FIREWEED MOUNTAIN LODGE
McCarthy, Alaska
$1,375,000
5± Acres
INTRODUCTION
Discover a truly extraordinary property in one of Alaska’s most iconic and awe-inspiring locations. Nestled just outside the historic town of McCarthy, this 5± acre gem offers a rare blend of natural beauty, modern comforts, and entrepreneurial potential — all within the majestic Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Once a thriving copper mining town, McCarthy has become one of Alaska’s most sought-after destinations — second only to Denali National Park in visitor popularity. Unlike other former mining towns that have long since been transformed, McCarthy retains its authentic character while standing on the brink of upscale development. National Geographic and other major publications have featured this region for its raw beauty, rich history, and unmatched adventure potential.
Located at Mile 59 of McCarthy Road, this property offers something incredibly rare: full drive-up access on the west side of the Kennecott River. You can pull straight into the garage, unload supplies with ease, and enjoy the convenience of being just 1.5 miles from McCarthy’s town center by foot, bike, or ATV. Several nearby landing options for pilots include a gravel airstrip only 0.1± miles from the property line.
Thoughtfully developed with deep respect for the natural surroundings, this turnkey homestead features a 2,600± square foot modern main home and three beautifully crafted log cabins, all set up for comfortable, off-grid living. Every essential amenity is covered with a DEC-approved five-bedroom septic system, two producing wells (75-foot residential and 85-foot commercial), and high-capacity generators.
Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat, a launchpad for adventure tourism, or a unique investment property, this extraordinary slice of Alaskan paradise offers it all — privacy, access, history, and potential. Step into a lifestyle that combines rugged independence with refined living, surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery on Earth.
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
QUICK FACTS
• Features 330± feet of creek frontage from Fireweed Mountain
• Surrounded on three sides by Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve land
• No property taxes due to McCarthy being outside a designated borough
• One 200± gallon fuel tank (4 years old) for cabins
• Property is “Fire Wised” and approved by the Alaska Dept. of Forestry
• Reachable by car, truck, ATV, or snow machine at mile 59 of McCarthy Road
• Gravel airstrip located 0.1± miles away
• McCarthy Airport is 1.5± miles east, across the Kennicott River
• DEC-approved, 5-bedroom septic installed in 2018
• 110V and 220V wiring throughout property
• Two Honda 2200 generators
• 7kW Honda Boss & 10kW Westinghouse generators on-site
• The main house has a Blaze King wood stove & Toyo 73 oil stove
• 75-foot residential well and 85-foot commercial well, both year-round
• Generator shed and an 11’ x 28’ woodshed (built in 2024) for wood and equipment
• Cell service via Verizon/Copper Valley; hotspot internet available; Starlink considered for 2025
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
SCENIC VISTAS
The property offers direct, unobstructed views of the surrounding mountain ranges, glaciers, and historic Kennecott mining structures, providing a constant visual connection to the area’s natural and cultural landmarks. Large northand south-facing windows in the main house are strategically placed to maximize daylight and capture panoramic vistas throughout the year, including the northern lights in winter. The elevated Trex deck and private cabin locations each offer unique sightlines across the landscape, ensuring that every structure on the property benefits from the dramatic scenery of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
INCOME OPPORTUNITY
This property presents a strong income opportunity through its turnkey lodging infrastructure and prime location in one of Alaska’s most visited and visually stunning destinations. With three fully furnished log cabins—each privately situated and designed for guest comfort—the parcel is ideally suited for short-term vacation rentals or high-end eco-tourism lodging. The main house provides additional flexibility for owner occupancy, premium rental space, or retreat hosting, while independent utilities, including a DEC-approved septic system and two productive wells, support scalable, off-grid operations. Built with durability and guest appeal in mind, this investment is poised to generate steady revenue in a rapidly growing market.
