• Jumbo Mine/Castle Mountain, Alaska - Day Hike
• Bonanza Mine, Kennecott, Alaska - Day Hike
• Erie Mine - Alaska Day Hike Challenge
• Click here for fly-in day hikes...

CASTLE MOUNTAIN & JUMBO MINE - ALASKA ALPINE DAY HIKING ADVENTURE

For the adventurous traveler who would like to experience more of the rich history of Kennecott, Alaska, day hikes to Castle Mountan and the Jumbo Mine are an unforgettable experience. 

The hike begins at our office in the historic mill town of Kennecott where you will meet your mountain guide.  After making certain that everyone is properly equipped, you set off down the main street, making your way to the top of the red and white concentration mill and the old wagon road that leads to the mine.  With an elevation gain of 3,000’ in 5 miles, this day hike is not for the faint of heart.  However, there is ample opportunity to stop, rest, and take in breathtaking views of the Root and Kennicott Glaciers in the valley below.  The most notable of these stops is an historic junction station where aerial tramways (much like ski lifts) from the Jumbo and Glacier mines joined together into one as they transported the rich copper ore to the concentration mill.  The trail continues to gain elevation as you hike past wooden tram towers that still support their cables nearly 100 years after being constructed.  Nearing the top, the route becomes steeper and the trail crosses a rock glacier before finally ending at the ruins of the Jumbo Mine site.  The views from here are stunning with the Chitina River Valley and Chugach Mountains to the south and the majestic Castle Mountain rising above you to the north.  Keep your eyes peeled on the hike back down for Dall Sheep and even the occasional bear.     

$95 per person - available every day from May 21st to September 12th, 2010

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ERIE MINE BUNKHOUSE - ALASKA ALPINE DAY HIKING ADVENTURE

The journey to the 100-year old Erie Mine bunkhouse is a grand excursion and will challenge even the seasoned hiker. Perched high in the geological contact zone of the Wrangell Mountains, a thousand feet above the Root Glacier, the Erie bunkhouse is a hard to reach and rugged day of adventure. From the edge of the Root Glacier trail you will begin the journey upward to the bunkhouse. There are no trails once the climb has begun and the tricky nature of this alpine hike will leave you feeling rewarded and relieved you have an experienced guide along for the journey. From the scree-filled gully, where you begin your ascent, to the bunkhouse itself, the route involves steep side hill traversing, rock scrambling and good balance. Once there reward yourself with great views of the mile-high (1.6km) Stairway Icefall, 6,696ft (2,040m) Donoho Peak, and a well-earned lunch.

$95 per person
available every day from May 21st to September 12th, 2010

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There is a day adventure that fits every level of experience, age and physical condition. St. Elias Alpine Guides will supply all the specialized gear for each trip such as crampons for half day glacier walks; ropes, ice axes, and climbing equipment for a full day of ice climbing; emergency and First Aid kits for all outings; and experienced, trained guides. Participants need only bring their personal gear, an openness to the outdoors and a sense of adventure.

CLICK HERE FOR DAY TRIP PRICING