Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve

Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve is located in southeastern Alaska, USA. The park spans a vast 13.2 million acres, making it the largest national park in the United States. It is bordered by Canada to the east and sits near the towns of McCarthy, Chitina, and Copper Center. The park was established in 1980 as part of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. It protects some of the most rugged, untouched wilderness in the world, encompassing four major mountain ranges: the Wrangell, St. Elias, Chugach, and the eastern section of the Alaska Range. Several peaks, such as Mount St. Elias, rise to over 18,000 feet, making this park a haven for mountaineers and adventurers. Parking facilities at the park are limited due to the remoteness and wild nature of the area. The main entry points are McCarthy Road and Nabesna Road, which have designated parking areas at their ends. There is no entrance fee, but parking can be challenging during peak season. The park recommends that visitors be prepared for rough roads. Wrangell–St. Elias teems with wildlife, including iconic species like grizzly bears, Dall sheep, moose, caribou, wolves, and mountain goats. It’s also home to a diverse range of birds, including bald eagles and golden eagles, as well as marine life along its coastline. The flora includes extensive boreal forests with species like white spruce, aspen, and birch, along with tundra vegetation at higher elevations. Wildflowers such as fireweed paint the landscape in vibrant colors during summer. Notable features include the Kennicott Glacier, the historic Kennicott Mines, and vast wilderness areas. Public transportation to the park is nearly non-existent, so visitors generally rely on private vehicles or guided tours to access this remote wilderness. Air charters are also a popular means of entry.