Plane + Human Powered Fun

Could there be a better way to explore 13.2 million acres of gorgeous wilderness than a bush plane drop-off followed by trekking glacial landscapes and boating out to civilization? We can’t think of one. The ever-more-popular sport of packrafting is enjoyed in this seemingly endless place of countless rivers, creeks, and bodies of water waiting to be explored. It’s no wonder that McCarthy, Alaska is the Packrafting Capital of the World.

Packrafting Newbies and Resources for All

Those who would like to “get their feet wet” with packrafting are encouraged to participate in a 2-day course provided by Kennicott Wilderness Guides. These courses (Level I and Level II) cover the skills that you’ll need to paddle through the wilderness on your own. They focus on not only the technical skills necessary to push into the wild rivers here, but also teach self - and group -rescue techniques as well as risk management and good river decision making.

Additional resources to check out include The Packraft Handbook by Alaska’s own Luc Mehl along with his Packrafting Trip Reports. Coming soon is The Alaska Packraft Guidebook which will describe river routes specifically for packrafting: water levels, times of year, rapid classification, portage descriptions, and best day-trips / overnight trips (1-3 days) on class I-IV whitewater… all with color photos and professionally made topo maps.

Bring Your Friends, and Pack Your Adventure

Many packrafters like to be flown directly to a river bar or confluence where they can begin their water adventure. Others prefer to trek a few days to the put in spot; there are a good number of drop-off spots in the Park that are within reach, given some spectacular backcountry hiking, of great rivers to boat. Either way, packrafters become one with the very veins of this fabulous wilderness. So choose your route, grab your gear, pick your pack-pals and start your adventure.

For inspiration, check out these photos from a group of friends who did the “Tana Ice Circuit” and packrafted their way out:

2024 SEASON BACKCOUNTRY DROP-OFF / PICKUP PRICING

Prices for trips are dependent on the number of people, boats, and gear. Please email with weights of all passengers and the estimated weight of the gear and we’ll estimate the cost of your trip.

The rivers are glacial in source, fast, frigid, and require extra skill and caution. Note that Wrangell Mountain Air provides transportation only and we recommend visitors hire a local guide service to ensure the best experience possible. Kennecott Wilderness Guides are our local packarafting experts. Additionally, the National Park Service can be an excellent resource for folks planning their backcountry adventure and may be emailed directly.

WEIGHT/FREIGHT CAPACITY

Cessna 185: 850lbs
Beaver: 1100lbs
Cub: 260lbs

Weight/freight capacity depending on fuel requirements. Weather conditions may decrease load carrying capacity and require an additional airplane.

Reservations

Full payment is required for each reservation. You will receive a confirmation letter via e-mail after your payment has been received. Reservations made through our online portal will receive a payment request which must be met within 3 days to maintain confirmed status. 

Cancellation Policy

All flights cancelled by Wrangell Mountain Air due to weather will receive a full refund. Cancellations received up until 24 hours prior to a flight result in a 10% cancellation fee of total flight cost. No refunds will be issued for a cancellation made within 24 hours of the flight.

Fuel Surcharge

Due to the fluctuating cost of fuel recently, all flights may be subject to a fuel surcharge.

And Just For Fun

Here’s a little video summary of the Tana Traverse and packrafting trip mentioned above with a link to Erik’s blog post on the trip.