Backcountry Trek: Doubtful Creek
Distance: 10-13 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Approx. hiking time: 2-4 days
Total elevation gain: +2724, -5647
Best season: July - early September
Access: Bush flight from McCarthy to Wolverine Mt.
Maps: USGS McCarthy C-4
Challenges: Routefinding, bushwhacking, boulder fields, stream crossings
A shorter but demanding route that includes some rugged boulder fields, requiring stamina as well as good route finding skills. This is a good route if you don't have the time for a longer trek but don't want to short yourself on adventure. There are two route variations for this trip - one will require only three days and the other at least four. Once you get to the backside of the Wolverine mesa, it's mostly all downhill.
Even detailed route descriptions such as those found in the book are not a substitute for skills and experience. If you would like to do this route but don't feel that you are ready to tackle the Alaskan wilderness on your own, consider a guided trek.
If you are interested in doing this route as part of a guided trek, click here for more information on guided backpacking treks in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.