hike provides stunning views of the Root Glacier and the surrounding majestic mountains, making it a favorite among visitors.
Erie Mine Trail
For a more challenging trek, the Erie Mine Trail is an intriguing option. It is a strenuous 8-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of 2,800 feet. The trailhead starts in Kennecott and leads to the remains of the Erie Mine, offering an insight into the area’s mining history.
Photo Opportunities
Mill Building at Kennecott Mines Ghost Town
The iconic red Mill Building in the Kennecott Ghost Town, standing tall against the backdrop of verdant mountains and clear blue skies, is a photographer’s dream. This 14-story structure is a testament to the area’s rich mining history and provides a stark contrast to the surrounding natural beauty.
Root Glacier
The icy blue expanse of the Root Glacier offers another stunning photo opportunity. Whether you capture the radiant morning sun reflecting off the glacier or the surreal beauty of the midnight sun, these images will surely be memorable highlights of your Kennecott Ghost Town Tour.
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Where to Stay
Staying in or near Wrangell-St. Elias National Park provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the spectacular Alaskan wilderness. There are several campgrounds within the park boundaries, which can be found on Recreation.gov. Kendesnii Campground and Nabesna Road Campsites are two of the most popular options. Both offer basic amenities and are conveniently located near hiking trails and other attractions.
For those who prefer a little more comfort, there are various lodging options available nearby on AirBNB and VRBO. You can find everything from rustic cabins and cottages to comfortable vacation rentals. If you’re travelling in an RV, consider staying at a KOA Campground near the park.
Dining Options
While dining options within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park are limited, there are several places to eat in the nearby towns of McCarthy and Kennecott. The McCarthy Lodge serves up hearty Alaskan fare, while the Kennecott Glacier Lodge offers a buffet-style dining room with stunning views. For grocery needs, the Wrangell-St. Elias News in McCarthy is the place to go.
Travel Tips & Safety
When planning your visit to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, it’s essential to pack the proper gear. This includes durable hiking boots, layered clothing, rain gear, and a hat for sun protection. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. If you’re planning to camp, a high-quality tent, sleeping bag, and cooking equipment are a must.
The park is very family-friendly, with plenty of activities suitable for kids. However, pets are only allowed on certain trails and must be on a leash at all times. Be aware of the risks of altitude sickness and flash floods, particularly if you’re planning to hike or camp in the park’s higher elevations. Lastly, don’t forget to check if you need any permits for camping, hiking, or other activities in the park.
Latest Park Alerts
Before visiting Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, it’s crucial to check the latest NPS alerts for information about weather, trail closures, wildfire risks, and road conditions. You can find this information on the official alerts page: https://www.nps.gov/wrst/planyourvisit/conditions.htm.
Get Involved
Interested in giving back to the park? Consider volunteering! There are many opportunities available, including trail work, visitor programs, and citizen science projects. Volunteering is a wonderful way to contribute to the preservation of this incredible park while gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for its natural and cultural history. To learn more about volunteering at Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, visit: https://www.nps.gov/wrst/getinvolved/volunteer.htm.
We hope this guide helps you plan your visit to the magnificent Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Don’t forget to follow us for more up-to-date National Park content!