What Are The Tourist Places Nearest to Saint Elias Mountains?

Saint Elias Mountains Nearby Attractions

The Saint Elias Mountains, a formidable and awe-inspiring mountain range located at the convergence of Alaska, Canada, and the Yukon Territory, offer a captivating experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. With their soaring peaks, vast glaciers, and pristine wilderness, the Saint Elias Mountains attract travelers from around the globe. However, the surrounding regions are not to be overlooked, as they too boast a wealth of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique attractions. In this blog post, we will journey beyond the Saint Elias Mountains to explore the tourist places nearest to this remarkable North American range.

Kluane National Park and Reserve, Canada

Location:

Yukon Territory, Canada

• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains:
• Adjacent to the eastern edge of the range

About Kluane National Park:

Kluane National Park and Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a wilderness paradise that borders the eastern edge of the Saint Elias Mountains. Home to Canada’s highest peak, Mount Logan, and countless glaciers, Kluane offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and mountaineering. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from alpine tundra to boreal forests, while keeping an eye out for grizzly bears, Dall’s sheep, and bald eagles.

 Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA

• Location:
• Alaska, United States
• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains:
• Part of the range, adjacent to the western side

About Wrangell-St. Elias National Park:

Adjacent to the western side of the Saint Elias Mountains lies Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, the largest national park in the United States. This remote wilderness area is known for its towering peaks, glaciers, and historic mining sites. Visitors can explore the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, hike along pristine trails, and witness the unparalleled beauty of the park’s natural wonders.

Haines, Alaska, USA

• Location: Southeast Alaska, United States
• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains: Approximately 100 miles southwest

About Haines:

Haines, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Chilkat Valley, is a picturesque destination known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, go kayaking on the Chilkoot River, and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Tlingit people. Haines offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

Skagway, Alaska, USA

• Location: Southeast Alaska, United States
• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains: Approximately 80 miles southwest

About Skagway:

Skagway, a historic town on the Inside Passage, is a gateway to the wild beauty of Alaska’s southeastern coast. Known for its gold rush history, Skagway offers visitors the chance to step back in time with guided tours of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. The town also serves as a starting point for cruises and scenic rail journeys into the rugged Alaskan wilderness.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA

• Location: Southeast Alaska, United States
• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains: Approximately 250 miles southwest

About Glacier Bay National Park:

While Glacier Bay is a bit farther from the Saint Elias Mountains, it’s well worth the journey. This pristine wilderness area is famous for its tidewater glaciers, fjords, and rich marine life. Visitors can take boat tours to witness calving glaciers, spot humpback whales, and explore the park’s diverse ecosystems. It’s a remarkable destination for those seeking a deeper connection with Alaska’s coastal wonders.

Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

• Location: Yukon Territory, Canada
• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains: Approximately 250 miles north

About Whitehorse:

Whitehorse, the capital of Canada’s Yukon Territory, is a vibrant city nestled in a stunning natural setting. It serves as a gateway to the wilderness of the Yukon and is a popular stop for travelers exploring the region. Visitors can learn about the Klondike Gold Rush at the MacBride Museum, enjoy outdoor activities along the Yukon River, and soak in the local culture through art galleries and live performances.

Dawson City, Yukon, Canada

• Location: Yukon Territory, Canada
• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains: Approximately 350 miles north

About Dawson City:

Dawson City, a historic town steeped in Gold Rush lore, offers a unique blend of history and adventure. Travelers can explore the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, try their luck at gold panning, and experience the vibrant arts and culture scene. The town’s iconic Midnight Dome offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.

Valdez, Alaska, USA

• Location: Southcentral Alaska, United States
• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains: Approximately 160 miles west

About Valdez:

Valdez, situated along the picturesque Prince William Sound, is a coastal paradise known for its stunning fjords, glaciers, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can take glacier cruises, go sea kayaking, and hike in the nearby Chugach Mountains. The town also hosts annual events celebrating its rich maritime heritage.

 Haines Junction, Yukon, Canada

• Location: Yukon Territory, Canada
• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains: Approximately 100 miles north

About Haines Junction:

Haines Junction is a tranquil community located at the crossroads of the Alaska Highway and the Haines Highway. It offers access to Kluane National Park and Reserve and serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. The St. Elias Convention Centre in town offers insights into the region’s cultural and natural heritage.

 Juneau, Alaska, USA

• Location: Southeast Alaska, United States
• Distance from Saint Elias Mountains: Approximately 200 miles southwest

About Juneau:

Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is nestled between towering mountains and the pristine waters of the Inside Passage. Visitors can explore the Alaska State Museum, take a scenic tramway ride up Mount Roberts, and embark on wildlife cruises to nearby fjords. Juneau is a vibrant hub for culture, history, and outdoor exploration.

Conclusion

While the Saint Elias Mountains themselves are a magnet for adventurers and nature lovers, the surrounding regions offer a rich tapestry of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences. From the towering peaks of Kluane National Park to the historic streets of Dawson City, each destination near the Saint Elias Mountains has its own story to tell and adventures to offer. Whether you’re drawn to the wilderness, history, or vibrant communities, the areas nearest to the Saint Elias Mountains beckon travelers to explore and discover the wonders that lie just beyond the horizon.