The Fosse to Kennicott is one of the most stunning point to point backpacking routes in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, but also one of the most affordable (as it only requires an air taxi on one end). This route traverses some of the most spectacular wilderness on Planet Earth and serves up a variety of terrain: wide open tundra rambling, big glacier crossings with the park’s highest peaks and some of the world’s largest icefalls as backdrop, sublime lakeside camping, hiking across a forested island of land amidst a sea of glacier ice, and plenty of side trip exploration options.

This trip combines Fosse Basecamp and Donoho Wilderness Sampler, with an adventurous glacier crossing linking the two. While this route can be completed by fit and experienced parties in less time, CMI recommends at least four days to enjoy the route. Five or more days will allow for a more relaxed paced and/or side trip exploration.

Rates (5 days of backpacking from McCarthy, AK):

• Private Solo (1 person): $4000
• Private Couple (2 people): $2500 each
• Private Group (3-4 people): $2000 each
• Private Group (5-6 people): $1800 each
• Non-Private Group (5-6 people): $1800 each

Sample Itinerary (5-day backpacking trip from McCarthy):

• Pre-trip: Evening meeting in McCarthy for introductions, trip overview, personal gear check, and distribution of group gear and food (pre-packed in bear-resistant canisters).
• Day 1: Morning rendezvous in McCarthy, bush flight to Fosse, start trekking!
• Days 2-4: Trek, camp, eat, sleep, repeat in sublime wilderness.
• Day 5: Last day of trekking, Kennicott exploration at your leisure, van shuttle back to McCarthy at time of your choosing.

If you want a longer, more varied, and challenging route; check out the Lakina to Kennicott option. It’s an affordable extended trip. If you have a bigger budget, want to experience two incredible bush flights, but don’t desire as long of a route; check out the Fosse to Lakina (Oz Traverse) trip. For an even more affordable backpacking loop (no bush flights) check out the Donoho Wilderness Sampler. For an easy, or family-friendly option, check out Fosse Basecamp. Check out the main Wrangell-St. Elias trip page for even more options.

Booking information available here. Call/text 907-831-9686 or email Info@ChugachSnow.org for inquiries, availability, and reservations. CMI can coordinate all your travel logistics within Alaska.

Experience backpacking in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve with one of Alaska’s most experienced backcountry travelers and guides who has spent more than 2,000 days in the Alaskan wilderness!