Basic Information

Aerial view of river in deep canyon with mountains in background.
Nizina River and the Mile High Cliffs

NPS Photo- Bryan Petrtyl

 

Visiting Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve can be quite different from a trip to a park in the lower-48. Visitor services are limited, access can be challenging, weather varies widely, and a variety of wildlife can be encountered. Flexibility and patience are required. But the reward is worth the effort. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a true wilderness filled with mountains, glaciers, historic sites, and several living cultures!

Operating Hours and Seasons- While the park is open year-round, operating hours and seasons vary for each of the park's visitor centers. Keep up-to-date by visiting this webpage.

K'elt'aeni- Park newspaper and trip-planning guide includes park maps, information and services and safety tips.

NPS App - Download the app to your phone or device, search for Wrangell-St. Elias, save app for offline use in remote areas of the park.

Backcountry FAQs- Most of the park is backcountry. The park has put together a list of the most asked questions about its use and regulations.

Closures- Occasionally, parts of the park have to be temporary closed and/or restrictions put in place to keep visitors safe and to protect resources.

Directions- Park services and facilities are separated by as much as 260 miles! Some are located outside of the park boundaries. Others are located along one of the only two roads, both unpaved, that enter the park. This webpage will help you find them all!

Fees and Passes- Wrangell-St. Elias is a fee free park! But, if you would like to purchase a pass for parks that do charge a fee, visit this page to discover how.

Permits and Reservations- Permits are needed for several activities including subsistence use, sport hunting and fishing, and off road vehicles. Also, all commercial operations require permits.

Rules and Regulations- In order to protect park resources and to provide visitors with enjoyable experiences, there are rules and regulations that we all must follow.

Stay Safe- With limited cell coverage, read up on how to stay safe in remote areas and what to do if there is a wildlife encounter.

Things To Do- For Kids, Ranger Guided Tours (Interpretive talks, walks, slideshows and demonstrations), Backpacking, Day Hiking, Mountaineering, Floating and Boating, Sport Hunting and Fishing, Wildlife Viewing, Motorized Recreation, Winter Activities, Outfitters and Guides.

Weather- Be prepared for a wide range of conditions. At any one time, temperatures can differ by as much as 70 degrees F across the park!

Accessibility- This page offers services specifically designed to help our visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access to facilities, hearing assistance and vision impairment opportunities.

What's so Special about Wrangell-St. Elias?

 

Last updated: March 18, 2024

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve
PO Box 439
Mile 106.8 Richardson Highway

Copper Center, AK 99573

Phone:

907 822-5234

Contact Us