McCarthy Travel Guide

Plan your trip to McCarthy, Alaska with this comprehensive travel guide - from natural attractions to local customs and culture.


Introduction to McCarthy

Located in the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, McCarthy is a small town in Southcentral Alaska known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique culture. Originally a bustling mining town in the early 1900s, McCarthy has since evolved into a popular tourist destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and an authentic Alaskan experience.

Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, camping, or sightseeing, McCarthy has something for everyone. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the top attractions and activities in the area.

List of Places to Visit in McCarthy

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark Once a thriving copper mining community, Kennecott Mines is now an important historical site that offers an in-depth look at the town’s rich mining heritage. Visitors can take guided tours of the old mines, explore the abandoned buildings, and learn about the town’s history at the visitor center.

  • McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum Located in downtown McCarthy, this small museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that chronicles the town’s history. Guided tours are available, and visitors can learn about the town’s past through photographs, historical documents, and personal accounts from longtime residents.

Natural Attractions of McCarthy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wrangell-St. Elias National Park As the largest national park in the United States, Wrangell-St. Elias offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Visitors can hike on the numerous trails that crisscross the park, go rafting on the Kennicott River, or take a flight-seeing tour to see the park from the air.

  • Root Glacier Located just outside McCarthy, the Root Glacier is a must-see attraction for nature lovers. Visitors can hike on the glacier, explore the crevasses, and experience the otherworldly beauty of this natural wonder.

  • Donoho Lakes For a more relaxed outdoor experience, head to Donoho Lakes. The two lakes are surrounded by alpine meadows and towering peaks, and visitors can fish, canoe, or simply enjoy the scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of McCarthy

McCarthy offers a variety of hiking and biking trails for all skill levels. Some popular routes include:

  • Kennicott Glacier Trail This moderate trail takes hikers to the edge of the Kennicott Glacier, offering stunning views of the glacier, the surrounding peaks, and the valley below.

  • Bonanza Mine Trail This steep trail leads hikers to an abandoned mining site with panoramic views of the area. The trail is not for the faint of heart, but the views are well worth the effort.

  • McCarthy Road For a leisurely bike ride, head down the McCarthy Road. This gravel road stretches for 60 miles and offers spectacular views of the mountains, glaciers, and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in McCarthy: Activities and Tours

  • Flight-Seeing Tours Take a flight-seeing tour of the park to see the glaciers, mountains, and wildlife from the air. Many tour operators offer custom tours that can be tailored to your interests and preferences.

  • Rafting on the Kennicott River For adrenaline-seekers, rafting on the Kennicott River is a must-do activity. The river flows through the heart of the park and offers thrilling rapids and stunning views.

  • Fishing With numerous rivers, lakes, and streams in the area, fishing is a popular activity in McCarthy. Visitors can fish for salmon, trout, and other freshwater species, and many local guides offer fishing tours and lessons.

Week-Long Itinerary for McCarthy

Day 1: Explore Downtown McCarthy and visit the McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum Day 2: Hike the Kennicott Glacier Trail and go flight-seeing over the park Day 3: Raft on the Kennicott River and have a picnic lunch at Donoho Lakes Day 4: Take a guided tour of Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark Day 5: Bike the McCarthy Road and have lunch at a local restaurant Day 6: Hike the Bonanza Mine Trail and explore the Root Glacier Day 7: Enjoy a leisurely day in McCarthy, exploring local shops and cafes

Food and Drink Scene of McCarthy

Must-Try Dishes

  • Freshly Caught Salmon McCarthy is located in the heart of Alaska’s salmon country, and visitors can taste the freshest salmon in local restaurants. Try grilled salmon with a side of fresh vegetables for a healthy and delicious meal.

  • Reindeer Sausage As a popular local delicacy, reindeer sausage can be found in many restaurants and cafes around McCarthy. It’s a unique twist on traditional sausage and has a rich and flavorful taste.

Local Beverages

  • Alaskan Craft Beer With a thriving craft beer scene, Alaska has many local breweries that offer unique and flavorful beers. Many local bars and restaurants in McCarthy carry Alaskan craft beers, so be sure to try some during your visit.

  • Blueberry Wine Made from fresh wild blueberries, Alaskan blueberry wine is a delicious and unique local beverage that can be found at local wineries and gift shops.

Where to Stay in McCarthy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Ma Johnson’s Hotel Located in the heart of McCarthy, Ma Johnson’s hotel offers comfortable and cozy rooms with a charming rustic decor. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar on-site, serving delicious local cuisine.

  • McCarthy Lodge This historic lodge offers comfortable rooms and cabins with stunning views of the mountains and glaciers. The lodge has a restaurant and bar on-site, and guests can enjoy daily guided tours of the park.

  • Hostels and Guesthouses For budget-conscious travelers, McCarthy has several hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable accommodation options. These options often include shared rooms and common areas for socializing with other travelers.

What to Buy in McCarthy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Alaskan Jewelry Many local artisan shops and gift stores in McCarthy sell handmade jewelry that showcases Alaska’s natural resources. Look for pieces that use natural stones, fossils, and other local materials.

  • Alaskan Books and Literature Alaska has a rich history and unique culture, and visitors can learn more about the state by purchasing books and literature on local history, art, and literature.

Local Culture and Customs of McCarthy

  • Respect for Nature Alaska is a beautiful and rugged place, and visitors are expected to respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles and minimizing their impact on the local ecosystem.

  • Community Spirit McCarthy is a small town, and residents are known for their strong sense of community and hospitality towards visitors. Visitors should embrace this local culture by being friendly, respectful, and open to new experiences.

Best Time to Visit McCarthy

The best time to visit McCarthy is in the summer months, from late May to early September. During this time, the weather is mild, with long days and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rain and cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations.

Do’s and Don’ts of McCarthy

Do:

  • Do explore the natural beauty of the area by hiking, biking, or rafting
  • Do respect the local customs and traditions of the community
  • Do bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor adventures

Don’t:

  • Don’t approach wildlife or disturb their natural habitats
  • Don’t litter or leave trash in the park
  • Don’t ignore safety guidelines and warnings from local authorities

Safety and Health

Safety in McCarthy

McCarthy is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Some tips include:

  • Be bear aware and carry bear spray
  • Follow trail markers and stay on designated trails
  • Check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out

Health in McCarthy

Visitors to Alaska should be aware of the risk of exposure to diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and West Nile virus. It’s important to practice good hygiene and wear protective clothing when spending time outdoors. Visitors should also be aware of the risks of altitude sickness if hiking at high elevations.

Getting to McCarthy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near McCarthy

  • McCarthy Airport Located just south of McCarthy, this small airport offers daily flights from Anchorage and other nearby towns.

  • Cordova Municipal Airport Located about 100 miles from McCarthy, Cordova Municipal Airport offers daily flights from Anchorage and Seattle.

Bus Stations Near McCarthy

  • Slana Mercantile Located about 30 miles from McCarthy, Slana Mercantile offers bus service to and from Anchorage and other nearby towns.

Other Options

  • Private Car McCarthy can also be reached by car, but visitors should be aware that the McCarthy Road is a gravel road that can be difficult to navigate and requires a reliable vehicle with good clearance.

How to Get Around in McCarthy

Most of McCarthy’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas can rent bikes or take guided tours that offer transportation to nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from McCarthy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Valdez Located on the coast of the Prince William Sound, Valdez is known for its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and unique history.

  • Anchorage As the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and entertainment.

Conclusion

McCarthy is a charming and unique destination that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, McCarthy has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the best of Alaska’s Southcentral region.