Attn Drivers - Help with McCarthy Rd
 

Hello,

I am very interested in adding Wrangell to my itinerary. But after reading some old posts about the condition of McCarthy Rd, I am not so sure. I will be renting a mid-size car (probably a Pontiac Grand-Am) for most of my trip. If I drive it slowly and carefully and maneuver around those crazy railroad spikes, would it be possible to avoid any mishaps on McCarthy Rd? I don't know if the car rental company will include a regular spare tire, so I really want to avoid a flat. Has anyone driven a non-SUV on McCarthy without any problems? Switching to an SUV for this part of my trip is an option, but SUVs aren't exactly flat-proof either.

Also, I've read that the "major car rental companies" don't allow their cars on this road. But how would they know where you drive the car? Obviously, I would pay for any damages to the car.

Thanks

Just a thought: what if you blow out 2 tires? You could be delayed longer than planned or you might not even find assistance on the road and would be forced to call the rental agency in either case.

If I blow 2 tires, then it would be a long, but scenic hike.

LoL. Great attitude! ;-) I needed a good laugh, Tom. We didn't go on that road because it was unpaved. When they say unpaved in Alaska, it is what we'd call a wagon trail in my neck of the woods. My dad told us before our trip that they were more like goat trails than roads. Others here, like BudgetQueen, have traveled Alaska extensively and can better advise you. If you decide to take your rental on the unpaved roads, you'd be wise to take all the coverage the rental company offers.

Good luck with your planning!

Sorry, but all rental contracts prohibit driving on this road. It also is in poor shape and seems to keep getting worse. Many cars have GPS systems.

If you choose to ignore this, you are also voiding all insurance. If you happen to hit someone, roll the car, cause damages, can run into big money. If you break down, can be hours before you get help. The spare tires are usually aren't top quality. I also would not consider this road without a SUV, you need the clearance.

Allow double the time you thing you'll need, average 15 mph.

So, I would first suggest you get a SUV that allows the drive. Some independents might.

The car rental companies know where you go from the GPS in the car. They will know.

We did not drive on this road but during our stay in Kennicott we were driven to the trail head about 3-4 miles from the bridge on McCarthy Road. It was one day after a rain and the road was very slippery. It was tough driving even for a local guy and not pleasant for us. I strongly suggest you consider taking a van shuttle or fly. Our flight included scenic route and it was spectacular.

http://www.nps.gov/wrst/mccarthyroad.htm

GoTravel is right, most of car rentals in Alaska have a tracking system. One more thing, SUV or not you may get a flat or two or three or something else may happen. On a positive note, there are many tire shops in Chitina. They will charge you accordingly (more than your round trip flight would cost you) depending to what part of the road they have to come and rescue you. Personally I rather go sightseeing or hiking than waiting many hours for someone to come and tow my car back to Chitina. Good luck in making smart choices and have a great time in beautiful Alaska

ttt