Top 8 Natural Monuments in the Wrangell Mountains
Natural monuments in the Wrangell Mountains are found within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, the largest national park in the United States. This region features volcanic peaks, extensive glaciers, and wild landscapes. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering diverse geological formations. The area provides opportunities to observe active volcanoes and explore ancient ice formations.
Best natural monuments in the Wrangell Mountains
- The most popular natural monument is Root Glacier Trail and Erie Mine Trail Junction, a trail that provides access to Root Glacier. This highlight is notable for offering primitive campsites with food lockers.
- Another must-see spot is View of Kennicott Glacier from Kennicott Mine, a viewpoint. Visitors can experience guided tours and mountain tours, as well as glacier tours on the nearby Kennicott Glacier.
- Visitors also love View of Stairway Icefall, a viewpoint. This location offers expansive views of Root Glacier and the Stairway Icefall, a fast-moving portion of the glacier.
- Wrangell Mountains is known for glaciers, viewpoints, and trails. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, including icefalls and glacier access points.
- The natural monuments in the Wrangell Mountains are appreciated by the komoot community, with 10 upvotes and 8 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Root Glacier Trail and Erie Mine Trail Junction
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View of Kennicott Glacier from Kennicott Mine
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View of Stairway Icefall
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View of Root Glacier
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The Kennicott Mine can be visited in the summer after the mine has melted. There are guided tours and mountain tours as well as glacier tours on the nearby Kennicott Glacier. Important: the car can only be driven as far as McCarthy.
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The Erie Mine Trail runs parallel to the eastern edge of Root Glacier. Though it is separated from the glacier by the moraine and some elevation, good views of the glacier are frequent. The trail is also sometimes used by bears, so know proper safety and stay alert!
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The Erie Mine Trail ends here, approximately 3,000 feet below the remains of the Erie Mine and bunkhouse. Expansive views of Root Glacier are possible. Also viewable, weather permitting: Stairway Icefall, a relatively fast-moving portion of the glacier, at the top of the valley.
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The Erie Mine Trail runs parallel to the eastern edge of Root Glacier. Though it is separated from the glacier by the moraine and some elevation, good views of the glacier are frequent.
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The trail provides access to Root Glacier as well as primitive campsites with food lockers. Depending on the season, a river crossing may be necessary to reach the glacier. The NPS advises those intending to walk on the glacier to practice extreme caution and use crampons or other traction devices.
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A nice trail, also used by bears!
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end of the trail with a great view on the glacier
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The main street in Kennicott turns into a well-maintained, 4-mile-long hiking trail. This trail winds alongside the Kennicott and Root Glaciers, a great opportunity to experience the grandeur of the Wrangell Mountains and see more of the valley for a few hours or a multi-day glacier and mountain adventure. Great mountain and glacier views, and have the chance to spot bears cruising on the lateral moraine below you. For an easy hike, head to Jumbo Creek; it's an easy three-mile round-trip from Kennicott and is a good destination for relaxing. The turnoff to the toe of the Root Glacier is about 15 minutes past Jumbo Creek and clearly marked. You can also pass the glacier turn-off trail and continue hiking all the way "around the bend" of the Root Glacier to get an up-close look at the Stairway Icefall that spills 6,000 feet off Mt. Regal. Along the way you'll get great views down onto the Root Glacier, where you can see and hear bizarre glacial features. http://www.alaska.org/detail/root-glacier-trail To hike here, follow https://www.komoot.de/tour/5472809
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most impressive natural monuments to see in the Wrangell Mountains?
The Wrangell Mountains offer a variety of stunning natural monuments. You can experience the vastness of the Root Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, known for its dynamic ice formations and blue pools. Another significant feature is the Stairway Icefall, a fast-moving portion of the Root Glacier that spills 6,000 feet off Mt. Regal.
Are there any active volcanoes in the Wrangell Mountains?
Yes, Mount Wrangell is one of North America's largest active volcanoes and the only active volcano in the Wrangell range. Standing at 14,163 feet, it is a massive, ice-covered stratovolcano with steam vents near its summit indicating ongoing activity. Its sheer size and visible steam provide a dramatic spectacle.
What kind of geological formations can I expect to see in the Wrangell Mountains?
The region is characterized by dramatic volcanic peaks, extensive glaciers, and wild, untamed landscapes. Beyond active volcanoes like Mount Wrangell, you'll find immense glaciers such as the Root Glacier with its unique features like moulins and blue pools, and the Nabesna Glacier, which is the world's longest valley glacier. The area also features towering peaks like Mount Blackburn.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments in the Wrangell Mountains?
The summer months are generally the best time to visit, as the Root Glacier is relatively stable for guided ice hiking, and access to areas like the Kennicott Mine becomes possible after the snow melts. This season also offers the best conditions for hiking and exploring the various natural features.
Are there family-friendly activities or natural monuments suitable for beginners in the Wrangell Mountains?
The Root Glacier Trail offers an accessible way to experience a glacier, and guided tours are available. For an easy hike, the trail to Jumbo Creek from Kennicott is a good option, providing a relaxing three-mile round-trip with great views. You can find more easy routes in the area by checking out the Easy hikes in the Wrangell Mountains guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments?
The Wrangell Mountains offer diverse outdoor activities. You can explore various hiking trails, including the Root Glacier Trail, or take on more challenging routes like the Bonanza Mine Trail. For runners, there are dedicated running trails such as the Liberty Falls Trail. Discover more options in the Hiking in the Wrangell Mountains and Running Trails in the Wrangell Mountains guides.
Can I see historical sites alongside natural monuments?
Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical significance. For instance, the View of Kennicott Glacier from Kennicott Mine allows visitors to experience both the impressive glacier and the historic Kennicott Mine, which offers guided tours in the summer.
What are the views like from the natural monuments in the Wrangell Mountains?
The views are spectacular. From locations like the Erie Mine Trail, you can get expansive views of the Root Glacier. The imposing presence of Mount Blackburn is also a focal point for photographers, visible from areas near the Root Glacier. The vastness of the Alaskan wilderness and its glacial power are evident from many viewpoints.
Are there any specific tips for hiking on the glaciers?
When planning to walk on glaciers like the Root Glacier, it's crucial to practice extreme caution. The National Park Service advises using crampons or other traction devices. Depending on the season, a river crossing may also be necessary to reach the glacier. Guided tours are highly recommended for safety and a richer experience.
What is unique about the Nabesna Glacier?
The Nabesna Glacier holds the distinction of being the world's longest valley glacier, extending for approximately 53 miles (85 kilometers). Its immense scale and pristine condition make it a significant natural wonder, showcasing the vastness of the Alaskan wilderness and glacial power.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted near the natural monuments?
While exploring the trails, especially those alongside glaciers like the Root Glacier, you might have the chance to spot bears cruising on the lateral moraine. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow proper bear safety guidelines.
Are there primitive camping options near the natural monuments?
Yes, the Root Glacier Trail and Erie Mine Trail Junction provides access to primitive campsites equipped with food lockers, offering an opportunity for an immersive outdoor experience near the glacier.
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