Wrangell St. Elias Nat’l Park Where To Stay

The Ultima Thule Lodge offers you two extremes—though extremes of the best kind possible. This unique and private lodge is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Alaska—they’ve hosted both the rich and famous—but it’s also tucked inside the vast wilds of the nation’s largest, and most remote, national park. Second generation hosts, Paul and Donna Claus (he an internationally revered bush pilot, she a retired ski racer and first class chef) offer a personalized, bush-safari experience that is equal parts plush splendor and authentic adventure.

The Alaskan Kennicott Glacier Lodge is a replica of one of the historic copper-mining buildings. It’s a luxurious property that sits in the heart of the ghost town and the center of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, surrounded by spruce and mountains. Curl up by the fireplace with a book, enjoy the home-cooked meals, and linger with a glass of wine on the deck that nearly juts out over the Kennicott Glacier. Choose from either the Main Lodge, or the New South Wing – then venture out to tour the Historic Mill, or go on a Glacier Trek.

This private lodging business may be the ultimate way for independent travelers to stay in the famously just-off-the-grid McCarthy. They're located just before the footbridge leading into town, so you can park your car right by your private guest house —without the hassle of parking and having your stuff schlepped over the bridge. A favorite among locals and visitors alike, the modern guest houses have great views of the Wrangell St. Elias National Park from their decks. You will also find full kitchens, solar power and free access to a seasonal veggie garden to supplement your meals. 

Want to find out where Alaskans take their visitors? Visit McCarthy Lodge and the Ma Johnson Hotel for an experience National Geographic calls “authentic, sustainable, memorable.” McCarthy offers small-town charm nestled among spectacular glaciers and mountains – in a national park twice the size of Denali. Equally impressive is that it is the only accommodation and restaurant recommended by Michelin Guide for the McCarthy-Kennicott area. It’s off-the-beaten path, but its authentic flavor and fine dining options make it worth the trip. We call it progressive-remote. You might call it heaven.