The Long, Winding Road to McCarthy

Named for two Gold Rush era explorers (Henry Allen and Edwin Glenn), this small town is usually a supply stop on the way to adventures in bush Alaska. It's worth backtracking a bit to grab breakfast and snacks for your drive, as there isn't much until Chitna. As you head on your way out of town, be on the lookout for Mt. Drum. You'll know it by the sheer number of glaciers on it.

Just over 100 people call this tiny town home. It's the last town between you and McCarthy (which is still a few hour's drive over a bumpy, largely unmaintained road), so be sure to fill up on gas and take a bathroom break. Also, see if you can spot any spirits painted onto local buildings. At some point in the '60s or '70s, after the community went from a thriving mining town to a ghost town, the images were splashed across certain buildings. Granted, they're pretty faded now.

You made it! Take a bit of time getting to know this former frontier town. Pop into the handful of stops (including a gift shop, a hiking goods store, and bakery) before grabbing a bite.

Salmon and Bear Restaurant, connected to the McCarthy Lodge, is a perennial favorite spot for bar fare and cold beers. It's also a great spot for people watching. Just be warned, there's no rule against dogs (pets or strays) from entering the restaurant. While they're usually friendly, they might give you "feed me" eyes.

This old-fashioned hotel hasn't changed much since it was constructed in the cooper-boom-era. But that's half its charm. Surer the floorboards creak and the rooms don't have electrical sockets, but the beds are comfortable and the vibe atmospheric. Plan to spend your entire McCarthy stay here.
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