The first two things visitors notice about Kennecott are the spectacular views and the town itself…in that order. The combination of dramatic scenery and strange mining town makes for a unique experience. Give yourself a couple hours to explore and take it in. You can get information and a local map from the National Park Service visitor center. Then walk up Silk Stocking Row, which begins with a steep ascent across the street from the visitor center and winds past private residences in renovated cottages, where managers of the mining company once lived (people who could afford silk stocking). The road eventually turns into a trail and crosses a dramatic little foot bridge that spans across National Creek, crashing down the mountain some 80 feet below. There are a few options for food in Kennicott, as well as a gift shop and a lodge where you can get a cup of coffee and look at that amazing view.
You may see NPS workers in orange vests. This crew has been working since 1999 to stabilize and renovate many of the historic buildings in Kennicott.
Remains of Flood-Damaged Buildings: A 2006 flood wreaked havoc on parts of Kennecott, such as the buiding that used to reside at this location. It was plowed into by the swollen river, and the nearby bridge lost most of its understructure.
Jumbo Mine Angle Station: This century-old building, located up on the hillside, is probably about to give up the ghost, but you can hike up the mountain to get glimpses of Bonanza, Jumbo, Mother Lodge, or Erie Mines. You might catch sight of old buckets, control levers, tools, and other memorabilia left lying around.
McCarthy Relics: You can't walk more than a few yards in McCarthy without running into evidence of a bygone era, like a broken-down wagon.