www.fayranches.com | 800.238.8616 | info@fayranches.com
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
BUILDINGS LODGE
The lodge is a stunning 2,600± square-foot, twostory retreat that perfectly blends modern comfort with the rugged charm of its pristine Alaskan surroundings. Designed with intention and craftsmanship, this off-grid home features a solid concrete foundation, Hardie board siding, a durable steel roof, and premium materials throughout. Large Alpine windows—double and triple-paned— flood the living space with natural light and frame sweeping views of the Wrangell Mountains and Kennecott Glacier. Upstairs, the open-concept living and dining area boasts hickory cabinets, a tongue-and-groove spruce wood floor, birch trim, and two cozy lofts ideal for lounging or additional sleeping. The private upper-level bathroom and mudroom open onto a spacious 1,200± square-foot Trex deck that faces north, offering unbeatable vistas of the surrounding peaks and historic mining town. Downstairs, you’ll find a comfortable office/ bedroom, pantry, mechanical room, a two-car garage, and two private exterior-entry bathrooms— ideal for accommodating cabin guests. This beautifully built, code-compliant home is a rare find in rural Alaska, offering off-grid independence and premium amenities.
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
BUILDINGS CABINS
The three handcrafted log cabins offer the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, designed to immerse guests in the serenity and beauty of the Wrangell-St. Elias wilderness. Each cabin is a spacious 16’ x 20’ with a half loft, offering 320± square feet of thoughtfully utilized space. Perched on individual building pads for easy relocation if desired, the cabins are privately situated across the landscape, connected by glacial rock paths and oriented to capture unique mountain views. Each is fully furnished with new mattresses, futons, dining furniture, and tasteful decor that enhances the natural surroundings. One cabin features an oil-drip stove that operates independently of electricity, offering cozy, unplugged comfort. All cabins are wired for electricity from the main house, with lighting, ceiling fans, and optional amenities. Outside, guests can relax on their private decks, soaking in the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness. These cabins are not only a peaceful retreat for friends and family but also an excellent income opportunity.
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
BUILDINGS OUTBUILDINGS
A well-ventilated generator shed, positioned 150 feet from the main house, safely houses the primary and backup generators while offering additional storage. Nearby, an 11’ x 28’ woodshed, completed in 2024, holds up to six cords of firewood and provides room for storing ATVs and gear. A 12’ x 16’ outdoor cooking area has a raised, treated lumber platform and propane stove. A central outhouse built in 2019 adds convenience for cabin guests. The entire property is securely enclosed with a 4-barbed wire fence that follows the land’s natural contours.
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
FISHING
For fishing enthusiasts, this property places you in the heart of some of Alaska’s most exceptional freshwater angling opportunities. Just 10± miles away on McCarthy Road, Long Lake is a popular local destination, offering excellent fishing for lake trout, Arctic grayling, and burbot. Additional lakes along McCarthy Road, especially toward Chitina, provide peaceful, scenic spots for casting a line. The nearby rivers and streams, fed by glacial runoff, support seasonal salmon runs, including sockeye (red) salmon in the Chitina River system, king (Chinook) salmon in the larger Copper and Chitina Rivers, and coho (silver) salmon in late summer and fall. Anglers can also enjoy catching rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, Arctic grayling, and whitefish throughout the surrounding waters. Whether fly fishing in a mountain stream or relaxing on a quiet lakeshore, world-class fishing awaits just beyond your doorstep.
Lake Trout - Photo not taken on property
Coho Salmon- Photo not taken on property
Arctic Grayling- Photo not taken on property
Dolly Varden- Photo not taken on property
HUNTING | WILDLIFE
Wildlife enthusiasts and hunters alike will find this McCarthy property a true gem in the heart of one of North America’s most vibrant and untouched ecosystems. Nestled within the Wrangell-St. Elias National Preserve—where regulated sport and subsistence hunting are permitted— this parcel lies in Alaska’s renowned Game Management Unit 11, an area celebrated for its rich biodiversity and world-class hunting grounds. Moose, brown and black bears, lynx, and wolves are frequently seen on and around the property, offering unforgettable moments of wildlife viewing and tracking right from your doorstep.
