This Scenic 59-Mile Drive Just May Be The Most Underrated Adventure In Alaska

Are you looking for a wild and rugged adventure that will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of Alaska's pristine wilderness? Look no further than McCarthy Road: an underrated adventure in Alaska. This almost 60-mile road winds through the breathtaking Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, and offers stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and rivers along the way. But don't be fooled by its beauty – driving McCarthy Road is a challenge that requires a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle, and an adventurous spirit. So, if you're up for the challenge, buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of the most remote and untouched parts of the United States.

Alaska is known for its rugged terrain, pristine wilderness, and breathtaking views.

And while there are many ways to explore this vast and wild landscape, few experiences are as thrilling as driving the McCarthy Road. This underrated adventure is a must-do for anyone looking to get off the beaten path and experience the true beauty of Alaska.

So, what makes McCarthy Road so special?

For starters, it's one of the state's most remote and rugged roads. The road stretches almost 60 miles through the heart of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. This means you'll be driving through some of the most untouched wilderness in the country, with stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and rivers along the way.

But the best part of driving McCarthy Road is its sense of adventure and freedom.

This is not a road for the faint of heart, but for those who are up for the challenge. It's a chance to experience Alaska in a way few others ever will.

You'll be free to explore the wilderness at your own pace, stopping to take in the views or hiking nearby trails.

There is even some good fishing off of the road. And at night, you can camp under the stars in a pullout, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

One of the highlights of driving McCarthy Road is the opportunity to visit the historic town of McCarthy and the nearby Kennecott Mine.

The town is only accessible by foot, bike, or car, and it's like stepping back in time. The streets are lined with wooden buildings from the early 1900s, and a sense of frontier spirit still permeates the town.

But it's not just the scenery that makes McCarthy Road an adventure worth having.

The road is challenging, with steep grades, tight turns, and rough surfaces requiring a vehicle with high clearance and four-wheel drive. You'll need to be an experienced driver to tackle the road, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Driving McCarthy Road in Alaska is an underrated adventure every intrepid traveler should experience.

It's a chance to explore some of the country's most remote and rugged wilderness while immersing yourself in the fascinating history of the region. So, grab your four-wheel-drive vehicle and hit the road – adventure awaits!

Have you ever driven this underrated adventure in Alaska? What did you think? Did you love it? Let us know in the comments below! Get your gear for the trip at REI.

If you’re making a trip to McCarthy Road, read all about why it’s a great weekend getaway in Alaska.