MCCARTHY HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Tundra High: A 7-Day Sanford Plateau Mini-Backpacking in McCarthy
A private, 7-day advanced backpacking journey across tundra plateaus with St. Elias Alpine Guides — this guide lays out what to expect, who it suits, and how to prepare.
Tundra High: A 7-Day Sanford Plateau Mini-Backpacking in McCarthy.
Embark on a thrilling, private 7‑day adventure across a high tundra wonderland. Tailor your dates, travel with your chosen group, and lean into a sustained stretch of remote alpine terrain that promises unforgettable memories and singular landscapes.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A tundra wonderland on Sanford Plateau
Catch broad, open tundra, plateaus and alpine vistas that define the Sanford Plateau — the visual and emotional center of this mini‑backpacking route.
Private, customizable 7‑day program
This itinerary is offered only as a private trip: pick dates that work for your group and shape the experience to fit your party size and pace.
Advanced backpacking, sustained days
Expect a concentrated, multi‑day backpacking experience over varied tundra terrain — the trip is billed as an advanced backpacking outing and built for committed participants.
What the day feels like
What the seven days feel like
Across seven days you move deliberately through remote tundra, carrying camp and essentials with your group. The private format lets you set dates and travel with friends or family while relying on an experienced guide structure to manage logistics and route decisions.
THE LANDSCAPE
A tundra wonderland on Sanford Plateau
Catch broad, open tundra, plateaus and alpine vistas that define the Sanford Plateau — the visual and emotional center of this mini‑backpacking route.
THE FORMAT
Private, customizable 7‑day program
This itinerary is offered only as a private trip: pick dates that work for your group and shape the experience to fit your party size and pace.
THE LEVEL
Advanced backpacking, sustained days
Expect a concentrated, multi‑day backpacking experience over varied tundra terrain — the trip is billed as an advanced backpacking outing and built for committed participants.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip works for — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Consult the operator’s detailed equipment list on the trip page; it is the definitive checklist for clothing, shelter and personal gear required for a multi‑day tundra backpacking trip.
The trip references a comprehensive packing list — use the operator’s equipment guidance to plan shared group gear and food logistics.
Follow the operator’s equipment list for recommended shelter, insulating layers and wet‑weather clothing appropriate for tundra conditions.
Review the public equipment list and the trip page before departure to confirm you meet the gear and fitness expectations for a seven‑day advanced backpacking outing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is this trip offered as a scheduled group or private only?
This trip is offered only on a private trip basis; you choose dates and travel with your selected party.
How long is the Sanford Plateau mini‑Backpacking trip?
The trip runs seven days.
What does it cost to book this trip?
2024 private rates vary by party size: from $6,060 for one participant down to $2,700 per person for parties of seven to eight; intermediate tiers apply for two through six participants.
How do I book or start planning a private trip?
Book the dates that work for your group or sign up for a planning call with the Expedition Coordinator via the provided Calendly link to begin arrangements.
Where can I find more detailed trip and equipment information?
Visit the trip page to view more photos and the equipment list, and consult the operator's FAQ page for additional details.