The surrounding highlands host Dall sheep and mountain goats, while bald eagles, golden eagles, and migratory birds soar above in warmer seasons. Whether observing nature’s raw beauty, photographing majestic animals, or pursuing game with the appropriate permits, McCarthy offers a rare blend of rugged wilderness and peaceful immersion in the natural world.
Moose - Photo not taken on property
Lynx - Photo not taken on property
Bear - Photo not taken on property
Bald Eagle - Photo not taken on property
17 Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
Exploring McCarthy and its surroundings offers a rich blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. You can walk, bike, or ride an ATV around the area, with local van shuttle services available to take you from the east side of the the footbridge to explore even more. Visitors driving into the area can park near the footbridge for a fee, then continue on foot, by bike, or via shuttle.
Wildlife sightings are common, so keep a curious eye out for lynx, foxes, moose, and both black and grizzly bears as you roam. For a more immersive experience, local guides and wilderness outfitters offer a wide range of activities:
• Glacier hiking and ice climbing
• Backcountry trekking and alpine adventures
• Rafting and flightseeing tours
• Historical tours of the area
• Just five miles from McCarthy lies Kennecott, a National Historic Landmark and a must-see former copper mining town. You can tour the iconic mill building there and explore remnants of early 20th-century industrial life. Root Glacier, accessible via a trail from Kennecott, is popular for guided glacier hikes and ice climbing. McCarthy also hosts art, music, and science events throughout the year. For those wanting to dive deeper into the wilderness, backcountry trails lead to pristine alpine lakes and dramatic mountain passes. And don’t miss the drive along the McCarthy Road—a scenic 60± mile route filled with historic bridges, wildlife, and sweeping views. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, McCarthy is the perfect base for discovering the remote magic of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Photo not taken on property
Photo not taken on property
Photo not taken on property
AREA HISTORY
The history of the Kennecott-McCarthy area is one of ambition, innovation, and endurance set against the backdrop of some of the most remote and majestic terrain in North America. Tucked deep within what is now Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, the story begins in the early 1900s with the discovery of copper deposits in the jagged cliffs of the Wrangell Mountains. By 1900, prospectors had identified what would become the Bonanza Mine, one of the richest copper ore bodies ever found. Soon after, the Kennecott Copper Corporation was formed, and with substantial financial backing from industrial giants like J.P. Morgan and the Guggenheim family, an extraordinary mining operation began to take shape.
Between 1911 and 1938, the Kennecott mines produced over $200 million worth of copper—a staggering sum for the time. To support this remote industrial effort, a company town, Kennecott, was constructed at the base of the mountains, complete with a hospital, general store, recreation hall, and state-of-the-art mill building. Meanwhile, the town of McCarthy, located about five miles away, grew into a bustling hub of services not provided by the mining company, including saloons, hotels, and general businesses that catered to miners and their families. Unlike the company-owned and strictly regulated Kennecott, McCarthy was known for its independence and lively spirit.
Kennecott’s operations eventually wound down in 1938 when the copper supply was depleted, and the site was abruptly abandoned—leaving behind a perfectly preserved industrial ghost town. McCarthy’s population dwindled but never disappeared entirely, as a few hardy residents remained, and the allure of the region’s solitude and natural beauty quietly drew adventurous souls. In 1980, the creation of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve—the largest national park in the United States—ushered in a new era, preserving the area’s wild character and historical significance. Today, Kennecott and McCarthy are living museums of Alaska’s frontier past. The National Park Service now manages the historic Kennecott site, where restored buildings and guided tours provide a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century mining life. McCarthy, meanwhile, has become a vibrant off-grid community and popular destination for hikers, climbers, and history buffs. Together, these towns are enduring symbols of human tenacity and the allure of Alaska’s wild frontier.
CLIMATE
McCarthy, Alaska experiences a subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Winter temperatures can drop well below zero, often accompanied by deep snow, making it a true winter wonderland. Summers, while brief, are pleasantly warm with daytime highs in the 60s and 70s°F, perfect for enjoying the stunning wilderness. The area sees relatively low humidity and abundant sunshine during summer, while fall brings crisp air and vibrant foliage.
