McCarthy Creek Trail

The trail begins right in downtown McCarthy. You'll cross McCarthy Creek via a small footbridge, then climb a bank to a gravel road where the trail officially starts after a steep switchback. Parking is typically available in McCarthy, but specific parking areas may vary, so it's best to check local signage upon arrival.

The provided information does not explicitly state regulations regarding dogs on the McCarthy Creek Trail. As it's located within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, it's always recommended to check the current pet policies on the official NPS website before your visit.

The trail is generally accessible during the warmer months. While specific seasonal conditions aren't detailed, the presence of potential floods and high water levels in McCarthy Creek suggests that late spring through early fall would be the most favorable time, avoiding snowmelt and heavy rain periods. Always check local conditions before heading out.

There are no entrance fees to enter Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve. However, if you plan on extended backcountry trips or specific activities, it's always wise to consult the National Park Service website for any specific permit requirements that might apply to your plans.

The McCarthy Creek Trail is generally rated as difficult, though some sections are considered moderate or even easy for a mellow walk. The terrain is diverse: it starts with a footbridge and a climb to a gravel road, then primarily follows the McCarthy Creek Trail creekbed. Be prepared for potential washouts, especially after heavy rains, and sections where the river may have eroded the path, requiring you to walk over slumps. The initial miles are a historic, relatively flat road.

You'll start near the McCarthy Town Center. Along the way, you can expect pretty views and a sense of solitude as you follow the creek through a verdant forest. A distinctive feature is an original mining-era tunnel, which you can pass through if you choose to cross the river further upstream. The trail itself is a historic route once used by prospectors.

Hikers should be aware of several hazards. Frequent washouts can alter the trail, and the river may erode sections, requiring detours. Creek crossings can be treacherous, especially when water levels are high; good judgment is essential, and turning back if conditions are unsafe is advised. The area is also bear country, so making noise and carrying bear spray are recommended precautions.

This trail offers a unique blend of history and wilderness. You can expect a sense of solitude and spectacular scenery within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. The initial miles are relatively straightforward, offering a mellow walk, but the further you go, the more challenging and remote the experience becomes, potentially involving route finding and bushwhacking.

Yes, you can extend your hike, but it becomes significantly more challenging. The trail officially ends at the river near an old cabin. To continue, you must decide whether to cross the river, which can be dangerous at high water. Further upstream, the path may become overgrown and difficult to follow, requiring bushwhacking and route finding. Be aware that private property exists in the upper reaches of the McCarthy Creek drainage.

Given the trail's difficulty and potential hazards, you should bring sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, navigation tools (map, compass, or GPS), and appropriate layers for changing weather. Due to bear country, bear spray is highly recommended. Be prepared for potential river crossings or wet conditions, and consider trekking poles for stability.

Yes, the route primarily follows the McCarthy Creek Trail, which makes up a significant portion of the route. It also passes through sections of the Kennicott Road and crosses the Kennicott River Bridge.