Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark is found within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. This early 1900's copper mining operation overcame numerous challenges and found success in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness.
Wrangell-St. Elias is a vast national park that rises from the ocean all the way up to 18,008 ft. At 13.2 million acres, the park is the same size as Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Switzerland combined! Within this wild landscape, people continue to live off the land as they have done for centuries. This rugged, beautiful land is filled with opportunities for adventure.
On the morning of July 10th, local observers noted that the level of Hidden Creek Lake has begun to fall. This is consistent with conditions that often precede the release of water into the Kennicott River. Residents and visitors should use caution if or when water rises and can get updates about river level from the US Geological Survey. These conditions can be dangerous for anyone on the Kennicott River or downstream rivers and streams such as the Chitina and Copper Rivers.
Fire danger is high in Alaska, and it is peak wildfire season. Even after rain, many areas remain dry or dry quickly. If a wildfire starts, it could spread quickly. With Independence Day approaching, please stay fire wise and put out campfires.
Federal subsistence fishing in the Upper Copper River District will open on May 15, 2025. This fishing opportunity is available to qualified local rural residents and a federal permit is required. The permit is a household permit, and only one permit will be issued per household for a given subdistrict. Subsistence fish wheels should be registered by the owner through either the National Park Service or the Glennallen office of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.