Copper River Trail

This is a moderately strenuous 0.5-mile loop with some elevation change and a few steeper sections. The complete loop follows the signed gravel Copper River Bluff Trail from its junction with the Boreal Forest Trail and returns to that junction; the mapped line is about 0.37 miles, while the official visitor distance is rounded to 0.5 mile. The scenic overlook is the route’s destination.

Park at the Wrangell–St. Elias Visitor Center in Copper Center, then follow the campus trail system to the Copper River Bluff Trail junction. The visitor center campus also provides restrooms, picnic areas, scenic overlooks, and other visitor facilities.

The bluff’s steeper gravel sections can be slick when wet. Alaska’s mosquitoes may be heavy in summer; carry repellent or a head net. Check with the visitor center for seasonal access and campus conditions. The parking-lot gate is locked at 5 p.m. in summer, the main entrance gate is locked year-round at 5 p.m., and overnight parking is not permitted.

Leashed pets are allowed on park trails; keep them close and clean up after them.