Wrangell–St. Elias in November: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
Harsh season · VisitWhen score 44/100 · #10 of 12 months
November is a harsh-season month at Wrangell–St. Elias National Park: crowds run 0% of the July peak (60 average visits), days average 17°F with 7.3 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in November
Wrangell–St. Elias averages 60 recreation visits in November — 0% of what July, the peak month, draws — the third-quietest month of the year. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging — this is genuine quiet-season territory.
Weather & daylight
It is properly cold (highs average 17°F), and nights are frigid (lows average 2°F). It is typically dry (1.4″ of precipitation). Normal snowfall is 14″ — expect snow on the ground. Mid-month daylight runs 7.3 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station MCCARTHY 3 SW, AK US (2 mi from park coordinates, 1,250 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of November.
What to pack for Wrangell–St. Elias in November
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Insulated parka + thermal base layers — average lows of 2°F
- Traction devices (microspikes) and gaiters — 14″ normal snowfall
- Headlamp — only 7.3 hours of daylight in mid-November
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
- Bear spray — recommended by the park in grizzly country (check current park regulations before you carry)
Want quieter or kinder conditions? The computed best months for Wrangell–St. Elias are April and May.
Common questions
Is Wrangell–St. Elias crowded in November?
No — November is one of the quieter months: 0% of the July peak, averaging 60 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Wrangell–St. Elias in November?
Average highs of 17°F, lows of 2°F, 1.4″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, MCCARTHY 3 SW, AK US station).
What should I pack for Wrangell–St. Elias in November?
Insulated parka + thermal base layers; Traction devices (microspikes) and gaiters; Headlamp — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
Is everything open at Wrangell–St. Elias in November?
The McCarthy and Nabesna roads are unpaved and best attempted late May–September; most services close in winter. Always check the park's live NPS alerts for current conditions.
See also: the best national parks to visit in November · Last verified 2026-07-16