Wrangell-St Elias FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Wrangell-St Elias.

When is the best time to visit Wrangell-St Elias?

The best time to visit Wrangell-St Elias National Park is between late May and early September with the warmest weather and longest days. Summer (late June to August) sees temperatures ranging 10-19°C. May to September is also the best time for watching wildlife. Winters (October-April) are long, dark and very cold, ranging from below zero down to -40°C, and many operations close down. Spring (May-June) is generally cool with mostly dry weather, while Autumn (September-October) sees temperatures dropping from 10°C to below zero with more rain. Mid-August to mid-September is the best time to enjoy the Fall colours, while August to April is the best time to see the Northern Lights with the clearest visibility in the winter months.

What is the time difference between the UK and Wrangell-St Elias?

Wrangell-St Elias National Park is in Alaska Standard time (GMT – 9) and observes Alaska Daylight Time (GMT – 8) March to November.

What places combine well with Wrangell-St Elias?

Copper Center is about 3.5 hours’ drive east of Anchorage, while McCarthy is about six hours from Anchorage. The park is about two hours from Prince William Sound and Valdez. It can also be reached from across the border with the Yukon in Canada via Tok. The park borders Kluane National Park in the Yukon, but the two parks are usually visited separately.