EDGERTON
HIGHWAY &
MCCARTHY ROAD
ALASKA RV
PARKS AND CAMPGROUNDS
The Edgerton Highway turns east off the Richardson 83 miles north of Valdez. Do not take the old road further north! The highway is black topped for 33 miles to Chitina, then becomes the McCarthy Road for the next 60 miles to the end. The McCarthy Road is a narrow gravel road that was partially constructed using the right of way of the abandoned narrow gauge railroad that used to haul ore from the mine to Cordova. The road has been improved over the last few years, and most is now two lane. Sue, at Kenny Lake, says it is now possible to drive from Chitina to McCarthy in three hours rather than five. We have driven the McCarthy Road in good (for the road) and bad conditions. Even in good conditions, expect heavy dust and be careful on blind curves because locals and tourists driving rentals travel the road at high speeds. This road is still not recommended for large RVs and fifth wheels. Stop at Kenny Lake and ask if they think your rig is suitable. If not, van tours are available from Kenny Lake and Chitina.
The NPS has purchased the mine site and annexed it to the National Park. This and the Nabesna Road off the Tok Cut Off are the only entrances to the park. The tram across the river at the end is still in place, but a foot bridge is now used to get to McCarthy. Before crossing the bridge, buy a shuttle ticket at the office. It is too far (and too buggy) to walk from town to the mine, and you will want to do some hiking towards the glacier from the mine site. Guided glacier excursions are also available. Do not venture out onto the ice without a guide.
Mile 7.2: KENNY LAKE MERCANTILE 822-3313
An RV and tent
campground located seven miles from the Richardson-Edgerton Highway
junction. KENNY LAKE has ten pull-in and nine pull-through RV sites,
electric, sanidump, water station, showers and laundry. The general
store offers a full line of groceries, snacks, free coffee, pop, gas
& diesel, auto parts & hardware, fishing tackle, and propane.
Stop for tourist information and van tour connections to McCarthy and
other backcountry destination. Park your vehicle overnight in the
lot. Get the latest information on National Park road conditions and
activities. The newly constructed hotel has spacious, country style
rooms with a spectacular view of the Wrangell Mountains. Eat at the
Kenny Lake Diner, offering a complete menu of burgers, sandwiches,
baskets, and tacos. All major credit cards accepted. Your hosts: Dick
and Sue Winingham, HC60, Boz 230, Copper Center, AK 99573 Use link
above for more info. FOR SALE:
Contact www.countryrealty.net
E-mail
us
Mile
23.7: Liberty Falls State Recreation Site (below left).
Start of
gravel McCarthy Road (right).
Wrangell View Mt. Park 823-2255 Hookups, dump station.
Mile 33:
Chitina. New Visitors Center. Pavement ends.
D.O.T.
Campsite east end of bridge.
Mile 35.9 Ahtna Campground under development
Mile 42.3: Silver Lake Campground private
Mile 90: NPS Information Kiosk. Free parking.
Mile 91: Glacier View Campground 554-4490 Parking, tents sites, showers, rooms, cafe. Helicopter rides.
Mile 91.3: Copper Point Tram Station Campground 554-4401 Dry parking, tents. Bike, hike, tour tickets.