We are going backcountry hiking in Wrangell-St. Ellias National Park in Alaska for 3 or for 4 days. Planning on renting a car in the Anchorage airport and driving to Chitina where we would park for 3-4 nights and take a plane to Kennicott. Anyone left a rental car in Chitina when visiting Wrangell NP? We are playing with an idea of staying at the Kennicott Glacier Lodge. Would like to learn about your experiences with visiting Wrangell National Park, Kennicott Lodge and flights from Chitina to kennicott. Thanks

We only did one day in Wrangell-St. Elias, but we also did the fly in, so left a car in Chitina at the airport (er, dirt air strip/field). Flying in is so common, I suspect this is typical, but contact whoever you are flying in with, and they can tell you for sure where to leave the car.

We only stayed for one day, but had a great time, and wish we had stayed longer. We walked around the old mining buildings, then took a hike - didn't see a bear, but a LOT of bear sign!

Flight in was beautiful, flying over glaciers and beautiful scenery. Oh, you can see glaciers from the town as well, and sort of walk out to the edge of them.

Can't comment on Kennicott Glacier Lodge - seems like it would be a fun experience, but a bit pricey.

We actually took the shuttle van back out to Chitina - cheaper than taking the plane back, and we wanted to experience the road and see the scenery. If you have the time, (and are up for the bouncing on the rough road!) I recommend this option.

Have fun! This is a GREAT park!

Anyone?

Last time we left our rental car for three days and everything was fine. We did not leave anything in it. Flights are very scenic on clear days and we love Kennicott Lodge.