Iceberg Lake Trail Bears: A Challenging Backpacking Adventure in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, located in southeastern Alaska, is a true wilderness enthusiast's paradise. With its vast glaciers, towering mountains, and pristine lakes, the park offers some of the most spectacular backpacking trips in the United States. One such route that stands out for its sheer remoteness and challenging terrain is the Iceberg Lake to Bremner Mine trail, also known as the Seven Pass Route.

Before embarking on this adventure, it's essential to note that there are no established trails to follow, making navigation a crucial aspect of this trip. Hikers will need to use their skills and experience to find their way across glaciers, rivers, climb high mountain passes, and bushwhack through thick alders. The route spans approximately 40 miles, as the crow flies, and requires a significant amount of physical and mental endurance.

The best time to attempt this trip is during the summer months when the weather is warmest and most accessible by small bush plane from McCarthy, the only way to access this remote area. However, it's crucial to be prepared for changing weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.

For those who are up for the challenge, Iceberg Lake to Bremner Mine offers breathtaking scenery and a true wilderness experience like no other. Hikers will have the opportunity to witness stunning glaciers, majestic mountain peaks, and picturesque lakes, as well as encounter an abundance of wildlife, including bears.

In this post, I'll share my personal experience backpacking this route in July, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that came with navigating this unforgiving terrain. If you're interested in tackling this adventure, be sure to plan carefully, bring necessary gear and supplies, and stay informed about weather conditions and potential hazards. With the right mindset and preparation, Iceberg Lake to Bremner Mine is an unforgettable backpacking trip that will push your limits and leave you with lifelong memories.

Traditional Land Acknowledgment:

I would like to acknowledge that this adventure took place on the traditional lands of the Ahtna people. It's essential to recognize the rich cultural heritage and historical significance of these lands, and I encourage readers to visit Native-Land.ca to learn more about whose land you live, work, or play on.

Maps and Resources:

For those planning to tackle this route, I recommend consulting maps and books such as Elias National Park and Preserve (National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map) and Elias National Park and Preserve Maps and Resources. Additionally, Visit Native-Land.ca for information on traditional lands and cultural significance.

Remember, Iceberg Lake to Bremner Mine is not a trail for beginners; it's essential to have prior backpacking experience and be prepared for the physical and mental demands of this challenging route. With careful planning, preparation, and respect for the land and its people, this adventure can be an unforgettable experience in one of North America's most breathtaking national parks.

Iceberg lake trail bears