Mccarthy Alaska Airport: Gateway To Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

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Mccarthy Alaska Airport, located in the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, is a small but vital gateway to one of the most breathtaking and remote national parks in the United States. As the largest national park in the country, Wrangell-St. Elias offers an unparalleled wilderness experience, with its stunning mountain vistas, vast glaciers, and abundant wildlife.

For visitors seeking to explore this vast and rugged landscape, McCarthy Alaska Airport serves as the primary entry point. The airport provides a convenient and scenic way to access the park, with daily flights from nearby towns and cities. Upon arrival, visitors can choose from a range of accommodations, from cozy lodges to rustic camping sites, and embark on a variety of adventures, including hiking, glacier trekking, and wildlife viewing.

History of McCarthy Alaska Airport

McCarthy Alaska Airport has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Originally built as a mining camp, the airport was later developed to serve the growing tourism industry in the region. Today, the airport is a vital transportation hub, connecting visitors to the park's stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Airport Facilities and Services

McCarthy Alaska Airport offers a range of facilities and services to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience. These include:

• A small terminal building with a waiting area and restrooms
• A cargo handling facility for shipping goods and supplies
• A fueling station for aircraft and vehicles
• A parking area for vehicles and RVs
• A shuttle service to nearby lodges and campgrounds

Things to Do in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its vast wilderness areas, stunning mountain vistas, and abundant wildlife. Some of the top things to do in the park include:

• Hiking and backpacking: With over 13 million acres of wilderness, Wrangell-St. Elias offers endless opportunities for hiking and backpacking.
• Glacier trekking: Explore the park's stunning glaciers, including the famous Kennecott Glacier.
• Wildlife viewing: Spot bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep in their natural habitats.
• Flightseeing: Take a scenic flight over the park's stunning mountains and glaciers.
• Fishing: Try your luck at catching salmon, trout, and char in the park's lakes and streams.

Accommodations and Dining

McCarthy Alaska Airport is surrounded by a range of accommodations, from cozy lodges to rustic camping sites. Some of the top options include:

• McCarthy Lodge: A comfortable lodge with rooms and cabins, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Kennecott Glacier Lodge: A historic lodge located near the Kennecott Glacier, offering rooms and meals.
• Camping: Choose from a range of campsites, including backcountry sites and developed campgrounds.

Getting to McCarthy Alaska Airport

McCarthy Alaska Airport is accessible by air and road. Daily flights are available from nearby towns and cities, including Anchorage and Fairbanks. Visitors can also drive to the airport via the McCarthy Road, which is open during the summer months.

Conclusion

McCarthy Alaska Airport is a vital gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, offering a convenient and scenic way to access this stunning wilderness area. With its range of facilities and services, the airport provides a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a unique adventure, McCarthy Alaska Airport is the perfect starting point for your journey.