This Abandoned Copper Mine In Alaska Is Like Nothing You’ve Seen Before

Alaska has a fascinating history, packed with tales of the gold rush, railroads, and settlers coming in to explore this beautiful state. One incredible historical landmark combines all three: the Kennecott Mine, an abandoned copper mine outside of McCarthy - also known as the Mother Lode Mine in Alaska - and tucked inside the gorgeous Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.

Kennecott Mine was open for business even before the railroad to the mine was completed, in 1911.

The first shipment of copper left the mine and was an estimated $250,000.00 worth of the mineral. It was ready to go just 11 days after the railroad was finished!

In its heyday, Kennecott had 300 people working at the mill in town.

200-300 more men worked up in the mines. But the mill and mines were only shut two days a year, July 4th and Christmas!

The town’s small hospital was the only building in town painted white.

Entire families lived in Kennecott year-round. The town had a recreational center, post office, general store, and skating rink, among other things.

Perhaps one of the most striking things about Kennecott is the unbelievable view.

When the town was constructed, however, the glacier was a hundred feet higher! You were unable to see the mountains on the other side of the valley.

The mines ended up producing almost $200 million dollars worth of copper before shutting down in 1938.

The town ended up being abandoned for 60 years, and this mine is one of about 760 abandoned mines in AK. The National Park Service and Friends of Kennecott organization work together to preserve as many of the buildings as they can.

Nowadays the National Park Service operates this historical landmark, which received its designation in 1986.

Many wonder, "Is the Mother Lode Mine open for tours?" There are informative, guided tours so that you can safely walk through the abandoned buildings and learn more about the history of the mine and town. The National Park Service even runs the old General Store, now a gift shop!

But is the Mother Lode Mine open for tours? Yes! There are informative, guided tours so that you can safely walk through the abandoned buildings and learn more about the history of the mine and town. The National Park Service even runs the old General Store, now a gift shop.

The inside is just as (or even more cool?) than the outside.

You can visit this fascinating trip back in time by heading out to Kennecott yourself!

You can find them at the end of the thrilling McCarthy Road. Hire a shuttle or hike up the four miles to get to Kennecott Mines, located inside Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve.

To learn more about this incredible piece of history, check out the Kennecott Mine page on the National Park Service website.  And be sure to contact the Kennecott Visitor Center with any questions! The Mother Lode Mine is open for tours, but hours do vary.

Have you ever visited Kennecott or any other abandoned places in Alaska? What did you think, and what other places have you visited? Let us know in the comments!

Headed out to see the mine? Make sure to check out more about McCarthy, Alaska - this surprising Alaska town is perfect for a weekend getaway! In fact, this cabin is packed with amenities AND views.