A Gem of the Northern Frontier

Nestled among the rugged landscape of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park lies the old frontier town of McCarthy, Alaska. Surrounded by monumental mountains, glaciers, and other incredibly unique landscapes, this once-prosperous mining town has now seen a complete revitalization into a stunning and remote tourist destination. Adventurers and nature enthusiasts looking to hike glaciers, explore defunct copper mines, fly over the park's rugged and beautiful landscape, or simply get away from the bustle of civilization seek out this wilderness oasis. Though the town today is no more than a general store, small rustic lodges, and two or three local restaurants, the buildings and surrounding culture give it a true "frontier town" feeling. The original equipment, which once carried mined and processed copper ore down the mountain, still exists and lends perspective to the town's history of supporting the nearby Kennecott copper mine. Pulling the town together are its people, some of whom have lived here their whole lives, and some who have just stopped up for a weekend. The people, combined with the unparalleled surroundings, give the town an atmosphere that's hard not to fall in love with.