Kennecott is a haunting and beautiful ghost town, lying near the remote town of McCarthy in Eastern Alaska. In a stunning valley ringed with seven glaciers, the remains of a huge mining operation stand against the Wrangell Mountains. Not only is Kennecott in a gorgeous part of Alaska, but the history of the mine is also a fascinating story of resources, World War I, western expansion, and Alaskan development in the aftermath of the Gold Rush. You can spend a gorgeous fall day wandering the ruins in the spooky ghost town of Kennecott.

The historic mining town of Kennecott is now a gorgeous National Historic Landmark. This haunting ghost town lying surrounded by glaciers in the Wrangell Mountains.
Aga1963 | TripAdvisor
The tale of Kennecott is one of westward expansion during World War I. Copper was discovered here and a multinational corporation grew an entire town around copper mining and refining.
Henry Chen | Flickr
From 1911 to 1938, the mine extracted and milled copper for the world and a company town grew up to house and nurture workers and families that braved this remote location for the work.
Alan Grinberg | Flickr
The self-contained town for the workers included a hospital, general store, school, skating rink, tennis court, recreation hall, and dairy.
carol mitchell | Flickr

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The ghost town lies in the Wrangell St. Elias National Park, a 13.2-million acre area of pristine Alaskan wilderness preserved for future generations.
Christoph Strässler | Flickr
Nestled in the mountains, Kennecott is a 5-mile stroll from the McCarthy town center. In the summer there is a shuttle, but in the fall you have to hike in or hire a private guide.
Aga1963 | TripAdvisor
As the 1920's came to a close, the supply of high-grade copper ore was running low and the Kennecott Copper Corporation focused its energies on other holdings. The mine was eventually closed to languish in the Alaskan wilderness.
Eugene Kogan | Flickr
The foot of the Kennicott Glacier lies just down a short path from the mine and you can continue your journey as far as you'd like with the help of a glacier hiking guided tour.
NPS CulturalLandscapes | Flickr
Kennecott is known as the best remaining example of early 20th Century copper mining. This family-friendly trip will appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
carol mitchell | Flickr

Kennecott Copper Mine
Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve, AK

Learn more about the Kennecott Mine here. Have you been to the ghost town Kennecott Mine? Tell us about it in the comments below.

While in the area, take a day trip as The Views At This Glacier Lodge In Alaska Will Leave You Speechless. And dine or stay here on your way since This Remote Lodge In Alaska Has The Most Fascinating Menu.

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