MAPS: (Gulkana) A1, A2, B2, (Valdez) D2
DISTANCE: 20 miles one-way
TIME: Four to eight days depending on route and side trips
ELEVATION: From 3,000' at Sanford River to 5,500' on bench to 2,700' in Dadina Drainage
From drop-off point on the Sanford River Bars, it is approximately a 3.5-mile hike along the South side of the Sanford River to the Glacier. Gravel planes and game trails can be found among areas of brush. Wildlife present include caribou, Dall Sheep, bison and ptarmigan.
Approaching the glacier, you can get within 20 yards from the ice right across the Sanford River. Natalie Mountain can be viewed to the North. One swift tributary will be crossed coming from the bowl to the south.
Begin to head south—away from the glacier. You will first dip down through some thick alders until rising above three-line in the following 2,000' climb. Views of Mt. Drum and Mt. Sanford are excellent during this climb through alpine tundra.
After leveling out at over 5,000 feet, walk eastward approximately 2 miles to find water. This is a good base camp spot—day hiking is possible for over 5 miles in any direction. Views are of the east face of Mt. Drum, the southwest face of Sanford and west side of Mt. Wrangell and Mt. Zanetti.
Continue hiking south to drop down to the Dadina River. Descend the second drainage West of the terminus of the glacier. The drainage narrows and cliffs off in spots. To avoid this, cut high on the Eastside of the drainage into the alder. Some scree must also be traversed in dropping down to river level.
The Dadina River can usually be crossed in braided sections up-river. There is a short airstrip on the southeast side of the river.
Depending on your pick-up point, your route may vary from here. Either continue down the Dadina River bed or hike up drainage to the South for additional views of the South face of Drum and views of Zanetti and Wrangell. A series of grassy benches above 5,000 feet serve as excellent camp spots.
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