Kennicott Explorer
Back to ExcursionsKennicott Explorer
- Duration
- Approximately 12 1/2 hours
- Price From
-
$169.95 Adult
$99.95 Child
- Moderate Activity Level
- Off the Beaten Path
- Shopping Opportunities
Climb aboard and let us do the driving as you enjoy the beautiful Copper River Valley! Your local driver-guide will point out the highlights of the area and answer questions as you pass through the farming community of Kenny Lake and the historic town of Chitina. From there the road enters the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and follows the path of the Copper River & Northwestern Railway—nicknamed the “Can’t Run and Never Will.” Remnants of the railroad can be seen along the way. You’ll stop at the Kuskulana Bridge—a 525′ steel bridge built in 1911 that spans the 283′ deep gorge of the Kuskulana River and is still used today. Stop at the impressive Gilahina River bridge—very large wooden trestle, most of which is still standing but most definitely not in use. The 60 miles of road from Chitina are gravel and sit directly on the old railroad bed. At the end of the road, you will get off at the footbridge with tickets to catch the McCarthy bus that will take you to the final 4½ miles into the historic mill town of Kennicott. You’ll have approximately five hours on your own to explore the area so make sure you visit the Kennicott Visitor Center and speak with a local Ranger!
Special Note
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Dress in warm layers. You will have 5 hours to explore at your leisure. The 60-mile McCarthy Road is rough in spots and is not meant for guests with back issues. Delays due to road condition are unlikely but possible. Lunch and optional recreational activities (i.e. guided hiking tours) can be purchased in Kennicott at your own expense. After Labor Day, shopping and dining venues may be limited. Travel time is approximately 3½ hours each way.
HOW TO BOOK
An array of optional excursions are available at the Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge. To add an activity to your stay, please visit the Tour desk at Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Alaska Land Excursions, purchased through the Cruise Personalizer, may be cancelled up to three days prior to travel without any cancellation fees. Land Excursions cancelled prior to the cancellation deadline will be refunded to the credit card that you provided in the Cruise Personalizer to purchase your tours. Excursions cancelled within three (3) days prior travel are subject to a 100% cancellation fee, unless the operator, at their sole discretion, is unable to operate the program due to unforeseen circumstances. All sales of tours booked while on your land tour are considered final at the time of purchase and are 100% non-refundable except in the case of an operator approved cancellation.