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Bonanza Mine Hiking Trip

Guided
See all hiking tours in McCarthy
Kid Friendly
Locally Owned
Shuttle Included
Free Cancellation
Private
Instant Book
Duration: 9 hours

Pricing

Participant (2027)

All ages • For experienced hikers with a good level of physical fitness

$220

All Prices

Participant (2027)

All ages • For experienced hikers with a good level of physical fitness

$220

Description

Guided Kennecott Hike - Bonanza Mine Full-Day Guided Hike

Discover early 1900s artifacts in remote alpine terrain! This adventure is great for adventurous hikers looking to enjoy the rich history of Kennecott, Alaska. This full-day hike is ideal for adventurous hikers interested in Alaska’s mining past. You’ll climb high above the historic mill town of Kennecott to reach the Bonanza Mine site, once one of the richest copper claims in the region. While the mine itself is closed for safety, you’ll explore the surrounding area, including the old tram station and leftover mining equipment from the early 1900s.
Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of the Root and Kennicott Glaciers that spill into the valley below. In the distance, you’ll have panoramic views of the Chugach Mountains that line part of the Alaskan Coast. Your guide will share information about the local landscape, wildlife, and the area’s fascinating mining history. This is one of the best ways to combine stunning alpine scenery with a deeper look at Alaska’s industrial past.

Duration

  1. Duration: 8 hours
  2. Mileage: 10 miles round-trip
  3. Season: Daily from June 15th – August 15th

Location / Where to Meet

Round-trip transportation to/from McCarthy-Kennecott is included. Pick-up time and location vary depending on your lodging location. Please reference your confirmation for specific details. If you're driving into McCarthy, meet at:
St. Elias Alpine Guides
Please note that Copper Center is a 3-4 hour drive and Glennallen is a 4-5 hour drive away from McCarthy/Kennecott.

Ages & Requirements

  1. All ages are welcome!  As this is a full-day private tour, it can be customized for your group, but please consider your kids' endurance and capabilities.
  2. Please keep in mind that there are uneven trail surfaces, steep trail, and loose rock. All participants must be able to navigate independently. A hands-free carrier is required for those 2 and under.

What's Included

  1. Experienced and knowledgeable guide
  2. Round-trip transportation to and from Kennecott
  3. Private tour for you and your group

Not Included

  1. Gratuity
  2. Personal gear
  3. Lunch or snacks (snack packs are available for purchase at checkout).

What to Bring / Wear

  1. Rain Gear – Both jacket and pants!
  2. Extra layers – Warm sweater and/or jacket
  3. Hat and Light Gloves
  4. Sunglasses, Sunscreen, and Bug Spray
  5. Hiking Boots with ankle support or other sturdy walking shoes.
  6. Trekking Poles
  7. Lunch, Snacks, and Plenty of Water
  8. Camera/Phone to Take Pictures!
  9. Backpack – Please make sure it is big enough to carry your extra layers, lunch, snacks, and water.
Once you book your trip, you’ll receive a confirmation with all the information you need!

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY St. Elias Alpine Guides

FAQs

What is the Footbridge?

The towns of McCarthy and Kennecott are closed to outside vehicle traffic, and the Footbridge is the only way for visitors to enter the area. The Footbridge is a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Kennicott River and is located at the end of the McCarthy Road.

You can pay to park your car at the Base Camp Kennicott Campground at the end of the McCarthy Road. To access the towns of McCarthy and Kennecott, you’ll want to cross the Footbridge. Once on the other side, there are a few different ways to get to where you need to go:

  • If you need to get to your lodging, check with your lodging host to arrange a pick-up with them.
  • If you need to get around the area for the day, there is a local shuttle service that provides rides up to Kennecott at a cost. However, you can always ride your bike or walk the ½ mile to McCarthy or the 5 miles to Kennecott. There are no bike rentals available in the area.

How strenuous is the Bonanza Mine Hiking Trip?

This is a strenuous 10-mile round-trip hike that includes gaining 4,000 feet of elevation. We will go out rain or shine! This trip is recommended for experienced hikers with a good level of physical fitness. However, as a private tour, it is open to all ages.

Should I tip my guide?

Tipping is customary in the guiding industry and always appreciated. While our guides are paid professionals, gratuities help make guiding a sustainable career. A good guideline is 10–20% of the trip cost—typically $10–$35 per person for day trips, and 10–20% of the total cost given at the end for multi-day trips. Tips can be given in cash, via Venmo, or by card. If your trip includes a flight, please tip your pilot separately, as any pre-tips go directly to your guide.

Where is Wrangell - St. Elias National Park?

WSENP is located in Southeast-Central Alaska, about 300mi East of Anchorage and on the Canadian border.

Should I bring a lunch? What does the snack pack include?

Yes, you do need to bring your own lunch.

You’re welcome to reserve a Snack Pack or purchase one at our office. Due to item availability (and the remote nature of McCarthy), substitutions may occur. They typically include:

  • Nuts
  • Beef jerky
  • Granola bar
  • Candy bar
  • Fruit snacks
  • Fruit leather
  • Rice Krispie Treat
  • Snack crackers

Cancellation Policy

Your payment is fully refundable up to 48 hours prior to the start of the trip. If anything comes up prior to that time, call or email us to cancel your reservation for a full refund. Within 48 hours, there is no refund for cancellations. No-shows will be charged the full price. In the rare event that we have to cancel a trip due to dangerous conditions, you will be notified and receive a full refund.
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Availability

June 2027
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Reviews

Location

Address

Wrangell St. Elias National Park Motherlode Powerhouse

McCarthy, AK, 99588

US

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