Getting Here

Part of the adventure of visiting McCarthy & Kennicott is the journey itself. Alaska is vast and spectacular, and while it may feel remote, reaching McCarthy is very doable—we’re here to help every step of the way.

Whether you drive, fly, or take a shuttle, this page covers everything you need to know to plan your trip with confidence.

We can handle the logistics for you, or if you’d like to plan on your own, we’re here to help. Either way, let us know your needs by filling out our Trip Inquiry Form.

Getting Here
DRIVE YOURSELF

DRIVE YOURSELF

Driving to McCarthy is an adventure in itself and a popular way to reach the area. The last 60 miles, known as the McCarthy Road, begin in Chitina and end at the footbridge over the Kennicott River into McCarthy.

Quick Tips for Driving

  • No 4WD required – most standard cars handle the road in summer
  • Plan for ~2 hours – drive 30–35 mph to avoid flats and collisions
  • Conditions can change week to week due to rain and road use
  • Bring a full-size spare and tools for changing a tire
  • Flat tire repair service is available in McCarthy
  • Chitina is the last fuel stop
  • Limited cell coverage along the road; Verizon works intermittently, no other providers past Chitina
  • Enjoy the drive! The road follows the old Copper River railroad, with vast vistas and plenty of wildlife

When You Arrive

  • Follow lodging instructions for parking and access
  • If camping or without lodging, paid day parking and camping is available at the footbridge

Car Rental Companies

The following Alaska companies allow travel on the McCarthy Road:

Rental Car Note: Not all companies allow travel on the McCarthy Road. Confirm with your provider.

If your car isn’t allowed, you can drive to Glennallen or Chitina and take a shuttle or flight the rest of the way to McCarthy & Kennicott.

Driving At a Glance

Starting Point Distance Estimated Time Key Notes / Highlights
Anchorage 314 mi 7–8 hrs Glenn Highway → Palmer → Glenallen (fuel) → Richardson Hwy → Edgerton Hwy → Chitina → McCarthy. Views of Chugach Mountains.
Fairbanks 374 mi 7–8 hrs Richardson Hwy south → left on Edgerton Hwy → Chitina & McCarthy. Optional side trip: Denali Hwy to Tangle Lakes (camping & lodging available).
Valdez 176 mi 5 hrs Richardson Hwy north → right on Edgerton Hwy → Chitina & McCarthy. Highlights: Thompson Pass, Tonsina River, Chugach scenery.
Denali NP 359 mi 8+ hrs Denali Hwy east (check dirt road conditions) → Paxson → Richardson Hwy south → Edgerton Hwy → Chitina & McCarthy.

Detailed Driving Instructions

From Anchorage – 314 miles (7–8 hours)
Take the Glenn Highway out of downtown Anchorage into the Matanuska Valley. Pass the Parks Highway turnoff and continue through Palmer (last stop light and grocery store). Follow the highway 130 miles through the twists between the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains. Turn south in Glenallen (fuel up) and take the Richardson Highway 33 miles through Copper Center. Turn east on the Edgerton Highway for 33 miles to Chitina and the Copper River bridge. From Chitina, it’s 60 miles of dirt road to McCarthy.

From Fairbanks – 374 miles (7–8 hours)
Take the Richardson Highway south through Delta Junction and Glenallen. Turn left on the Edgerton Highway to Chitina & McCarthy. Optional side trip: Denali Highway (14 miles out of Paxson) to Tangle Lakes—beautiful alpine tundra, lakes, and Alaska Range peaks. Camping and lodging available at the end of the pavement.

From Valdez – 176 miles (5 hours)
Take the Richardson Highway north 100 miles, then turn east on the Edgerton Highway to Chitina & McCarthy. Highlights include Thompson Pass, the Tonsina River, and gorgeous Chugach scenery.

From Denali National Park – 359 miles (8+ hours)
Head east from Caswell on the Denali Highway (dirt road; check conditions before traveling). After 120 miles, reach Paxson and head south on the Richardson Highway through Glennallen. Turn left on Edgerton Highway to Chitina & McCarthy.

Getting Here
TAKE A SHUTTLE

Taking a shuttle is an easy, stress-free way to get to McCarthy & Kennicott. It’s especially convenient for solo travelers or those who want to avoid driving the McCarthy Road. Shuttle schedules and pricing change seasonally, so be sure to contact the companies directly before booking.

