Gateway Town

McCarthy

Gateway Town

Historic hamlet at Root Glacier and mining site; accessible by rough road, shuttle, or plane. Summer only. Extreme remoteness, limited services.

Quick facts

Town Type
hamlet
Population
107
Best Known For
Root Glacier access and Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark; preserved copper-mining and railway heritage from the early 20th century
About This Town
McCarthy is a historic 107-person hamlet inside Wrangell-St. Elias, 17 km west of the park center. It sits on the original corridor of the Copper River and Northwestern Railway and serves as the gateway to Root Glacier and Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark. Access is via the rough McCarthy Road from Chitina, shuttle services, or small aircraft; all services operate mid-May through mid-September only.

Town overview

Town Type
hamlet
Population
107
Best Known For
Root Glacier access and Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark; preserved copper-mining and railway heritage from the early 20th century
About This Town
McCarthy is a historic 107-person hamlet inside Wrangell-St. Elias, 17 km west of the park center. It sits on the original corridor of the Copper River and Northwestern Railway and serves as the gateway to Root Glacier and Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark. Access is via the rough McCarthy Road from Chitina, shuttle services, or small aircraft; all services operate mid-May through mid-September only.
What Makes It Special
Only hamlet directly within Wrangell-St. Elias; gateway to Root Glacier and preserved Kennecott mining heritage; accessible only by remote mountain road, shuttle, or small plane

Park access

Distance From Park
17 km west
Shuttle To Park
Backcountry Connections: daily summer runs (907-822-5292); Wrangell-St. Elias Tours: May–Sept (907-822-5978); Wrangell Mountain Air: daily mid-May to mid-September, three times daily (907-554-4411 or 800-478-1160)
Nearest Airport
Gulkana Airport (Ellis Air mail plane service; scheduled flights Wednesday and Friday, seasonal variations)

Where to stay & eat

Hotel Count
1
Bnb Count
0
Lodging Variety
Lodge and hostel options with views of glaciers and mountains
Restaurant Count
2
Restaurant Types
Limited but solid options ranging from casual cafes to lodge dining

Things to do

Main Attractions
Root Glacier (accessible via two-mile hike from Kennicott with guide services), Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark (preserved early 20th-century copper mining and mill town), historic railway heritage
Summer Activities
Hiking to Root Glacier, exploring Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, guided glacier treks, viewing glaciers and mountains, outdoor recreation in the park

Planning advice

Peak Season
May through September
Shoulder Season
September, before facilities close mid-September
Booking Advance
Book accommodations 2–3 months in advance for summer travel; shuttle and air services require advance reservations; check road conditions before driving
Late Night Intel
Most dining ends by 9–10 PM. The Potato opens 9 AM to 7 PM daily. The Golden Saloon serves breakfast 7:30–9:30 AM and dinner 5–10 PM (bar stays open later, kitchen closes at 10 PM). Advance dining reservations recommended due to limited options.
The Vibe
McCarthy is a working historic site, not a resort town. Extremely remote and summer-only, requiring advance planning and expedition mindset. Walkable from the road's end, but the atmosphere is about seeing glaciers and preserved mining heritage, not amenities.
Best Time To Visit
May through September when shuttle and air services operate; park visitor facilities close mid-September through April

More details

Visitor Center Location
Kennecott Visitor Center in Blackburn School, McCarthy Road Information Station, Slana Ranger Station
Winter Scene
Closed. Park visitor facilities and all services shut down mid-September through April.
Insider Tips
  • Check McCarthy Road conditions before driving: (907) 822-5234. Road is notorious for potholes and rough surfaces.
  • Root Glacier accessible via two-mile hike from Kennicott with guide services available.
  • Visitors should come equipped with walking shoes, rain jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  • Advance reservations required for shuttle and air services.
Accessibility
Accessible via McCarthy Road (60 miles, gravel, rough surface from Chitina), shuttle services, or small aircraft; all services summer-only (mid-May through mid-September)
Family Friendly Notes
Remote location suits families interested in history and hiking. Advance booking essential; limited lodging and dining. Visitors should come prepared with sturdy footwear, rain gear, hat, gloves, and sun protection. Road conditions require verification before driving.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is anything open year-round?

No. Visitor facilities and all services close mid-September through April. Plan travel for May–September only.

How rough is the McCarthy Road?

Notorious for potholes, washouts, and railroad spikes. Verify road conditions before driving: (907) 822-5234.

Can I walk around town?

Yes. From the road's end it's 0.5 miles to McCarthy and 5 miles uphill to Kennicott. Walking shoes and preparation essential.

Do I need to book ahead?

Yes. Lodging and shuttle services are extremely limited; book 2–3 months in advance for summer.

Is there a hospital nearby?

No medical facilities in town. Nearest hospital is hours away. Come prepared for self-care.

Can I drive my own car to McCarthy?

Yes, but the McCarthy Road is rough. Shuttle services available if you prefer not to drive.

Kennicott

Historic mining ghost town and National Landmark. 2 lodges, 1 cafe. Book summer early.

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Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.