Share the feeling of discovery and adventure

This trek was the first in the Explorer Series of routes that have never or rarely been done and are new to Trek Alaska. Wilderness experience and a desire for a true Alaskan adventure are required.

The summer of 2006 was the first time we have taken clients into this wild and remote corner of the park. This is a rugged and challenging trip that is not for everyone. But if you are looking for a trip that is as rewarding as it is demanding then this is a good one.

	Breathtaking and unexplored country

We'll land our Super Cub just south of Martin Creek itself as there are no places to land in the Martin Creek drainage. But that won't deter us from checking it out. We'll start with a two day loop into the Martin Creek region to explore before returning to our original valley.

Once back at our lake we'll head on down the valley and plot a route through an extensive and demanding boulder field that covers the entire valley.

Our route leads us up and over a saddle, over some moraine and a section of steeper glacial ice. Once off the glacier we will explore the ridge top for good campsites. The hike along the ridge offers excellent views of the Tana Glacier below where it forms the headwaters of the Tana River. The hike down off the ridge involves some careful routefinding. The last section includes a bit of frictioning down some moderate rock slabs on our way to the Tana. There will be some of bushwhacking on this section but nothing too horrific.

	Explore rarely traveled wilderness

We spend the better part of a day hiking across the Tana Glacier. This is not a simple crossing as we need to avoid crevassed sections. There might be time when we are forced to backtrack to find an easier route.

Then it's up onto Thompson Ridge which is covered in blueberries in August. This ridge is a lovely spot with several small lakes that can be difficult to find. An extra day will be spent (time allowing) exploring the upper reaches of Thompson Ridge. Then it's down to the airstrip for our return flight to McCarthy Alaska.

The trek costs slightly more due to the remoteness of the dropoff airstrip. But if you are looking for something a little more challenging then this is one to consider. Participants should have some prior backpacking experience but mostly be in good condition and have a sense of adventure.

Want to see more pictures of this trek? Request our CD filled with slideshows of our adventures.

Contact us if you would like to know more about this alaskan adventure.