Embark on a transformative 5-day/4-night adventure to the largest national park in the United States. Our itinerary includes 2-nights at a historic lodge near the northern boundary of Wrangell St. Elias National Park & Preserve and a 3-day/2-night backpacking excursion.
About the backpacking (nights 2 and 3):
This is moderately challenging to strenuous trip for most hikers. Participants can expect to hike 6-9 miles per day with an elevation gain and/or loss of up to 3,000 feet. Most of our hike will take place in the lush tundra, providing spectacular panoramic views, marmot sightings, and wildflowers. If we’re lucky we’ll be able to spot dall sheep and caribou.
You can check out our backpacking route here. Please note this itinerary is subject to change while in the field. The intended route is a ‘route’ not a maintained trail.
Total hiking distance: About 24 miles, expect to hike 6-9 miles per day, off-trail
Total elevation: Gain of about 3,000' and loss of about 3,000'
Max elevation: About 6,000'
Participants should have the ability to carry 25-40lbs. across uneven terrain. Hikers will sleep two to a three-person tent unless single tent accommodation is requested. Meals during backcountry travel will generally be dehydrated, packaged meals (this helps reduce pack weight). We can accommodate most dietary requests and restrictions.
Please understand our itinerary may change ahead of trip departure and/or while we are in the field.
About the lodge (nights 1 and 4):
Owners Michael and Victoria Rego have been pouring their heart and soul into the lodge since 2018. Michael is a lifelong rural Alaskan whose experience and appreciation for this place runs deep, from helping his dad grow summer gardens above the Copper River every year and riding his bike down to hook into the legendary king salmon, he has spent countless hours on the land and enjoys sharing what he has learned with friends and travelers. He is also the engineer behind this operation and ensures reliable, continuous heat, power, water, and connectivity year-round. Victoria achieved her lifelong dream of working as an archaeologist in Alaska nearly 20 years ago and has called the place home ever since. Together, they are raising their children in one of the most beautiful wild places on earth, where the labors of their hands provide sustenance year-round and make this unique opportunity for guests possible.
Trip fees:
Scholarships for locals:
Live here in Alaska? We offer a reduced rate for locals and Adventure Club members; however, we realize trip fees can sometimes be a barrier to participation. If you're a local interested in applying for a scholarship, you can do so here.