Located in southeastern Alaska, Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve experiences a subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Temperatures can vary significantly depending on elevation, but the monthly averages below provide a helpful overview for planning your visit.
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park Weather by Month
You can click the image below to view the full-size weather chart for Wrangell–St. Elias NP.
Note: Rainfall and snowfall figures are approximate regional averages intended for travel planning and seasonal comparison. Actual conditions can vary considerably depending on location and elevation.
January – Deep Winter Conditions
- Average high: 19°F (-7°C)
- Average low: 9°F (-13°C)
- Rainfall: 3.0 inches
- Snowfall: 12.0 inches
- Daylight: 6.5 hours
January is one of the coldest months in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park. Snow blankets the mountains, glaciers, and valleys, creating breathtaking winter scenery throughout the region.
Travel can be challenging due to icy roads and deep snow, but adventurous visitors are rewarded with pristine landscapes and exceptional solitude.
Best for:
- Winter photography
- Snowshoeing
- Backcountry exploration
- Viewing snow-covered scenery
February – More Daylight, Plenty of Snow
- Average high: 23°F (-5°C)
- Average low: 12°F (-11°C)
- Rainfall: 2.0 inches
- Snowfall: 10.0 inches
- Daylight: 9 hours
February remains firmly in winter, although daylight hours increase significantly compared to January. Snow continues to dominate the landscape, while clear days offer stunning mountain views.
Visitors should still prepare for freezing temperatures and winter travel conditions.
Best for:
- Winter recreation
- Scenic photography
- Snow adventures
- Quiet wilderness experiences
March – Late-Winter Adventure Season
- Average high: 25°F (-4°C)
- Average low: 16°F (-9°C)
- Rainfall: 1.5 inches
- Snowfall: 9.0 inches
- Daylight: 11.5 hours
March brings longer days and slightly milder temperatures while maintaining excellent snow conditions. Wildlife tracks are often visible across fresh snowfields, making it a great time for nature enthusiasts.
Best for:
- Wildlife tracking
- Snowmobiling
- Glacier viewing
- Photography
April – The First Signs of Spring
- Average high: 34°F (1°C)
- Average low: 25°F (-4°C)
- Rainfall: 1.0 inch
- Snowfall: 5.0 inches
- Daylight: 14.5 hours
April marks the transition between winter and spring. Lower elevations begin to thaw, while snow remains common in higher elevations.
Road conditions can be unpredictable as melting snow creates muddy areas.
Best for:
- Landscape photography
- Spring scenery
- Early-season exploration
May – Wildlife Activity Increases
- Average high: 45°F (7°C)
- Average low: 36°F (2°C)
- Rainfall: 1.0 inch
- Snowfall: 1.0 inch
- Daylight: 17 hours
May brings warmer temperatures and rapidly increasing daylight. Snowmelt feeds rivers and streams, while wildlife becomes more active throughout the park.
Many visitors begin arriving during this month to enjoy improving conditions.
Best for:
- Wildlife viewing
- Scenic drives
- Lower-elevation hiking
- Nature photography
June – Long Summer Days
- Average high: 55°F (13°C)
- Average low: 43°F (6°C)
- Rainfall: 1.5 inches
- Snowfall: 0 inches
- Daylight: 19 hours
June offers nearly endless daylight, making it one of the most popular times to visit Wrangell–St. Elias National Park. Temperatures are comfortable, and many trails become fully accessible.
The extended daylight allows visitors to maximize their outdoor adventures.
Best for:
- Hiking
- Camping
- Backpacking
- Flightseeing tours
July – Warmest Month of the Year
- Average high: 57°F (14°C)
- Average low: 46°F (8°C)
- Rainfall: 2.5 inches
- Snowfall: 0 inches
- Daylight: 18.5 hours
July is typically the warmest month in the park. Most lower-elevation trails are snow-free, and weather conditions are generally favorable for extended outdoor activities.
Wildlife sightings are common, and the scenery is at its summer peak.
Best for:
- Backpacking
- Glacier exploration
- Wildlife photography
- Camping
August – Peak Hiking Season
- Average high: 55°F (13°C)
- Average low: 45°F (7°C)
- Rainfall: 3.5 inches
- Snowfall: 0 inches
- Daylight: 16 hours
August continues the summer season but tends to be one of the wetter months. Rain showers become more frequent, although conditions remain excellent for hiking and sightseeing.
The landscapes are lush, green, and full of life.
Best for:
- Multi-day treks
- Scenic flights
- Nature photography
- Wilderness adventures
September – Fall Colors Arrive
- Average high: 46°F (8°C)
- Average low: 37°F (3°C)
- Rainfall: 3.0 inches
- Snowfall: 1.0 inch
- Daylight: 13 hours
September is widely considered one of the most beautiful months in the park. Tundra vegetation turns brilliant shades of red, gold, and orange.
The cooler temperatures and reduced crowds make it a favorite month for photographers.
Best for:
- Fall foliage photography
- Wildlife viewing
- Scenic drives
- Hiking
October – Winter Begins Returning
- Average high: 34°F (1°C)
- Average low: 25°F (-4°C)
- Rainfall: 2.0 inches
- Snowfall: 8.0 inches
- Daylight: 10 hours
October signals the return of winter. Snow becomes increasingly common, especially at higher elevations, and temperatures frequently fall below freezing.
