The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter is about 11 miles from the start of the Wickersham Creek trail and offers shelter to visitors. The Bureau of Land Management protects this site and many others so that future generations can enjoy the land and wildlife. Alaska has 70 million acres of mountains, wetlands, and tundra that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter is only meant for emergency use, but there are many other public-use cabins in the area. You can also camp along the Wickersham Creek Trail or Moose Creek Trail. The Wickersham Creek Trail is well-marked and often used for mountain biking and trail running.
Plan a visit to the Denali National Park, which is about 162 miles south. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is about 415 miles to the east. Don't forget to stop by the nearby cities of Fairbanks, Nenana, or Fox before starting your journey through the area.
This trail begins just off the Elliott Highway near the Wickersham Dome. Walk along a ridge for several miles while enjoying the natural landscape and views of the nearby rocky peaks. You'll pass several cabins along the trail as well as meadows and spruce trees. As you continue, you'll have to climb up steep rocks. Watch out for overflowing ice formations that can cover the trail.
Length: 19 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail begins near the Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter. Your hike starts in a forested area before winding through meadows and over ridges. You'll cross several tributaries and have to climb a hill before coming to the Trail Creek Trail. Visitors enjoy hiking, trail running, and mountain biking on this trail.
Length: 8.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
Beaver Creek is a 180-mile tributary of the Yukon River. You can take canoes and boats out on Beaver Creek as long as the water is deep enough. Visitors can also fish from these chilly waters and find an abundance of Arctic graylings and northern pike. The easiest way to access the lower parts of the creek is to float downstream. You'll likely spot a lot of waterfowl when visiting the area.
The White Mountains National Recreational Area is home to outstanding scenery and ample climbing opportunities. This 71-mile mountain range has amazing peaks and beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and forests. Visitors can stay at the local campground in one of the 12 available cabins.
Alaska is home to various bears including brown bears, black bears and grizzlies. You're more likely to run into bears in Alaska than anywhere else on the continent. This state is also home to caribou, moose, wolves, and Dall sheep. You may even see a wild lynx or bald eagle. Alaska's diverse landscape allows many fish, mammals, and reptiles to flourish and thrive.
Plan to rest at one of the Bureau of Land Management free camping spots or set up your picnic along the trail. You likely won't find many tables or formal picnic spots unless you're near a free-use cabin. Always boil or treat any water you collect from the streams and rivers. Help preserve the trail and area by leaving no trace of your visit behind.
You can also hunt on BLM-managed lands as long as you have the appropriate hunting license. Hunt large game like moose or bear or try your hand at bird hunting. Depending on how high into the mountains you go, you can also find herds of mountain goats. BLM areas are usually open for hunting unless otherwise indicated.
The most common camping option near Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter is either tent camping or free-use cabins. One of the best local Bureau of Land Management campgrounds is BLM Cripple Creek. This RV camping site charges a minimal fee and has 12 RV spots available. BLM sites often have vault toilets, trash barrels, and picnic tables. You should also check out the campgrounds closer to Fairbanks, including River's Edge RV Park and Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park. These campgrounds will cost more than BLM sites, but they often have more amenities.
Dispersed camping is also allowed and encouraged near the Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter. You may find RV parking spots along the nearby Elliott Highway. You'll have more luck finding a spot if you choose to camp in a tent. Choose a clear area in the woods or find flat ground near Beaver Creek. Be courteous to fellow visitors and leave ample space between camping sites.
If you plan to explore the area in an RV, consider parking your rig in an urban campground near Fairbanks. Parking can be difficult to find the further you go from the city. Bring sturdy shoes, hiking gear, and enough water and food. The weather can change quickly up in the mountains, so be prepared with sunscreen and insect repellant. Check the weather the morning before you leave for your hike to avoid being rained out.
The best way to experience the beautiful natural landscape and wildlife of Alaska is at a BLM campground. Search for "BLM camping near me" for more inexpensive and exciting options in the area. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The best way to preserve the Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter and surrounding areas is by leaving no trace behind. If you're near water, put your camp up on gravel bars. Keep all garbage contained, and take it with you when you leave. Bury human waste at least 200 feet away from any water source. By thoroughly cleaning up after your stay, you help to preserve Alaskan wildlife for many generations to come.
Follow the Elliott Highway until you get to milepost 28. Turn off toward the Wickersham Dome Trailhead. Follow the Wickersham Creek Trail for 11 miles until you reach the Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter.
Address: 222 University Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99709
Ready to visit Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night, where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
