When visiting the Mount Sanford region in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska, travelers are drawn to its vast, untouched wilderness. However, the allure of such a remote destination often comes with a price—both figuratively and literally. There are several amenities offered in and around the park that may seem appealing but are overpriced, especially considering the alternatives. In this article, we’ll explore six examples of amenities that, while luxurious or convenient, may not provide the best value for your money.
1. Luxury Lodging: Ultima Thule Lodge
One of the most notable high-end accommodations in the area is the Ultima Thule Lodge, which offers a premium wilderness experience deep inside the park. With prices starting at around $12,500 for a four-night stay, this lodge promises exclusivity, comfort, and adventure. Each day includes fly-out excursions over glaciers, wildlife viewing, and guided wilderness experiences. However, while the lodge is undeniably luxurious, the hefty price tag makes it an impractical option for many travelers who might otherwise enjoy the park through more budget-friendly lodging.
The lodge’s unique location and luxurious amenities, including gourmet meals and personalized excursions, are undoubtedly attractive, but this level of exclusivity comes at a steep cost. For travelers more concerned with experiencing the park itself rather than indulging in high-end services, opting for simpler accommodations closer to McCarthy or Kennicott may be a better choice.
2. Flightseeing Tours Over Glaciers
Flightseeing tours over the expansive glaciers and dramatic peaks of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offer a truly memorable experience. However, these tours often carry a high price, with costs ranging from $300 to $600 per person. While the opportunity to soar over Bagley Icefield or spot wildlife from the air is appealing, the price can be prohibitive for budget-conscious travelers.
If you’re willing to sacrifice the bird’s-eye view, there are plenty of ways to experience the grandeur of the glaciers from the ground, such as hiking to viewpoints or taking a guided tour on foot. However, for those set on seeing the park from above, it’s worth shopping around for different providers, as prices can vary widely based on the tour length and specific flight path.
3. Guided Glacier Hikes
Guided glacier hikes are another popular, but expensive, activity near Mount Sanford, especially around Kennicott and Root Glaciers. While these tours provide a safe and informative way to explore the glaciers, they can cost upwards of $100 per person. Many of these hikes require specialized equipment and experienced guides, which contributes to the high cost.
Alternatively, self-guided hikes on some of the easier trails in the park are free or low-cost, and still offer access to incredible landscapes and glacier views. For experienced hikers, taking advantage of public access points to explore without a guide can provide significant savings, though it’s essential to take safety precautions when trekking near glaciers.
4. Exclusive Wilderness Adventures
Some lodges and adventure companies offer exclusive wilderness experiences, such as multi-day guided expeditions or specialized fishing or hunting trips. These adventures are marketed as once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, often incorporating fly-in access to remote parts of the park. Prices for these packages can soar into the thousands of dollars, with some starting at $5,000 or more.
While these trips are ideal for travelers seeking solitude and a tailored experience, many aspects of the park can be accessed for free or at a much lower cost through self-guided exploration. Visitors willing to camp, hike, or drive themselves through the park can enjoy much of the same wildlife and scenery without paying for the premium of exclusivity.
5. Dining at Remote Lodges
Dining in the more remote areas of Wrangell-St. Elias can be expensive, especially at lodges like those in Kennicott and McCarthy. Because of the difficulty in transporting food supplies to these isolated locations, meal prices are often significantly higher than what travelers might expect elsewhere in Alaska. For instance, it’s not uncommon to pay $50 or more per person for a basic dinner at one of the local lodges.
For those looking to save money, consider packing your own meals or purchasing supplies from larger towns before entering the park. There are also public-use cabins and campgrounds where travelers can prepare their own food, which not only reduces costs but also allows for more flexibility in meal options.
6. Shuttle Services to Remote Areas
Shuttle services from Chitina to McCarthy, or between various points within the park, are a convenient way to get around, especially for visitors without off-road capable vehicles. However, these shuttles can be expensive, especially considering the relatively short distances involved. For example, some shuttle services charge upwards of $100 for a round trip from Chitina to McCarthy.
For those with their own transportation, driving to these locations can be a more affordable option, though it requires navigating some rough roads. Additionally, car rentals in larger towns like Anchorage or Fairbanks may provide more flexibility and could be a better value if you plan to explore multiple areas during your trip.
Conclusion
While Mount Sanford and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offer some of the most incredible natural experiences in the United States, the high cost of certain amenities can quickly add up. From luxury lodges to exclusive wilderness adventures, there are plenty of ways to spend money in the park. However, for travelers who want to experience this stunning wilderness without breaking the bank, there are several budget-friendly alternatives available. By opting for self-guided hikes, packing your own meals, and carefully selecting your excursions, you can enjoy the beauty of Mount Sanford without falling into the trap of overpriced amenities.
