This a challenging, but very affordable, extended backpacking trip in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve that combines the Fosse to Kennicott route with the Oz Traverse (Lakina to Fosse). It traverses some of the most spectacular and varied terrain in the park as you hike through forested river valley, alongside stunning high alpine lakes, across miles wide glaciers beneath the park’s highest peaks and world’s largest icefalls, on delightful wide-open and smooth tundra, up and down challenging ascents and descents, and sleep at some of Alaska’s (and the world’s) finest remote backcountry campsites (that often act as reflecting pool’s for the surrounding high Wrangell peaks).

While this route could be completed by fit and experienced parties in five days, CMI recommends six or more days. A seven day trip should allow for a comfortable pace for most parties with some side trip exploration. This is the recommend trip length to truly enjoy and appreciate such a majestic landscape.

Rates (7 days of backpacking from McCarthy, AK):

• Private Solo (1 person): $5000
• Private Couple (2 people): $3000 each
• Private Group (3-4 people): $2500 each
• Private Group (5-6 people): $2250 each
• Non-Private Group (5-6 people): $2250 each

Sample Itinerary (7-day backpacking trip from McCarthy):

• Pre-trip: Evening meeting in McCarthy for intros, 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 the Lakina River valley, start trekking!
• Days 2-6: Trek, camp, eat, sleep, repeat in sublime wilderness.
• Day 7: Last day of trekking, Kennicott exploration at your leisure, van shuttle back to McCarthy at time of your choosing.

If you want a shorter (but similar fly-in, hike-out) route, check out the Fosse to Kennicott option. If you want to experience two incredible bush flights, but don’t desire as long and demanding of a route; check out the Oz Traverse (Fosse to Lakina). For the most affordable backpacking option (no bush flights) check out the Donoho Wilderness Sampler. For an easy, or family-friendly trip, check out the Fosse Basecamp. View 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.