A Great Shorter Trip.
This is a rare treat in the park. Usually if you want to do a shorter trip you have to do a base camp or loop type trip. That's because backcountry airstrips are generally too far apart to allow for a point-to-point backpacking trek in just four days. So this one is perfect for those who are wanting a backpacking adventure but are limited to a shorter trip.

It's a quick flight from McCarthy into the Hidden Lake airstrip but you'll feel like we're hours away. This lovely valley is like a secret treasure in your backyard. It's a hidden alpine paradise with lots of secrets to discover along the way. In fact, exploration and flexiblity are the focus on this trip.

We land near Hidden Lake- a glacially dammed lake which usually breaks loose and drains around the July 4th. Our first day won't be a very long one. We'll set up camp and do some exploring around the area.

The next day we head the rest of the way down thus lush, green valley, taking our time to check out some interesting features like a couple of really cool waterfalls. At the end of the valley we head up and over the pass. There is usually snow at the pass which adds a new element to our trek. Put it's not too steep and we easily make our way up the snow. There may still be some ice on the lake at the pass but just over the other side and down a bit we come to some lovely little lakes set like emeralds in the green grass. We set up our camp near one of he lakes.

The third day we continue on down all the way to the edge of the Lakina glacier and the headwaters of the Lakina river. This is another day that allows plenty of time to check out some tempting side hikes and get some great views looking down on the Lakina.

We set up our final camp down on the flats near the river. On the fourth day we get picked up on a gravel bar landing strip for the quick ride back to McCarthy.

As we fly back over the Root glacier with McCarthy and Kennicott popping in to view, we'll be amazed that we could feel so remote and yet be so close to McCarthy.

If you opt for the full package including transportation, we've included an extra day in McCarthy after the trek as a free day to explore on your own. This is a good chance to hop the shuttle up to Kennicott and check out this historic copper mining site. You'll definitely want to take the guided tour.

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