Backcountry Trek: Mt. Wrangell Plateau to Nugget Creek
Distance: 49 miles
Difficulty: Very strenuous/advanced
Approx. hiking time: 7-10 days
Total elevation gain: +10,577, -13,341
Best season: Mid July - early September
Access: Bush flight - McCarthy, or Gulkana Mt. Wrangell Plateau
Maps: USGS Valdez C-2, D-1, McCarthy C-8, D-8
Challenges: Stream crossings, glacier crossings, serious route finding, extended bushwhacking, rock/moraine.
An extended journey that defines rugged, remote trekking in the Wrangells. This is an extremely demanding trip through dramatic terrain. This route will take you through some of the most impressive country in the Wrangell range – across glaciers, up and over three high ridges and through some very demanding and stunning terrain. The route features impressive views of Mt. Blackburn, Mt. Drum Mt. Wrangell and more.
Don't try this one on unless you have some solid Alaskan, backcountry experience.
Elevation Profile
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 the Mt. Wrangell/Skyscraper Traverse in Alaska's Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.