Kluane Wrangell St Elias Glacier Bay Tatshenshini Alsek

A Comprehensive Guide to Kluane, Wrangell-St. Elias, Glacier Bay, and Tatshenshini-Alsek National Parks

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide for exploring some of North America’s most breathtaking and awe-inspiring national parks: Kluane, Wrangell-St. Elias, Glacier Bay, and Tatshenshini-Alsek. This guide is designed to provide you with all the essential information, tips, and recommendations to make your experience unforgettable.

Kluane National Park and Reserve

Location

Kluane National Park and Reserve is located in Yukon, Canada, approximately 300 km southwest of Whitehorse, the capital city.

Key Attractions

  • Kluane Ice Field: The largest non-polar ice field in the world, covering an area of over 500 square miles.
  • Sanctuary Mountain Range: Home to Canada’s highest peak, Mount Logan (19,551 feet).
  • Alsek River: A premier whitewater rafting destination with Class III and IV rapids.

Things to Do

  • Hiking: Explore the many hiking trails, including the popular Alpine Ridge Trail.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Spot grizzly bears, caribou, moose, and wolves in their natural habitat.
  • Flightseeing: Gain a unique perspective of the ice fields and mountain ranges from a helicopter or small plane tour.
  • Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrilling rapids of the Alsek River with professional guides.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve

Location

Wrangell-St. Elias is located in Alaska, USA, adjacent to Kluane National Park and Reserve and stretching from the Gulf of Alaska to the Canadian border.

Key Attractions

  • Mount St. Elias: The second highest peak in North America (18,008 feet).
  • Root Glacier: One of the most accessible glaciers within the park for hiking and climbing.
  • Kennicott Mine: A ghost town that offers a glimpse into Alaskan gold rush history.

Things to Do

  • Hiking: Explore numerous trails, including the popular Nizina River Trail and the Root Glacier Trail.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Spot grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep.
  • Backpacking: Plan a multi-day backpacking trip to experience the park’s remote wilderness.
  • Photography: Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife in this pristine and vast landscape.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Location

Glacier Bay is located on the Gulf of Alaska coast in Alaska, USA. It is accessible only by boat or plane.

Key Attractions

  • Glaciers: Home to 16 major tidewater glaciers, including Margerie Glacier and Grand Pacific Glacier.
  • Wildlife: View humpback whales, brown bears, sea otters, and harbor seals.
  • Maritime History: Explore the remnants of the Tlingit people’s ancient culture and the historic Totem Poles.

Things to Do

  • Cruise: Take a boat tour to view the glaciers, wildlife, and maritime history.
  • Hiking: Enjoy guided hikes on Baranof Island or Gustavus, the park’s gateway community.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Spot brown bears fishing for salmon along the coast or cruise among pods of humpback whales.

Tatshenshini-Alsek Wilderness Park

Location

Tatshenshini-Alsek Wilderness Park is located in British Columbia, Canada, adjacent to Kluane National Park and Reserve and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve.

Key Attractions

  • Alsek and Tatshenshini Rivers: Premier whitewater rafting destination with Class III and IV rapids.
  • Mount Alsek: Canada’s 10th highest peak (15,679 feet).
  • Parks Canada Heritage River: Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding natural beauty and geological significance.

Things to Do

  • Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrilling rapids of the Alsek and Tatshenshini Rivers with professional guides.
  • Hiking: Explore the park’s remote wilderness on guided hikes or backpacking trips.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Spot grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and caribou in their natural habitat.
  • Photography: Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife in this pristine and vast landscape.

Tips for Visiting

  1. Plan Ahead: Research the best time to visit each park based on your interests (wildlife viewing, glacier calving, etc.).
  2. Hire Professional Guides: For activities like whitewater rafting, hiking, and flightseeing, it’s recommended to use local, experienced guides.
  3. Pack Appropriately: Dress in layers for variable temperatures, and bring rain gear for the unpredictable Alaskan weather.
  4. Practice Leave No Trace Principles: Help preserve these fragile ecosystems by following Leave No Trace principles.
  5. Be Bear Aware: Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Store food properly to avoid attracting bears.
  6. Check Park Websites for Updates: Stay informed about park closures, road conditions, and wildlife activity by visiting the official park websites before your visit.

Enjoy your adventure through these magnificent national parks! The memories you create will last a lifetime.