Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
Learn more
I EasyII NoviceIII IntermediateIV AdvancedV Expert/ExtremeVI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site:Put-in at this locationThis location is on the runTake-out at this location Downstream from hereUpstream from here
The McCarthy Road Bridge boat ramp provides access to the mighty Copper River near the town of Chitina, Alaska. As a major river system, the Copper River is approximately 312 miles long with an average flow of 88.72 cubic feet per second and a total elevation drop of 3,823 feet. Paddlers and boaters should be prepared for the river's size, strong currents, and potential hazards.
The boat ramp is located at the end of McCarthy Road, which follows the former Copper River and Northwestern Railway bed. The ramp provides direct access to the river, but boaters should use caution when launching and landing due to the river's swift flow. Parking is available near the ramp, but space may be limited. Hikers can also access the Liberty Falls Trail from this location, offering stunning views of the surrounding Wrangell Mountains.
For those continuing downstream, the take-out at the Copper River/Kennicott River confluence is about a mile downstream and requires hugging the right shoreline/bluff to reach the landing area. Boaters should carefully scout this take-out location before attempting the landing. Overall, the McCarthy Road Bridge boat ramp provides an important access point for exploring the Copper River, but paddlers and boaters should exercise caution and be prepared for the river's powerful character.