22 Activities
Anchorage to McCarthy: Into the Wild
Starts from
Anchorage
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Activities
22
Duration
4 days
Length
662 mi
Route details
Starts from
Anchorage
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Duration
4 days
Length
662 mi
- History and Culture
- Unusual Locations
- Adventure
Bailey Berg
Travel Expert
- Explore superlative peaks.
- Spend time in some of Alaska's most endearing small towns.
- Hike on a glacier.
Translated by
There's only one way to get to McCarthy—it's by following the long, bumpy, unpaved McCarthy Road. It's slow going (especially if you've come all the way from Anchorage), but it's worth it. Why? Because McCarthy is the Alaska of your dreams. Situated in the middle of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest National Park in the United States (it's roughly the size of Switzerland), there's room to explore.
Due to the uniqueness of some locations for overnight stays, you can book the recommended hotels along the route via links mentioned in the comments.
Due to the uniqueness of some locations for overnight stays, you can book the recommended hotels along the route via links mentioned in the comments.
Translated by
Categories
- History and Culture
- Unusual Locations
- Adventure
There's only one way to get to McCarthy—it's by following the long, bumpy, unpaved McCarthy Road. It's slow going (especially if you've come all the way from Anchorage), but it's worth it. Why? Because McCarthy is the Alaska of your dreams. Situated in the middle of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest National Park in the United States (it's roughly the size of Switzerland), there's room to explore.
Due to the uniqueness of some locations for overnight stays, you can book the recommended hotels along the route via links mentioned in the comments.
Due to the uniqueness of some locations for overnight stays, you can book the recommended hotels along the route via links mentioned in the comments.
Translated by
Bailey Berg
Travel Expert
- Explore superlative peaks.
- Spend time in some of Alaska's most endearing small towns.
- Hike on a glacier.
Translated by
Travel itinerary
5 Activities
Day 1
182 mi
Anchorage to Glennallen: A Road Less Traveled
One of the main reasons McCarthy isn't more visited is because of the drive. From Anchorage, it's long. But don't let that deter you—experiencing McCarthy is worth it. To help make the drive more manageable, today you'll just go to Glennallen (about half way), while stopping at some fun attractions along the way.
5 Activities
Day 2
142 mi
The Long, Winding Road to McCarthy
It's a bit of a haul to McCarthy today, but we promise it's worth it. You'll be traveling along roads that few visitors to the 49th state go, which also means there isn't much infrastructure along the way. Be sure to stock up on snacks and enjoy the ride.
6 Activities
Day 3
9 mi
Exploring One of Alaska's Most Interesting Towns
Finally, a full day in McCarthy. Here you'll find superlative peaks that have never been climbed, rivers that have yet to see a pack rafter, and trees that have only witnessed moose, bears, and porcupines. You'll also find a town of warm, albeit quirky locals and some surprisingly stellar eateries, especially considering the year-round population could fit in a shuttle bus.
6 Activities
Day 4
328 mi
Back To Anchorage We Go
Parting is hard, we know. But you have a long road back to Anchorage today, so you best be getting a move on. Don't worry, we've zeroed in on some fun stops to make on the way.