McCarthy Road

Angelica Stabs
Northern Region Information Officer
angelica.stabs@alaska.gov
(907) 451-5311

Chitina to McCarthy

The McCarthy Road is a 60-mile gravel route following the historic Copper River & Northwestern Railroad, serving as a gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States. The McCarthy Road is owned and maintained by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) from early spring through mid-fall, performing grading, pothole repair, shoulder stabilization, and rough section fixes. The DOT&PF Chitina Station maintains the Edgerton Highway, Old Edgerton, McCarthy Road, Chitina and McCarthy airport – totaling 234 lane miles.

rendered map of the McCarthy Road with inset showing location within the State of Alaska.

For real-time road conditions, weather updates, and travel alerts, we recommend using Alaska 511 or downloading the Alaska 511 app. This tool provides up-to-date information to help you navigate Alaska's highways safely.
Want to order a map? Alaska.org has many maps that you can order!
The Milepost is an excellent travel guide resource with editions being printed every year!
For specifics on construction projects check out our APEX website.

Before You Drive...

McCarthy Road is not an average highway. Driving conditions can be challenging year-round, and services are extremely limited. Travelers should use vehicles capable of handling rough terrain and bring extra fuel, water, food, first aid supplies, spare tires, appropriate clothing, and emergency gear. Check Alaska 511 for current conditions before traveling.

Winter Travel

Winter driving requires thorough research and preparation. This rugged road demands caution and readiness to stay safe in harsh conditions.

Road Overview

McCarthy Road offers stunning views of the Wrangell Mountains, glaciers, and historic bridges. It is unpaved with rough terrain, potholes, and remnants of railroad ties. Under normal summer conditions, most passenger vehicles can make the trip, but rental restrictions may apply. The minimum drive time is 2.5 hours one way, though taking it slow is advised. There are no gas stations or services along the road—fuel up in Glennallen, Kenny Lake, or Chitina. Road maintenance occurs mid-May to mid-September, and cell service is extremely limited.

McCarthy Road History

Originally built in 1909, the Copper River & Northwestern Railway transported high-grade copper ore from Kennecott Mines to Cordova for worldwide export. The railway stretched 196 miles, crossing rugged terrain, rivers, and valleys. One of its greatest engineering feats was the Kuskulana Bridge, completed in 1910, spanning 238 feet above the Kuskulana River.

Kuskulana River Bridge (McCarthy Road). Photo by Jennifer Preiss, Alaska DOT&PF

Kuskulana River Bridge Jennifer Preiss, Alaska DOT&PF

For nearly three decades, the railway fueled Alaska's economy, transporting millions of dollars' worth of copper. In 1938, Kennecott Mines shut down due to declining copper prices and depleted reserves, and the railway was abandoned, with its tracks salvaged for scrap metal.

In 1971, the railway bed was converted into McCarthy Road, allowing vehicle access to McCarthy and Kennecott. While the road has improved, it remains rugged, with potholes, sharp turns, and minimal services. Travelers can explore historic sites like the Gilahina Trestle, cross the Kuskulana Bridge, and visit the Kennecott Mines, now a National Historic Landmark.

For more information about McCarthy Road, check out the National Park Service website: McCarthy Road Guide - Wrangell - St Elias National Park & Preserve.