While you are here, visit the local Ranger Station to learn more about the area's history. Learn more about the Ahtna history in the area. Elias National Park.įor thousands of years, the area was home to the Athabascans (the Ahtna Athabascan name for the area is Tsedi Na’, meaning “Copper River”), but with the copper ore discovery around 1900, everything changed. The town is located on the banks of the Copper River and the boundary of Wrangell - St. The stretch leading to Chitina is paved and easily accessible for all vehicles. The McCarthy Road starts from the little town of Chitina (population of about 120 people), around 30 miles off the Richardson Highway.

We don’t recommend driving RVs, especially the ones bigger than most European apartments, although we saw a few parked at the local campsite. We saw a moose in the first few miles and two black bears closer to the end of the road. The road from Chitina to McCarthy took us about three and a half hours one way, with numerous stops along the road for short walks and photos. “Under normal summer conditions, most passenger vehicles can make the trip.” Be prepared for this drive but don’t avoid taking McCarthy Road.

Keep your speed lower on the more narrow and sketchy stretches. You should drive slowly and carefully and remember the stones or railway remnants that stick out of the road in some parts. We didn’t feel like a 4x4 car was necessary here in early August. The road, especially after the first few miles, is relatively flat.

We drove our 2012 Highlander Toyota, which handled the route without problems. After hearing so many stories (mainly from the ’80s and 90’s), we finally decided to try it ourselves. McCarthy is a legendary route among the locals in Alaska. We suggest taking your time - it’s the only way to drive safely and enjoy the beauty and incredible history. Visiting McCarthy and driving the McCarthy Road is an adventure worth your time and proper planning.Įven though the McCarthy route is less than 60 miles, you should allow a minimum (!) of 2 hours one way. Ideally, try to spend the night in the Glennallen area or Chitina before heading to McCarthy. We regularly spend 1-2 nights in this area. Remember that the Glenn Highway, connecting Anchorage with Glennallen, is a beautiful road. You will have more than 300 miles from Anchorage to drive to get to McCarthy.

Alaskan flat tire