Hike Jumbo Mine Trail, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska

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From the Kennecott Visitor Center, walk through the Kennecott Mill Town towards the Root Glacier. About a half mile beyond the visitor center the road will split. The trail to the Root Glacier will continue straight. To get to the Jumbo Mine turn right and hike up the hill. At the top of the frst switchback, turn left following the road up the hill. If you fnd yourself at the top of the mill building you have missed the turn. The road is steep. Approximately one mile up there is a directional sign to the Bonanza and Jumbo mines; go left of of the main trail to continue to the Jumbo transfer station and mine. The trail crosses Bonanza Creek approximately ½ mile after the split. The creek fow varies depending on the season. During early summer it is highest and crossing may result in wet feet. Approximately ¼ mile past Bonanza Creek there is a steep trail to the left. The old Jumbo transfer station is visible up this trail. To explore the transfer station either take this trail, or continue past this point to another easier access trail, also on the left. From the transfer station, enjoy the beautiful views of the Kennicott Valley and Chugach range to the south. From here the trail continues up to the Jumbo Mine. The trail narrows and crosses over some rocky and sandy areas as it ascends toward the scree slope leading to the mine site. Continue on the trail and cross the headwaters of Jumbo creek, which can be dry later in the summer. At this point the trail becomes less visible. Head toward the nearest tram cable tower. Near the tower, head up and around it to the right continuing up, staying on the lighter limestone rock slope. Generally head where the tram cables terminate, staying on the limestone rock as it ascends into the bowl, which is where the mine is located. Explore the mine site, where many relics of the Jumbo Mine’s buildings, tools and artifacts can be seen. Hazards: The buildings at the Jubmo Mine have not been stabilized and historic artifacts are scattered over the landscape. Please explore the site with care and do not enter the buildings. Mining and explosives experts have combed the historic mine structures in an efort to remove any abandoned explosives. However, if you fnd any abandoned explosives DO NOT TOUCH them. Please report them to a park ranger as soon as possible. Take standard precautions for hiking in bear country.

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