Wrangell - St. Elias National Park

MAPS: USGS Quadrangle Maps - Valdez (C-1), McCarthy (C-8) 1:63,360. Valdez, McCarthy 1:250,000

DISTANCE: Approximately 30 miles round-trip

TIME: Two to four days

ELEVATION: 1,500 - 2,500 feet

ACCESS: Road access via the McCarthy Road from Chitina. At approximately 13.5 miles east of Chitina, the Nugget Creek/Kotsina Road leads north-northwest 2.5 miles to where the Nugget Creek Trail branches off to the northeast.

ROUTE: The trail begins with the necessity of fording Strelna Creek. From Strelna Creek, the trail continues northeast across a low bench area where some wet and possibly muddy trail conditions will be encountered. After several miles, the trail gains some elevation and conditions are drier, making for a moderately easy hike for the remaining 13 miles. Several other creeks must be forded along the way, including Nugget Creek near the end of the trail.

POTENTIAL HAZARDS: Swift and cold meltwater streams may have sudden changes in water volume and velocity due to heavy precipitation upstream or excessive snowmelt caused by warm temperatures. The hiker should be prepared for various types of inclement weather, including rain and possibly snow in the later part of the season. Bears may be present anywhere along this route. NOTE: Excursions onto the Kuskulana Glacier should not be attempted without prior knowledge and experience in glacial travel and safety. This is a remote area, and rescue or medical evacuation possibilities may be limited and may take several days. Be sure to fill out a Park Service itinerary.