Visitors should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Best for:
- Autumn landscapes
- Early winter photography
- Quiet wilderness experiences
November – Snowy and Cold
- Average high: 23°F (-5°C)
- Average low: 14°F (-10°C)
- Rainfall: 2.0 inches
- Snowfall: 12.0 inches
- Daylight: 7.5 hours
November brings consistent winter conditions across much of the park. Snow-covered mountains and frozen rivers dominate the landscape.
Outdoor recreation becomes increasingly focused on winter activities.
Best for:
- Winter scenery
- Photography
- Solitude
December – A Frozen Wilderness
- Average high: 21°F (-6°C)
- Average low: 12°F (-11°C)
- Rainfall: 2.5 inches
- Snowfall: 13.0 inches
- Daylight: 6 hours
December features some of the shortest days and coldest temperatures of the year. Thick snow cover transforms the park into a true Alaskan winter wonderland.
Visitors seeking solitude and dramatic winter scenery will find unforgettable experiences during this season.
Best for:
- Snowshoeing
- Winter photography
- Remote wilderness experiences
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park Weather by Month Table
| Month | Avg High °F (°C) | Avg Low °F (°C) | Rainfall (inches) | Sun (hrs/day) | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19°F (-7°C) | 9°F (-13°C) | 3.0 | 6.5 | 12.0 |
| February | 23°F (-5°C) | 12°F (-11°C) | 2.0 | 9.0 | 10.0 |
| March | 25°F (-4°C) | 16°F (-9°C) | 1.5 | 11.5 | 9.0 |
| April | 34°F (1°C) | 25°F (-4°C) | 1.0 | 14.5 | 5.0 |
| May | 45°F (7°C) | 36°F (2°C) | 1.0 | 17.0 | 1.0 |
| June | 55°F (13°C) | 43°F (6°C) | 1.5 | 19.0 | 0.0 |
| July | 57°F (14°C) | 46°F (8°C) | 2.5 | 18.5 | 0.0 |
| August | 55°F (13°C) | 45°F (7°C) | 3.5 | 16.0 | 0.0 |
| September | 46°F (8°C) | 37°F (3°C) | 3.0 | 13.0 | 1.0 |
| October | 34°F (1°C) | 25°F (-4°C) | 2.0 | 10.0 | 8.0 |
| November | 23°F (-5°C) | 14°F (-10°C) | 2.0 | 7.5 | 12.0 |
| December | 21°F (-6°C) | 12°F (-11°C) | 2.5 | 6.0 | 13.0 |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Wrangell–St. Elias National Park?
- Best weather: June through August
- Best hiking conditions: July and August
- Best wildlife viewing: May through September
- Best fall colors: September
- Best winter scenery: December through March
Most visitors prefer June, July, and August because of the mild temperatures, extensive daylight, and maximum access to trails, roads, and recreational opportunities throughout the park.
20 FAQs About Wrangell–St. Elias National Park Weather
1. What is the weather like in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park?
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park has a subarctic climate characterized by long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas.
2. What is the warmest month in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park?
July is typically the warmest month, with average daytime highs around 57°F (14°C) and nighttime lows near 46°F (8°C).
3. What is the coldest month in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park?
January is generally the coldest month, with average highs around 19°F (-7°C) and lows around 9°F (-13°C).
4. When is the best time to visit Wrangell–St. Elias National Park for good weather?
The best weather is usually from June through August when temperatures are mild, daylight hours are long, and most park roads and trails are accessible.
5. Does it snow in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park?
Yes. Snow is common from October through April and can occur at higher elevations during any month of the year.
6. How much daylight does the park receive in summer?
During June, the park receives approximately 19 hours of daylight per day, providing nearly endless opportunities for outdoor activities.
7. How much daylight is there in winter?
December averages about 6 hours of daylight, making it one of the darkest months of the year.
8. Is July a good time for hiking in Wrangell–St. Elias?
Yes. July offers the warmest temperatures, long daylight hours, and generally the best trail conditions for hiking and backpacking.
9. Can I visit Wrangell–St. Elias National Park in winter?
Yes, but visitors should be prepared for extreme cold, snow-covered roads, limited services, and potentially hazardous travel conditions.
10. Does the weather vary by elevation?
Absolutely. Higher elevations are significantly colder and receive more snow than lower valleys and river corridors.
11. Are summer temperatures hot in Wrangell–St. Elias?
No. Even during the warmest months, average temperatures are relatively cool compared to many U.S. national parks.
12. Is rain common during summer?
Rain is possible throughout the summer months. Visitors should always carry waterproof clothing and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
13. What should I wear when visiting the park?
Layered clothing is recommended year-round. Even summer visitors should bring warm jackets, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots.
14. When do fall colors appear in Wrangell–St. Elias?
Fall colors typically peak in September when tundra vegetation turns shades of red, gold, and orange.
15. Are mosquitoes a problem during summer?
Mosquitoes can be active from late spring through summer, particularly near wetlands and rivers. Insect repellent is highly recommended.
16. How unpredictable is the weather in the park?
Weather can change rapidly due to the park’s mountainous terrain. Sunny mornings can quickly turn into rainy, windy, or cold afternoons.
17. Is June warmer than May in Wrangell–St. Elias?
Yes. June averages highs around 55°F (13°C), compared to 45°F (7°C) in May.
18. What month has the most daylight in the park?
June has the longest days, averaging about 19 hours of daylight.
19. When does winter typically begin in Wrangell–St. Elias?
Winter conditions often begin developing in October, with significant snowfall and freezing temperatures becoming common by November.
20. What is the best month for wildlife viewing?
Many visitors consider May through September the best period for wildlife viewing because animals are more active and accessible during the warmer months.