Best Hikes Near Wrangell

Located in the heart of Southeastern Alaska, Wrangell is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels and interests. From scenic coastal walks to challenging mountain climbs, Wrangell has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best hikes near Wrangell, providing you with essential information to plan your next adventure.

Trail Overview

The trails near Wrangell are special because they offer a unique combination of stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Hikers love the trails in this area for their breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and waterways. The trails take you through lush forests, across rushing streams, and over mountain ridges, providing an unforgettable experience. The key highlights of these trails include the opportunity to see wildlife such as bears, moose, and eagles, as well as the chance to explore the region’s rich mining and indigenous history.

Trail Stats at a Glance

• Distance: 5-20 miles, depending on the trail
• Elevation Gain: 1,000-4,000 feet, depending on the trail
• Difficulty: Easy to Hard, depending on the trail
• Estimated Time: 2-8 hours, depending on the trail and hiker experience
• Trail Type: Out-and-back, loop, and point-to-point options available
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, but check regulations for specific trails
• Kid-Friendly: Yes, but check trail difficulty and length before bringing children

Getting There

To access the trails near Wrangell, follow these driving directions from the nearest city:

From Wrangell, take the Zimovia Highway (also known as the Wrangell-Zimovia Highway) north towards the trailheads. The GPS coordinates for the trailheads are: 56.4333° N, 132.3667° W. Parking is available at the trailheads, and day-use fees may apply. The trailheads have basic facilities, including restrooms and picnic tables.

Detailed Trail Description

The trails near Wrangell offer a variety of landscapes and challenges. The Mount Dewey Trail, for example, is a 5-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to the summit of Mount Dewey, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterways. The trail begins at an elevation of 100 feet and climbs to 2,500 feet, with an average grade of 10%. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, with scenic viewpoints and rest stops along the way.

At mile 1.5, the trail crosses a rushing stream, and at mile 2.5, it enters a lush forest with dense vegetation. The trail then climbs steeply to the summit, with switchbacks and scenic viewpoints along the way. At the summit, you’ll find a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape.

The East Fork Trail is another popular option, a 10-mile out-and-back trail that takes you through a lush forest and along the East Fork of the Stikine River. The trail begins at an elevation of 500 feet and climbs to 1,500 feet, with an average grade of 5%. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, with scenic viewpoints and rest stops along the way.

At mile 3, the trail crosses a bridge over the East Fork, and at mile 5, it enters a scenic meadow with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail then follows the river, with scenic viewpoints and rest stops along the way. At mile 8, the trail climbs steeply to a scenic ridge, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Time to Hike

The best time to hike the trails near Wrangell depends on your preferences and the weather conditions. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown:

• June: Wildflower season is in full bloom, and the trails are generally dry and easy to navigate.
• July and August: These are the peak summer months, with warm weather and long days. However, the trails can be crowded, and the mosquitoes can be intense.
• September and October: The fall colors are stunning, and the weather is generally cool and dry. However, the days are getting shorter, and the trails can be muddy and slippery.
• November to May: The trails are generally snow-covered and icy, making them more challenging to navigate. However, the scenery is still stunning, and the trails are less crowded.

What to Bring

When hiking the trails near Wrangell, it’s essential to be prepared with the right gear and knowledge. Here are the Ten Essentials adapted for Alaska:

• Navigation: Map, compass, and GPS device or app
• Hydration: Water bottle or hydration bladder, and water treatment tablets or filter
• Nutrition: Energy-rich snacks, and a lunch and dinner if you’re planning a long hike
• First Aid: First aid kit, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers
• Shelter: Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad if you’re planning to camp overnight
• Extra Clothing: Layers, including a base layer, insulating layer, and waterproof jacket and pants
• Headlamp and Extra Batteries: In case you’re hiking late in the day or in low-light conditions
• Multi-Tool or Pocket Knife: For basic repairs and tasks
• Fire Starter: Matches, lighter, or fire starter kit
• Bear Spray: In case of a bear encounter

Additionally, consider bringing:

• Trekking Poles: For stability and support on uneven terrain
• Gaiters and Gators: For protection from mud and water
• Camera and Binoculars: For capturing stunning scenery and wildlife

Wildlife & Safety

When hiking the trails near Wrangell, it’s essential to be aware of the wildlife and potential hazards. Here are some tips:

• Bear Encounters: Be aware of your surroundings, make noise while hiking, and carry bear spray. Black bears and brown bears are common in the area.
• Moose on Trail: Be cautious when approaching moose, as they can be unpredictable. Keep a safe distance, and make noise to avoid startling them.
• Weather Hazards: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including rain, snow, and wind. Bring layers, and stay informed about weather forecasts.
• River Crossing Safety: Be cautious when crossing rivers, as the water can be cold and fast-moving. Use designated crossing points, and consider bringing a personal flotation device.
• Avalanche Zones: Be aware of avalanche zones, especially during winter and spring. Check avalanche forecasts, and consider bringing avalanche safety gear.

Photography Tips

The trails near Wrangell offer stunning scenery and wildlife, making them a photographer’s paradise. Here are some tips:

• Best Viewpoints: Look for scenic viewpoints, such as summits, ridges, and river crossings. The Mount Dewey Trail and East Fork Trail offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterways.
• Golden Hour Timing: Plan your hike to coincide with the golden hour, just before sunset, for stunning light and colors.
• What Lens to Bring: Bring a wide-angle lens (10-24mm) for scenic landscapes, and a telephoto lens (70-200mm) for wildlife and portraits.
• Iconic Shots: Look for iconic shots, such as the summit of Mount Dewey, the East Fork River, and the surrounding mountains. Consider bringing a tripod and remote shutter release for sharper images.

History & Background

The trails near Wrangell have a rich history and cultural significance. The area has been home to the Tlingit and Haida Native American tribes for thousands of years, and the trails have been used for hunting, gathering, and trade. The area was also a major mining center during the gold rush era, with many trails and roads built to access the mines.

The Mount Dewey Trail, for example, was built in the early 1900s as a mining road, and the East Fork Trail was used by the Tlingit tribe for hunting and gathering. The trails have been maintained and improved over the years, with the help of local volunteers and conservation organizations.

Nearby Trails & Campgrounds

For multi-day adventures, consider combining the trails near Wrangell with other nearby trails and campgrounds. Here are some options:

• Related Trails: The Petersburg Mountain Trail and the LeConte Glacier Trail offer stunning scenery and challenging hiking opportunities.
• Nearest Campgrounds: The Wrangell RV Park and the Petersburg Campground offer basic camping facilities, including restrooms and potable water.
• Alternative Routes: Consider taking a boat or kayak tour to access remote trails and campgrounds, such as the Tongass Narrows and the LeConte Bay.

Remember to always follow safety guidelines and regulations, and to respect the environment and local communities. With proper planning and preparation, the trails near Wrangell offer an unforgettable hiking experience in one of Alaska’s most stunning regions.