Hike to the Bonanza Mine in the Wrangell St-Elias National Park

Chitina, Alaska

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Details

Distance

9 miles

Elevation Gain

3800 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Eric Hedstrand

Stunning scenery, hike to the top of a mountain, 1930's mining ruins in a frontier Alaskan setting.

This 9 mile strenuous hike will reward the intrepid hiker with a serene setting and in-tact mining ruins for any and all to explore at will. Literally at will as there will be no park personnel telling you where you can and cannot go - it is really at your own risk! The mining ruins are halfway in tact, with some parts of the various buildings partially collapsed. Many of the old tools and tram equipment is still located up here. Seriously dope.

Warning that at the time of the hike you were still allowed to take rocks (they are cool turquoise colored with the copper deposits), although it would be best to check with NPS personnel before you depart. Leave all mining ruins where they rest, this site is only here because people like you or I left the site standing as-is. Don't be one of those guys.

The trail is accessed via a spur trail off the main root glacier trail, which starts at the Kennecott Mines NPS HQ. Plan for the entire trek to take the majority of a day.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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