Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

For travelers exploring North America, few places capture the raw beauty of the wilderness in the same way. This park offers an unfiltered connection to the natural world, and even yacht charter visitors seeking time on land will find it rewarding. With a landscape larger than many countries, Wrangell-St. Elias invites exploration at every turn.

The park is home to some of the tallest peaks in Alaska, including Mount St. Elias at 18,008 feet. Here, mountain ranges rise dramatically, and massive glaciers spill into valleys below. The Bagley Icefield, stretching over 120 miles, is one of the largest outside the polar regions, a sight best experienced from the air.

Scenic flights offer a perspective that ground travel simply cannot match. From above, visitors from Alaska yacht charters take in endless snowfields, rugged summits, and the meeting point of ice and forest. On clear days, the scale of Wrangell-St. Elias feels almost beyond comprehension.

Beyond natural wonders, the park also carries a story of human resilience. The historic towns of McCarthy and Kennecott give insight into the copper mining era of the early 1900s. Wooden structures from that time still stand, overlooking the icy landscape, reminding visitors of those who worked and lived in this challenging environment.

Today, guided tours bring these stories to life. Walking through the old mill buildings, visitors gain a sense of both the hardships and determination of the people who once called this remote place home.

Wrangell-St. Elias is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails range from short, easy walks to demanding backcountry routes. Glacier trekking and ice climbing appeal to those on USA yacht charters looking for adrenaline, while rafting trips along wild rivers provide a different perspective of the park.

Wildlife is another highlight. Moose, bears, Dall sheep, and mountain goats roam the park, offering plenty of chances for sightings. Birdwatchers can also spot golden eagles, falcons, and migratory species in season.

Reaching Wrangell-St. Elias feels like an adventure in itself. The park has two main roads, McCarthy Road and Nabesna Road, that cut into the wilderness. Both provide access to trailheads, camping areas, and incredible viewpoints. For those who prefer a quicker journey, small bush planes connect visitors to otherwise unreachable corners of the park.

Despite its scale and remoteness, the park is surprisingly accessible for those willing to take the trip. Each mode of travel adds to the sense of discovery that defines a visit here.

Wrangell-St. Elias offers a remarkable stop for North America yacht charter itineraries. After days at sea, stepping into this vast wilderness creates a balance of adventure that combines both ocean and mountain. It is the kind of destination that leaves a lasting impression long after the journey ends.

To include Wrangell-St. Elias in a wider yacht charter itinerary through Alaska, speak to a knowledgeable yacht charter broker who can help design a journey that blends coastal exploration with time in one of North America’s most awe-inspiring national parks.