Bonanza Mine Trail
A climb of about 1,100 m from Kennecott to the old mine on the ridge; the miners' quarters and cable-tower remains overlooking the glacier make it one of the park's classic demanding trails.
The Bonanza Mine was Kennecott's first and richest copper mine, located on Bonanza Ridge about 1,800 m high, northeast of the mill town. The trail starts from the mill town and climbs steeply along the old mine road, about 7 km one way with roughly 1,100 m of elevation gain, so a round trip takes 6–8 hours. From the top you can see the surviving miners' bunkhouses, mine tunnel entrances and aerial tramway towers, with the Kennecott and Root glaciers meeting in a spectacular panorama below. The hillsides are covered with wildflowers in July. The upper section is loose gravel, and weather can change quickly, so bring plenty of water and warm clothing, and be alert for bears.
Opening hours
Summer (June–August, less snow)
Nearby sights
- Kennecott Mill Town
- Root Glacier
- Stairway Icefall
- McCarthy
- Kennicott Glacier
- Kennicott River Footbridge
- McCarthy Road
- Gilahina Trestle