Climate charts courtesy of https://www.city-data.com/city/McCarthy-Alaska.html
LOCATION
Fireweed Mountain Lodge is located near McCarthy, Alaska, within the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. This remote property is approximately 300 miles southeast of Anchorage and 176± miles from Valdez, accessible by vehicle along the rugged McCarthy Road. While it provides an off-the-grid experience, McCarthy remains an easy 1.5± mile journey to the town center and can be accessed year-round by small aircraft.
AIRPORT SERVICES
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport serves as a hub for various commercial airlines. Valdez Pioneer Field Airport, where Ravn Alaska operates daily flights connecting Valdez to Anchorage.
GETTING THERE
To reach Fireweed Mountain Lodge, guests have several travel options, including chartered air services and overland routes. Small aircraft operators such as Copper Valley Air (in partnership with Reeve Air) and Wrangell Mountain Air offer flights from Anchorage or Chitna to McCarthy. Copper Valley Air provides service twice weekly, while Wrangell Mountain Air operates regularly from Chitna. All flights land at McCarthy Airport, a well-maintained gravel airstrip suitable for small aircraft. For those flying in privately or on special charters, the Fireweed Airstrip—just half a mile from the lodge—offers a convenient alternative, complete with a refueling station that accepts credit card payments.
Alternatively, guests can travel by road or van shuttle. The drive takes approximately 7–8 hours from Anchorage and about 5 hours from Valdez. The final stretch, the historic 59± mile McCarthy Road built over an old railroad bed, typically takes around two hours to complete. Travelers who drive their vehicles should carry a spare tire and be prepared for a slower, scenic journey. Shuttle services from Anchorage are available through Overflow Transit and Copper Spike Transport.
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
WATER SOURCES
The property features a 75± foot well that provides an excellent year-round water supply, along with an 85± foot commercial well offering a reliable and abundant water source throughout the year.
MINERAL RIGHTS
All mineral rights, if any, appurtenant to the property and owned by the seller will be conveyed to the buyer at closing. Mineral rights are not guaranteed. It is suggested that the buyer conduct a mineral search with a title company.
CONSERVATION | STEWARDSHIP
Each of us at Fay loves the land and wants to see it remain a productive agricultural ground and a quality fish and wildlife habitat. Through promoting thoughtful land stewardship, Fay has guided owners toward a legacy of conserving wide-open spaces, enhancing and creating fisheries and wildlife habitats, and implementing sustainable agricultural operations. Fay is proud to say that since our company began in 1992, our clients’ conservation ethics and land-use practices have significantly enhanced our work landscape. 25 Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
SUMMARY
Discover a rare and extraordinary property just outside the historic town of McCarthy, Alaska, within the breathtaking Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Once a bustling copper mining town, McCarthy has become one of Alaska’s most sought-after destinations, renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and adventure potential. Located at Mile 59 of McCarthy Road, this property offers full drive-up access on the west side of the Kennecott River, providing easy entry with no need to cross the river. A mere 1.5± miles from the town of McCarthy with nearby airstrip access, it’s ideal for off-grid living and business opportunities. The property includes a 2,600± square foot modern main home, three beautifully crafted log cabins, and all necessary infrastructure for comfort. Whether you are seeking a private retreat or an entrepreneurial venture, this property offers privacy, stunning views, and unparalleled potential.
Fireweed Mountain Lodge | McCarthy, Alaska
This is an exclusive co-listing with Fay Ranches and Top Shelf Realty LLC. Please contact Troy Dana at (360) 402-5500 | tdana@fayranches.com or Yvan Corbin at (907) 301-0875 | yvan@alaskatopshelfrealty.com to schedule a showing. An agent from Fay Ranches or Top Shelf Realty LLC must be present at all showings unless otherwise noted or other arrangements are made. To view other properties we have listed, please visit our web page at www.fayranches.com.
TERMS
$1,375,000 Cash
Conventional Financing 1031 Exchange
Offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by owner. Information regarding land classification, carrying capacities, maps, etc., is intended only as a general guideline and has been provided by the owners and other sources deemed reliable, but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to research the information to their own satisfaction.
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