Located at the western fringe of the Wrangell mountains. This volcanic peak is one of the dominant peaks seen from the Glenallen area, the others being Mt. Sanford and Mt. Wrangell. First climbed in 1954 via the N. Ridge by Heinrich Harrer, Keith Hart and George Schaller. Second acsent in 1967 via SW ridge. Relatively easily approached across the tundra after a short bush flight, Drum can be climbed in a week or less with favorable conditions. It is a suprisely attractive peak, especially for a volcano. The normal route is not overly technical and runs about an Alaska grade 2.

Getting There

Most common access is from Gulkana airport via bush plane to a small divot in the tundra known as dry lake . This strip is not shown on maps and really isn't a strip at all. Its located about two miles north west of the Nadina Glacier.
Ellis Air Taxi can fly you in. Load limits are 70# per person as he is using a super cub for this flight.

Ellis Air Taxi
Mile 118 Richardson Hwy
P.O. Box 106
Glennallen, AK 99588,
907-822-3368

Red Tape

Although within the boundaries Wrangell St. Elias Park and Preserve no permits are needed.

When To Climb

April through June is the ususal season. Typically in late May and early June the approach across the Tundra can be made without snowshoes or skis. Be aware that adverse avalanche conditions can be present any time of year.

Camping

There are no federal camping facilities in the park. Several private lodges and bed and breakfast establishments are located along the McCarthy and Nabesna roads, in McCarthy and Kennicott, and in the highway communities. The Bureau of Land Management and the state of Alaska run campgrounds along the Richardson Highway, Tok Cutoff and Edgerton Highway. You may camp anywhere in the park, but be aware that there is considerable private land, particularly along the Nabesna and McCarthy road corridors

Mountain Conditions

Ellis Air Taxi may be able to help with current conditions.

webcam from Gulkana airport

Miscellaneous Info

Wrangell St. Elias Park and Preserve
Kennicott Lodge
Wrangell Mountain Air
Ultima Thule

Images