Trail Overview
The White Mountains National Recreation Area, located in the Interior region of Alaska, offers some of the most breathtaking and remote hiking trails in the state. This vast wilderness area, spanning over 1 million acres, is characterized by rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and meandering rivers. The trail system within the recreation area is extensive, with routes suitable for hikers of all skill levels. What makes this trail special is the unique opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of Alaska’s wilderness, with its abundant wildlife, stunning vistas, and diverse geological formations.
Key highlights of the White Mountains National Recreation Area include the chance to see an array of wildlife, such as grizzly bears, moose, and caribou, as well as the opportunity to explore the area’s rich cultural heritage. The recreation area is also home to several traditional Native American villages, where visitors can learn about the history and customs of the indigenous people.
Trail Stats
The trail stats for the White Mountains National Recreation Area vary depending on the specific route taken. However, one of the most popular trails in the area is the Wickersham Creek Trail, which spans approximately 12 miles round-trip. The trail has an elevation gain of around 1,500 feet and is considered moderate to difficult due to its uneven terrain and river crossings.
The estimated time to complete the trail is around 6-8 hours, depending on the hiker’s pace and the amount of time spent taking in the scenery. The trail type is out-and-back, meaning that hikers will need to retrace their steps to return to the trailhead.
- Distance: 12 miles round-trip
- Elevation gain: 1,500 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate to difficult
- Estimated time: 6-8 hours
- Trail type: Out-and-back
Getting There
To access the White Mountains National Recreation Area, hikers will need to drive to the trailhead, which is located at GPS coordinates: 65.5333° N, 146.9333° W. From Fairbanks, take the Steese Highway (AK-2) north for approximately 60 miles, then turn left onto the Wickersham Creek Road. Follow the road for around 10 miles, then turn right onto the trailhead access road.
Parking is available at the trailhead, but be aware that the lot can fill up quickly during peak season. There are no fees to park or access the trail, but hikers are required to register at the trailhead before embarking on their journey.
Driving directions:
- From Fairbanks, take the Steese Highway (AK-2) north for approximately 60 miles
- Turn left onto the Wickersham Creek Road
- Follow the road for around 10 miles
- Turn right onto the trailhead access road
Trail Description
The Wickersham Creek Trail begins at the trailhead and immediately enters the forest, where hikers will need to navigate through dense vegetation and uneven terrain. The trail follows the creek for several miles, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
At around the 2-mile mark, hikers will come to a river crossing, which can be challenging during high water. It’s essential to exercise caution when crossing the river and to use the provided footbridge if possible.
As hikers continue on the trail, they will encounter several landmarks, including the Wickersham Creek Cabin, which is available for rent through the recreation area’s website. The cabin offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great place to rest and refuel.
The trail continues to follow the creek, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. At around the 6-mile mark, hikers will come to a scenic overlook, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The trail then begins to descend, following the creek back to the trailhead. Hikers should be aware of the uneven terrain and potential river crossings on the return journey.
Mile-by-Mile Trail Description:
- Mile 0-2: Forest hiking, creek following
- Mile 2-4: River crossing, scenic views
- Mile 4-6: Wickersham Creek Cabin, scenic overlook
- Mile 6-12: Descent, creek following, return to trailhead
Best Time to Hike
The best time to hike the Wickersham Creek Trail is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. However, hikers should be aware that the trail can be buggy during this time, and it’s essential to bring insect repellent.
The trail is also accessible during the spring and fall, but hikers should be prepared for snow and ice on the trail. The recreation area is closed during the winter months, from October to May, due to heavy snow and extreme cold.
Hikers should also be aware of the daylight hours, which can be limited during the winter months. It’s essential to plan your hike accordingly and to bring a headlamp or flashlight in case you’re hiking late in the day.
- Summer: June to September
- Spring: May to June
- Fall: September to October
- Winter: Closed from October to May
What to Bring
Hikers should bring several essential items when hiking the Wickersham Creek Trail, including:
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Insulating layers, such as fleece or down
- Base layers, such as moisture-wicking shirts and leggings
- Bear spray and bear-resistant food container
- Water filter or purification tablets
- First aid kit and emergency shelter
- Map and compass or GPS device
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and sun hat
Hikers should also be prepared for changing weather conditions and to bring extra layers and a waterproof jacket.
Wildlife & Safety
The White Mountains National Recreation Area is home to a wide range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and caribou. Hikers should be aware of their surroundings and to take necessary precautions to avoid encounters with wildlife.
It’s essential to make noise while hiking, such as talking or wearing bear bells, to avoid surprising animals. Hikers should also stay in groups and to avoid hiking at dawn or dusk when animals are most active.
In case of a bear encounter, hikers should remain calm and to follow the proper protocol, such as speaking calmly and backing away slowly. It’s also essential to carry bear spray and to know how to use it properly.
Hikers should also be aware of other safety hazards, such as river crossings and steep terrain. It’s essential to exercise caution when crossing rivers and to use the provided footbridge if possible.
- Grizzly bears
- Moose
- Caribou
- River crossings
- Steep terrain
Photography Tips
The White Mountains National Recreation Area offers stunning photography opportunities, with its breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife, and unique geological formations. Hikers should bring a camera and to take advantage of the scenic views and wildlife encounters.
Some of the best viewpoints on the trail include the scenic overlook at the 6-mile mark and the Wickersham Creek Cabin. Hikers should also be on the lookout for wildlife, such as grizzly bears and moose, and to capture their encounters on camera.
The best time to take photos is during the golden hour, which is the hour just before sunset. The soft, warm light of the golden hour can add a magical touch to your photos and to capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
- Scenic overlook at the 6-mile mark
- Wickersham Creek Cabin
- Wildlife encounters, such as grizzly bears and moose
- Golden hour, the hour just before sunset
History & Background
The White Mountains National Recreation Area has a rich cultural and geological history, with evidence of human presence dating back thousands of years. The area was traditionally inhabited by the Athabascan people, who hunted and fished in the area and considered it a sacred place.
The recreation area was established in 1980, with the goal of preserving the area’s natural and cultural resources. Today, the area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.
The name “White Mountains” comes from the area’s unique geological formations, which are characterized by white limestone and granite rocks. The area is also home to several traditional Native American villages, where visitors can learn about the history and customs of the indigenous people.
Nearby Trails & Campgrounds
There are several nearby trails and campgrounds that offer additional hiking and camping opportunities. Some of the most popular trails in the area include the Beck Lake Trail and the Angel Creek Trail, both of which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
There are also several campgrounds in the area, including the Wickersham Creek Campground and the Beck Lake Campground, both of which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and access to hiking trails.
Hikers can also extend their trip by exploring the nearby Chena Hot Springs, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to soak in the natural hot springs.
- Beck Lake Trail
- Angel Creek Trail
- Wickersham Creek Campground
- Beck Lake Campground
- Chena Hot Springs