Mount Saint Elias
Mount Saint Elias is a beautiful peak located on the border of Alaska and Canada. With a height of 18,008 feet, it is the second-highest mountain in both the United States and Canada. It is named after Saint Elias, the patron saint of sailors, and is located in the heart of the Saint Elias Mountains. This mountain is a popular destination for mountaineers and adventure enthusiasts due to its challenging terrain, extreme weather conditions, and breathtaking views.
Mount Saint Elias is a part of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, which is the largest national park in the United States. The park is home to an array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and Dall sheep. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. The park also offers guided tours and educational programs, allowing visitors to learn about the rich history and culture of the area.
The climb to the summit of Mount Saint Elias Alaska is a challenging and technical endeavor, requiring a high level of skill and experience. The climb typically takes several days and involves navigating through glaciers, crevasses, and steep ice and snow slopes. Despite the challenges, climbers are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering one of North America’s highest peaks.
Fast Facts
Country: United States
State/Province: Alaska
Mountain Range: Saint Elias Mountains
Parents: Mount Logan
Elevation: 18,009 feet / 5,489 meters
Prominence: 11,184 feet / 3,409 meters
Isolation: 25.36 miles / 40.81 kilometers
Nearest Higher Neighbor (NHN): Mount Logan
First Ascent: 1897 by Prince Luigi Amedeo, Duke of the Abruzzi
Fun Fact: Mount Saint Elias is the second-highest mountain standing in both Canada and the United States, located on the border of Yukon and Alaska.
Flora and Fauna
Located on the border between Alaska and Canada at a height of 18,008 feet, Mount Saint Elias is the second-highest peak in both countries and is surrounded by some of the most diverse flora and fauna in Alaska. The mountain is situated in the Saint Elias Mountains, which range from Alaska to Canada’s Yukon Territory. The area is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
The flora of Mount Saint Elias is diverse and unique. The mountain is surrounded by lush forests that are home to a variety of coniferous trees such as Sitka spruce, Western hemlock, and Alaska cedar. The lower slopes of the mountain are covered with a variety of flowering plants, including lupines, fireweed, and Alaska columbine. The alpine tundra that surrounds the peak is home to a variety of grasses, shrubs, and wildflowers that bloom in the short summer months.
The fauna of Mount Saint Elias is equally diverse. The mountain is home to a variety of mammal species, including grizzly bears, black bears, moose, caribou, and wolves. The area is also home to a variety of bird species, including bald eagles, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons. The streams and rivers that flow through the area are home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, trout, and Arctic grayling.
Trails
Mount Saint Elias, situated in the vast wilderness of Alaska, is well-renowned for its scenic beauty and towering height that commands respect amongst mountain enthusiasts from around the globe. This majestic peak, the second highest in both the United States and Canada, offers an array of trails that cater to various levels of hiking expertise, from the novice hiker to the experienced mountaineer.
One of the most popular trails near Mount Saint Elias is the Copper River Trail. This trail offers an extraordinary view of the mountain and its surrounding landscapes. It is a moderately difficult trail but rewards those who traverse it with breathtaking views of glaciers, rivers, and wildlife that inhabit this region of Alaska.
Another trail that deserves mention is the Icy Bay Trail. This trail affords hikers with an unparalleled view of Mount Saint Elias and its neighboring peaks, while also providing a clear view of the expansive Icy Bay. The trail is quite challenging due to its steep gradients and rocky terrain but is worth every step for the astounding vistas it presents.
The Root Glacier Trail is also a must-visit for anyone exploring trails near Mount Saint Elias. It provides a unique opportunity to walk on a glacier while enjoying panoramic views of the mountain. It is considered a moderate trail and is well-loved by those who have a keen interest in geology and glaciology.
There are numerous trails near Mount Saint Elias that offer diverse experiences for visitors. These trails not only provide an opportunity to appreciate the rugged beauty of Alaska’s landscape but also challenge and reward hikers with their varying degrees of difficulty and unique features. Whether you are drawn to the serene beauty of the Copper River, the icy majesty of Icy Bay, or the geological wonders on the Root Glacier Trail, Mount Saint Elias has something to offer every adventurer.
