Kennicott Glacier Lodge — Hotel in Alaska

We absolutely loved our visit to Wrangell NP and a big part was staying here. We've stayed in facilities in other parks the last few years (Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Sequoia) and this was the best one. In a few ways it may have been simple/basic, but they were really making an effort and it shows. I don't think it's a park concessioner which probably helps that it's privately owned. My notes:|-The road: yes it's dirt, but it wasn't nearly as bad as I feared. We did it in under 2 hours each way despite having budgeted a 3-4 hour drive just in case|-The footbridge: when you get there parking is to the left of it in a lot that other people would pay for if they're not staying at the lodge. check in at the shack and get a sign for your dashboard. grab a wagon to roll your stuff across the bridge. if you're taking a bigger Alaska trip like we were consider segmenting your bags so you only have to bring what you need. Didn't think of that after the fact.|-The shuttle: We found this to be a little confusing on the way in because there's a few options. The hotel shuttle didn't start til noon but we were there around 10. We ended up walking to McCarthy hanging out a bit and then taking the $5 shuttle to the hotel. It was worth it not to have to wait, or walk back to the footbridge. kids are free on the local shuttle as well. on the way back it was easy, we reserved our time for a shuttle at the front desk and it was right on time and they helped with the bags. |-The hotel: we stayed two nights in the south wing (private bath) two beds, great view, good water pressure/temp. What else do you really need? coffee was available in the main lodge in the morning. between the two buildings I think there were three common rooms/area with board games etc which our kids loved. the grounds were lovely to have a beverage and enjoy the stunning views. I noted to my spouse how comfy the beds were and he noted back they probably only get used a few months a year! |-Dining: Because of our timing and wanting to explore a little (eating in McCarthy and the meatza wagon) we did the breakfast only package, and then chose to eat at the lodge one of our two nights. Dinner was wonderful, and they do have a children's menu available. We were there a filet night and all the courses were done well and enjoyed by us. Breakfast buffet was totally fine. Eggs/meats/pastry/pancakes and cofee/tea/cocoa/juices. service was also good. |-The park: We did two excursions with St Elias and loved both (packrafting, and half day hike) If our kids were a little older would love to have done more, but both of our tours were great and the guides...

The lodge is lovely, very comfortable, and in a perfect location for exploring Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. The St. Elias Alpine Guides (great for day trips like a glacier hike, rafting, etc) have an office/meetup point just steps away from the lodge.||We stayed in the newer South Wing where rooms have private bathrooms, and our room was very comfortable, with plenty of space including storage space. These rooms are more expensive than in the main lodge, but if you want a private bathroom, you need to book the South Wing. (And the only complaints I've seen/heard about this lodge is from people who had problems with shared bathrooms.) The first floor rooms in the South Wing also have back doors that open onto a nice porch with chairs behind each room -- nice for sitting in the evening.||The lodge is decorated with historic memorabilia from the time when the town of Kennicott was a copper-mining town (early 20trh century), and that adds a nice touch to the lodge. The staff are all very helpful -- both at the lobby desk and in the dining room. We got the full meal plan which I recommend. The food is good -- with a couple of dinners being just fine and a couple being excellent. Any day when you'll be off on a hike or other day trip, you can order a bag lunch. Their particular strength is their baked goods (at breakfast and also the huge cookies in the bag lunches). Also, unless you bring in your own food, there aren't a lot of other food options in the area -- and if you want to have dinner in the town of McCarthy one night as we did (5 miles away and there's a shuttle), you can "bank" your missed meal and get a bag lunch on your departure day.||We arrived by driving from Anchorage, including driving the famous 60-mile long McCarthy Road. This worked well for us. The McCarthy Road is scenic and although it's still unpaved and full of potholes, it's apparently in much better condition than years ago and as long as you take your time (2 hours to drive the 60 miles), it's fine. Then, you park your car at the end of the McCarthy Road, walk across the footbridge, and the lodge picks you up in a shuttle -- about a 20 minute drive. Alternatively, you can fly...

Tucked away in the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the Kennicott Glacier Lodge isn't just a place to stay - it is an integral part of an adventure. ||The lodge’s setting is simply spectacular. Panoramic views of the Kennicott and Root Glaciers and the towering peaks of the Wrangell Mountains are spectacular - a camera simply will not do them justice. The air is crisp, the silence profound, and the sense of isolation is exactly what you come here for. The historic Kennecott Mill town - a ghost of its copper-mining past - is just a short walk away and offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.||Inside the lodge, there is a rustic charm that is both welcoming and comforting. The accommodations are clean, cozy, and thoughtfully designed to be a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration. It is a place to truly disconnect since there are no televisions or telephones to distract. Instead, simply soak in the magnificent views from the main lodge’s deck.||The dining experience is a highlight in itself. The meals are hearty, delicious, and surprisingly gourmet for such a remote location. Everything from the freshly baked bread and pastries to the expertly prepared main courses is a testament to the lodge's commitment to quality. The communal/family-style dining setup fosters a friendly, social atmosphere that enhances the feeling of being part of a shared, once-in-a-lifetime journey.||The staff at Kennicott Glacier Lodge are exceptional. Their passion for the region and dedication to their guests is evident in every interaction. They are knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to offer advice on the best hikes, a quick history lesson, or a recommendation for a local tour. Their guidance makes exploring the vast wilderness feel both safe and incredibly rewarding.||Kennicott Glacier Lodge is the perfect choice for experiencing the raw, untouched beauty of Alaska without sacrificing comfort and hospitality. It 's more than just lodging - it is an experience that will stay with you long after you have left the magnificent glaciers and soaring...