Wrangell - St. Elias National Park

MAPS: Nabesna A-1 (1;63,360)

DISTANCE/TIME: There are various day/overnight hikes of different lengths that can be done from the Baultoff airstrip.

ACCESS: Fly in to the 1900' Baultoff airstrip. The length of this airstrip may vary depending on weather conditions and rainfall in a given time frame. Early in the season the lower end of the strip can be quite wet. Air taxi services may be obtained from operators in Tok or Glennallen.

ROUTE: Baultoff airstrip provides access for a variety of day and overnight hikes. Hikes can be made to East Fork Snag Creek, Four Mile Creek, Gravel Creek and up Baultoff Creek itself. Travel is cross country and the footing is usually firm. However, most routes follow creeks and may involve traversing steep scree slopes. All trips are strenuous. There is a trail that goes from the Baultoff airstrip downstream to Braye Lakes and on to Horsfeld Creek. The trails is very wet and tussocky—difficult walking. Two to three days should be allowed for any trip downstream from the airstrip to Braye Lakes, Horsfeld Creek, etc.

POTENTIAL HAZARDS: Some of the ridges are steep shale and difficult to cross. During the spring, creek levels can be low in the morning and impassable by late afternoon. Heavy rainstorms can quickly raise the creek levels. Avalanches can be a problem in some areas during the early spring. Bears may be present in the area. Travel in this area should be done only by experienced parties in good physical condition. One should also be able to read and follow a map and compass. This is a remote area and the hiking is strenuous. Help is not readily available.