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Shamrock Mining Plan of Operations and Environmental Assessment Released for Public Review/Comment
The Park has released for public review the Shamrock Mining Plan of Operations and Environmental Assessment. The EA is available for public review and comment for one month. All comments must be submitted by July 3, 2013. More »
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Chisana River Fire Grows, Impacts the Copper River Valley
Smoke from the Chisana River Fire impacted the Copper River basin on the evening of July 18. Because the fire continues to grow anticipate varying levels of smoke impacting the area. The fire grew from 7,718 acres on June 17 to 25,566 acres. More »
The McCarthy Road
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Alaskan Adventure! The 60-mile McCarthy road offers Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve visitors a unique opportunity to explore interior Alaska. Natural and historic wonders await those visitors willing to accept travel and access on Alaskan terms. 
McCarthy Road Map
Getting There is Half the Fun! Driving this road is an Alaskan adventure! Although regularly maintained by the State of Alaska, the gravel surface makes for slow travel-it usually takes three hours each way. Other hazards can make it even longer: heavy rain can make the road muddy and slippery; sharp rocks can cause flat tires; narrow and one-lane bridges make maneuvering large vehicles difficult. In fact, large vehicles are not recommended. Under normal summer conditions, most two-wheel drive vehicles can make the trip without difficulty, but be sure to carry at least one spare tire and an adequate jack. At the end of the road, you will find parking areas and two foot bridges that cross the Kennicott River and lead to McCarthy and Kennecott. Access to McCarthy is by foot, bike, or shuttle. The McCarthy road provides access to interesting geology, great hiking, fishing, and camping, as well as the wonderful historic communities of McCarthy and Kennecott. |
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Kennecott Mines
Geologic Guide to the McCarthy Road
How Are The Park Roads?
Did You Know?
The 300-mile long Copper River, with an average fall of 12 feet per mile and average current of 7 MPH, is estimated to discharge 61,000 cubic feet of water per second during the summer months.