Flying Above the Glaciers in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska
If you’re looking for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure, few experiences can compare to flying above the glaciers in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. It’s one of the most remote and rugged corners of Alaska, and there’s no better way to experience its beauty than from the skies. This park is often overlooked by travelers, yet it holds some of the most stunning landscapes in the world—glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and untamed wilderness. So, if you ever find yourself in Alaska, make sure to add glacier flightseeing to your list.
What Makes Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Special
Size and Significance
Wrangell-St. Elias is the largest national park in the United States, stretching over a massive 13 million acres. It’s not just big in size but also in its natural and historical significance. The park is the meeting point of two of Alaska’s largest mountain ranges: the Saint Elias and the Wrangell ranges. With towering peaks, deep valleys, glaciers, and incredible wildlife, it’s a place that truly represents the wild heart of Alaska.
Unique Features of the Park
One of the most appealing aspects of the park is its vast wilderness. It’s home to an impressive array of glaciers, including hanging glaciers, icefields, and valley glaciers. The park also boasts diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to alpine tundra, and is teeming with wildlife. Whether you’re hoping to spot bears, mountain goats, or caribou, the park has no shortage of opportunities for wildlife viewing.
The Best Way to Explore the Park
While you can hike and drive through parts of the park, there’s one experience you absolutely can’t miss: glacier flightseeing. From the sky, you’ll get a perspective that simply isn’t possible on the ground. It’s a chance to see the full extent of the glaciers, icefields, and rugged landscapes that make this park so special.
Getting to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Accessing the Park: Roads and Remote Towns
There are only two roads that lead into Wrangell-St. Elias, both of which are gravel and somewhat rough. However, they are still passable by most vehicles, unlike Denali National Park, where access is limited to just 15 miles by road. The main route into the park is McCarthy Road, which passes through breathtaking forest landscapes and offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. The towns of McCarthy and Kennecott are the main entry points for visitors.
A Look at McCarthy and Kennecott
Both McCarthy and Kennecott have a fascinating history. Kennecott was once a bustling copper mining town, where wealthy investors like J.P. Morgan and the Guggenheims made millions in the early 20th century. Today, the town is largely abandoned, though some parts are being restored by the National Park Service. Visiting these towns is like stepping back in time, with their old red buildings, mining equipment, and abandoned structures.
Booking a Glacier Flightseeing Tour
Choosing the Right Company
When booking a flightseeing tour, Wrangell Mountain Air is one of the most popular companies in the area. They offer a variety of flightseeing options that take you deep into the heart of the park. Be sure to book your flight in advance, as slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
What to Expect During the Flight
A glacier flightseeing tour is not just about the views; it’s an adventure. Your pilot will navigate through valleys and mountain passes, giving you an unparalleled view of the glaciers and icefields below. It’s a thrilling ride that provides plenty of opportunities for photos and awe-inspiring moments.
The Glacier Flightseeing Experience
The Journey Through the Mountains and Valleys
As your plane soars above Wrangell-St. Elias, you’ll fly through valleys and past waterfalls, with the snow-capped peaks of the Saint Elias and Wrangell ranges in the distance. The flight takes you into some of the most remote and rugged parts of the park, where few people have ever ventured. The glaciers stretch for miles below, their icy blue surfaces sparkling in the sun.
Aerial Views of Glaciers and Icefields
One of the highlights of the flight is the glacier landscape. From above, you can see the full scale of the glaciers—some of which have ice caves and deep cracks in their surface. You’ll also fly over vast icefields, where the ice spreads out like a frozen ocean, with mountains rising dramatically in the background.
The Thrill of Flying Over Remote Wilderness
There’s something incredibly humbling about flying over such untouched wilderness. The vastness of the park, the towering peaks, and the sprawling glaciers below will leave you speechless. It’s a moment that will stay with you forever.
Types of Glaciers in Wrangell-St. Elias
Hanging Glaciers
A hanging glacier is one that clings to the side of a mountain, often suspended high above the valley floor. These glaciers are typically found at the higher elevations of the park, where the cold temperatures allow the ice to remain year-round.
Valley Glaciers
Valley glaciers flow down from the higher mountains into the valleys below. These glaciers often have stunning blue hues and are massive in scale, stretching for miles. Flying over these giants is a surreal experience, as you get to witness the movement of ice in real-time.
Icefields and Rock Glaciers
Icefields are vast, interconnected areas of ice, while rock glaciers are glaciers mixed with debris, such as rocks and dirt. Both types of glaciers are common in Wrangell-St. Elias, and each offers its own unique beauty.
Wildlife Viewing From the Plane
While the glaciers are the main attraction, you’ll also have the chance to see wildlife from the plane. Keep an eye out for mountain goats clinging to rocky cliffs and bears roaming through the valleys below. The best time to spot wildlife is during the summer months when the animals are most active.
Understanding the Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias
The glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias are rapidly retreating due to climate change. As these glaciers melt, they are revealing glacial lakes and new landforms. This rapid change has created a sense of urgency among conservationists and researchers to preserve the park’s natural beauty before it’s lost forever.
Popular Glacier Landmarks to Look Out For
Jumbo Mine
One of the most interesting landmarks in the park is the Jumbo Mine, an old copper mine perched on top of a mountain. The mine is accessible by a strenuous hike, but the reward is worth it: sweeping views of the glaciers and the surrounding wilderness.
Tips for a Successful Glacier Flightseeing Tour
What to Wear and Bring
When you’re flying over glaciers, the temperature can drop, even in summer. Dress in layers, and be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views. Binoculars are also a good idea if you want to spot wildlife.
Dealing with Motion Sickness
If you’re prone to motion sickness, be prepared for some turbulence. The winding valleys and sharp turns can cause discomfort, but the experience is well worth it. Bring along some motion sickness tablets just in case.
Best Time of Year to Go
The best time to go flightseeing is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is generally stable, and the wildlife is most active during this time.
The Future of Glacier Flightseeing
Climate Change and Its Impact on Glaciers
As glaciers continue to melt, glacier flightseeing tours are becoming more important than ever. These tours not only offer a chance to witness the beauty of the glaciers but also help raise awareness about the effects of climate change.
Why Wrangell-St. Elias Should Be On Your Bucket List
Wrangell-St. Elias offers one of the most unforgettable and adventurous ways to explore Alaska. The combination of glacier flightseeing, wildlife viewing, and the chance to explore a vast, untouched wilderness makes this park a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure in Alaska.
Conclusion
Flying over the glaciers in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is an experience you’ll never forget. From the breathtaking views of glaciers and icefields to the opportunity to spot wildlife from the air, this is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Wrangell-St. Elias is an Alaskan treasure, and the best way to experience its raw beauty is from the sky.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to go glacier flightseeing in Wrangell-St. Elias?
- The best time is from June to August, when the weather is stable and wildlife is active.
- How long does a glacier flightseeing tour last?
- Most tours last between 60 to 90 minutes.
- Is glacier flight seeing safe?
- Yes, it is very safe, but it’s important to book with an experienced company and follow the safety instructions provided.
- Can you land on the glaciers during a flightseeing tour?
- Some tours offer the option to land on the glaciers, but it depends on the tour package you choose.
- What wildlife can you see during the flight?
- You might see mountain goats, bears, moose, and caribou while flying over the park.
- You might see mountain goats, bears, moose, and caribou while flying over the park.
