Both gravel roads are open year-round at Wrangell–St. Elias: what applies in 2026?

Exact conditions

Status

Not required; the stated access rule still applies

Applies to

vehicles

Place or corridor

McCarthy Road and Nabesna Road

Effective dates

January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026

Release model

first come

Exceptions and limits

• Both roads are usually passable to all vehicles during the summer months.
• Summer can have heavy rains and impassable streams; fall, winter and spring can have deep snow after storms.
• The roads are owned and maintained by the Alaska State DOT, not the National Park Service.
• Headquarters Visitor Center in Copper Center is open mid-May through mid-September; the gate there is open for day use only 9 am - 5 pm and is locked at 5 pm year-round.