Chitina, AK

Travel Guide

A glacier surrounded by forested mountains.
A dense forest with a mountain range in the background.
A mountain lodge with a wooden structure and a snow-capped peak in the background.
A historic town with a prominent wooden structure on a hill, a wooden bridge, and red buildings.
A wooden boardwalk leading to a red building with a sign reading "KENNECOTT."
McCarthy Lodge Resort

McCarthy Lodge Resort

2.5 out of 5
101 Kennicott Avenue McCarthy AK
Stay at this resort in McCarthy. Enjoy free breakfast, 3 restaurants, and a free area shuttle. Popular attractions Wrangell - St. Elias National Park and Preserve ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (92 reviews)
"Nice historic motel. Rooms are small but accommodating. Excellent breakfast provided."

Reviewed on Sep 19, 2026

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McCarthy Lodge Resort
Blackburn Cabins

Blackburn Cabins

1 out of 5
Mile 1 Kennicott Wagon Road McCarthy AK
Stay at this cabin in Chitina. Enjoy a picnic area, memory foam beds, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum and ...
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Blackburn Cabins
Tents at the headwaters of the Kennicott River in marvelous McCarthy with WiFi

Tents at the headwaters of the Kennicott River in marvelous McCarthy with WiFi

McCarthy AK
$120 nightly
The price is $120 total per night from Oct 1 to Oct 2
$120 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this campground in Chitina. Popular attractions McCarthy Footbridge and McCarthy Road Information Station are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
"Tents are right near the river. Awesome to fall asleep listening to it go by. Host was friendly, gave water and showed how to use propane heater in tent"

Reviewed on Sep 12, 2026

Tents at the headwaters of the Kennicott River in marvelous McCarthy with WiFi
See all 28 properties in Chitina
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Blackburn Cabins

Blackburn Cabins

1 out of 5
Mile 1 Kennicott Wagon Road McCarthy AK
Stay at this cabin in Chitina. Enjoy a picnic area, memory foam beds, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum and ...
Blackburn Cabins
Tents at the headwaters of the Kennicott River in marvelous McCarthy with WiFi

Tents at the headwaters of the Kennicott River in marvelous McCarthy with WiFi

McCarthy AK
Stay at this campground in Chitina. Popular attractions McCarthy Footbridge and McCarthy Road Information Station are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
"Tents are right near the river. Awesome to fall asleep listening to it go by. Host was friendly, gave water and showed how to use propane heater in tent"

Reviewed on Sep 12, 2026

Tents at the headwaters of the Kennicott River in marvelous McCarthy with WiFi
Fireweed Mountain Lodge - Erie Cabin

Fireweed Mountain Lodge - Erie Cabin

McCarthy AK
Stay at this cabin in Chitina. Enjoy a garden and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions McCarthy Road Information Station and McCarthy Footbridge are located ...
Fireweed Mountain Lodge - Erie Cabin
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Chitina attractions

McCarthy Footbridge

9.6/10 (24 reviews)
After visiting McCarthy Footbridge, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in McCarthy. Discover the glaciers while you're in the area.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Chitina worth visiting?
Chitina is worth visiting for its standout attractions and experiences, offering travelers a chance to explore historical sites like the McCarthy Footbridge and the McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum. These provide insight into the area's past.
When is the best time to visit Chitina?
The best time to visit Chitina is from May through July, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of September through November are a good option, offering cooler temperatures as fall sets in.
What is Chitina known for?
Chitina is known for its McCarthy Footbridge, a prominent landmark. Travelers can also explore the McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum, offering insights into the area's history. The destination also features the natural beauty of McCarthy Creek.
What is a good itinerary length for Chitina?
A good itinerary length for Chitina is two to three days to explore highlights like the McCarthy Footbridge, McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum, and McCarthy Creek, plus enjoy a Half Day Root Glacier Hike. For a longer trip of four to five days, travelers can also experience a Glacial Lake Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour or another Half-Day Glacier Hike.
What are the top things to do in and around Chitina?
Chitina offers a blend of historical exploration and stunning glacial adventures:

  • Tour the Kennecott Mill Town to explore its historic mining past.
  • Hike the Root Glacier for an immersive outdoor experience.
  • Paddleboard on a glacial lake for a unique perspective.
  • Visit the McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum to learn about the area's heritage.
  • Cross the McCarthy Footbridge, a key access point to the region.

How do I plan a trip to Chitina?
To plan your trip to Chitina, search for places to stay on Expedia. Book flights, rental cars, and activities like the Glacial Lake Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour in advance. Visit McCarthy Footbridge and the McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility, ensuring a smooth trip.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Chitina?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Chitina by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Chitina with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Chitina trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Chitina?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Chitina can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Chitina trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Chitina trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Chitina trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Chitina trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Chitina?
If it's your first trip to Chitina, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Chitina hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Chitina hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Chitina

An industrial setting with large machinery, pipes, and wheels.

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A building with a sign reading "The New Golden Saloon."

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