Overflow Transit

  • Reliability, convenience, and comfort, make Overflow Transit the most popular choice these days for Anchorage to McCarthy travel
  • Runs at least twice a week in each direction, May through September
  • Service from Anchorage to the footbridge over the Kennicott River at the end of the McCarthy Road
  • Relax and enjoy the scenery – no driving required
  • Schedule & Pricing

Kennicott Shuttle

  • Direct service daily during the summer from Glennallen to McCarthy and back
  • Stops in Copper Center, Kenny Lake, and Chitina
  • Great for travelers whose rental car cannot go down the McCarthy Road
  • Also the only option for day trips from outside McCarthy
  • Schedule & Pricing

Getting Here
BOOK A FLIGHT

Flying is the fastest way to reach McCarthy and a spectacular way to experience Alaska’s vast landscape. If you’re already considering a flightseeing tour, air shuttles can combine that adventure with efficient transportation.

Charter Flights

Charter flights let you reserve your own plane on the date and time you choose. Flights are direct, flexible, and offer incredible views of the Wrangell Mountains.

We can help arrange a charter at no additional cost, from anywhere in Alaska, including Chitina and Glennallen.

Private charter flights: Anchorage → McCarthy

  • Approximately 2 hours one way

Contact us to organize the best charter for your individualized logistics.

Other Flying Options

Reach out to us for assistance with scheduling and logistics.

Copper Valley Air & Arctic Legacy Aviation

  • Regular flights between Anchorage, Glennallen, and McCarthy
  • Scheduled Mail Plane Flights operate Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays throughout summer
  • Phone: 907-822-4200
  • Schedule & Pricing

Wrangell Mountain Air

  • 3 Daily Scheduled Flights between Chitina and McCarthy during the summer
  • Driving distances to Chitina: Anchorage ~5 hrs, Fairbanks ~6 hrs, Valdez ~2.5 hrs
  • Phone: (800) 478-1160
  • Schedule & Pricing

Lake and Peninsula Air

  • Based in Anchorage (Merrill Field)
  • Ideal for families or groups up to 9
  • Cessna Caravans are IFR capable with large payloads, reducing luggage and group-size limitations
  • Phone: 907-345-2228
  • Schedule & Pricing

THE JOURNEY TO McCARTHY

Check out this awesome video from our friends at Alaska.org!

Still Have Questions?

That’s normal, this is Alaska.

If you’re unsure which option is best, want help coordinating flights or shuttles, or just want reassurance before committing, reach out through our Trip Inquiry Form. We’re happy to help you plan the smoothest route possible.

Getting to McCarthy & Kennicott: Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle to drive the McCarthy Road?

No. 4WD is not required. The McCarthy Road is maintained during the summer season. Most standard cars and rental vehicles drive it without issue when driven slowly and carefully.

How long does it take to drive the McCarthy Road?

The McCarthy Road is 60 miles and typically takes about 2 hours. Driving 30–35 mph helps reduce the risk of flat tires and wildlife collisions.

Is the McCarthy Road dangerous?

The road is remote but not dangerous if driven responsibly. Conditions can vary with weather and use, so drive slowly, watch for wildlife, and make sure you have a full-size spare tire.

Where is the last gas stop before McCarthy?

Chitina is the last place to buy fuel. Make sure to fill up before continuing onto the McCarthy Road.

Is there cell phone service on the McCarthy Road?

Cell service is somewhat reliable in Chitina (except AT&T). There is little to no service along most of the McCarthy Road until the final 10 miles, where Verizon typically work again.

Where do I park when I arrive?

Parking instructions depend on your lodging. If you don’t have lodging or plan to camp, you can pay to park in the lot at the end of the road near the footbridge

How do I get from the parking area into McCarthy or Kennicott?

You’ll walk across the Kennicott footbridge. From there, McCarthy and Kennicott are accessible by foot, shuttle, or lodging-arranged transport.

Can rental cars drive the McCarthy Road?

Some rental companies allow it, others do not—and policies change. Always confirm before booking. Companies that commonly allow McCarthy Road travel include:

  • Alaska 4×4 Rentals
  • Go North

If your rental isn’t allowed, you can drive to Glennallen or Chitina and take a flight or shuttle from there.

Is it better to drive, fly, or take a shuttle?

It depends on your schedule, comfort level, and trip style.

  • Driving offers flexibility and scenery
  • Flying is fast and scenic
  • Shuttles are stress-free and popular

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help you choose the best option.

Can you help plan transportation for me?

Yes! If you’d rather not coordinate everything yourself, we’ll help you build a plan that fits your trip.

Is getting to McCarthy & Kennicott worth it?

Absolutely! For most visitors, the journey becomes one of the most memorable parts of their Alaska experience.