Everyone loves a bit of hiking, but adventure seekers look for the challenge of conquering a 14er! The rugged state of Alaska is the perfect place to do so, with stunning views and grand mountains to impress even the most seasoned hikers.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive list of all major 14ers in Alaska, look no further! In this blog post, we’ll provide a list of prominent Alaskan peaks, as well as a description of each hike. So whether you are simply curious, fantasizing about a trip, or planning one out, you can see all Alaska has to offer.
Whether you’re a backpacker planning your next trip to Alaska or an aspiring mountaineer looking to add one more peak to your list, this blog post has everything you need to know. So read on and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful mountains in the world!
What is a 14er?
A 14er is a mountain or hill that has been measured in three principal ways: topographic elevation, topographic prominence, and topographic isolation. Not all summits over 14,000 feet qualify as fourteeners, however. To be considered a fourteener, the summit must meet all of these criteria.
The first is pretty simple, topographic elevation. This is simply the height of the summit above sea level. This is how all mountains are initially measured, and usually, the height hikers brag about it when they summit a large mountain. It is the most common measurement to come across because it is pretty simple!
Then there is topographical prominence. This measurement states how high the summit rises above its surroundings. This value depends on several factors including the location and shape of the peak. For example, Mount Whitney dominates everything around it due to its sheer size and prominent form compared to other mountains in California’s Sierra Nevada range.
Finally, there is topography isolation. Which is how far the summit lies from its nearest point of equal elevation. This value also takes into account the location and shape of the peak but focuses more on distance than relative heights between peaks. In the continental United States, a 14er must be at least 300 feet higher than surrounding peaks. However, in Alaska, this measure is 500 feet. Making the list of official 14er varies depending on who you ask.
Are There 14ers in Alaska?
Yes, there are! Alaska has 29 14ers, meaning 29 peaks above 14,000 feet (4,500 meters) if you use the 300-foot limit for topography isolation standard. Many of these peaks are also popular mountaineering destinations.
Many adventure hikers make it a goal to hike all of the 14ers in the United States. But Alaska offers some of the most challenging mountains due to the climate. Since some of Alaska’s 14ers are on the same mountain or contested for their prominence, we will take a look at the main peaks.
Here is a list of these 14ers in Alaska, from tallest to shortest, with information for each.
1. Denali – 20,310 ft
Denali (also known as Mount McKinley) is the highest point in North America and the most prominent peak in Alaska. At 20,310 ft/ 6190.5 m, it’s also one of the tallest mountains on Earth. It’s famously known for its extremely dangerous conditions – climbers must be prepared for severe weather conditions that can range from powerful blizzards to high winds and temperatures below 0 degrees F.
Despite these dangers, Mount Denali has been climbed by many brave souls over the years. The best time to visit is during summer when there are fewer climbers and the skies are clear enough to see all of Alaska’s magnificent landscape.
2. Denali North Peak – 19,470 ft
Denali North Peak is the second-highest summit in North America, and it’s also one of the most challenging climbs in the world at 19,470 ft/5934 m above sea level. It is still a part of Denali mountain, but its wild topography makes it a technically different summit. It is also known as Sourdough Peak!
There are a few reasons why Denali remains such an elusive target for mountain climbers. First and foremost, it’s simply difficult – even for those with extensive mountaineering experience. Second, there are no fixed paths or trails up to the summit; hikers must follow a route that varies depending on weather conditions and terrain features. And finally, completing Denali requires incredibly grueling physical preparation – you’re not just hiking up a hill; you’re training your body to endure extreme altitude exposure
3. Mount Saint Elias – 18,009 ft
Mount Saint Elias is an incredibly tall mountain peak in North America. At 18,009 ft/5489 m, it’s one of the highest mountain peaks in both Canada and the United States. It also ranks as one of the world’s 8 tallest mountains outside of Asia.
For starters, it’s a great place to climb if you’re interested in adventure sports or outdoor activity. And because Mount Saint Elias is located on the U.S.-Canada border (in British Columbia), climbers can enjoy some amazing hiking opportunities – whether they’re looking for a challenging hike up to the summit or an easier trek that takes them along its slopes.
4. Mount Foraker – 17,400 ft
Mount Foraker is one of the highest peaks in North America and also one of the most challenging. Rising 17,400 feet (5,304 m) above the sea. This mountain range is located in Interior Alaska and offers some truly awe-inspiring views.
To reach the summit of Mount Foraker requires a lengthy hike that starts at an elevation of 4,200 feet before gradually rising to 6,000 feet within the first few miles. From there, hikers must endure a grueling 8-mile climb to reach the top! The final stretch leads up steep slopes covered with scree and snow drifts.
Even experienced mountaineers often struggle with conditions such as extreme cold (subzero temperatures on average), heavy rainfall, and windblown snow severity which can make hiking treacherous indeed.
5. Mount Bona – 16,550 ft
Mount Bona is a 16,550-foot (5044m) peak in eastern Alaska that is part of the Saint Elias Mountains. It’s also one of the major mountains of the region, and is right next to Mount Churchill.
If you’re looking for a challenging hike with plenty of scenery and breathtaking views, Mount Bona is definitely worth a visit. The mountain can be accessed by hiking up from either McCarthy or Saint Marys Glacier valleys via trails that are well marked and easy to follow. You’ll need to be prepared for inclement weather – winter hikes on Mount Bona can get very cold and snowy!
6. Mount Blackburn – 16,390 ft
Mount Blackburn is a 16,390 ft/4996m peak located in the Wrangell Mountains of Alaska. The mountain is a very old and eroded shield volcano, and the second-highest volcano in the U.S.! It’s also one of the most popular destinations for climbers in North America.
Not only does Mount Blackburn provide great hiking opportunities for visitors looking for some physical activity; it also offers plenty of scenic vistas and peaceful solitude. No matter what your interests are – nature lovers or thrill seekers alike will find something special at Mount Blackburn!
7. Mount Sanford – 16,237 ft
Mount Sanford is one of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring peaks in Alaska, and it’s well worth a visit. The 16,237 ft (4949 m) peak is located in the Wrangell Volcanic Field and rises 8,000 feet over just 1 mile.
This steep gradient makes Mount Sanford one of the toughest mountains to climb in North America – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! The south face of the volcano is especially impressive. It features colossal columns of ice towering up to 10,000 feet above the surrounding landscape.
If you’re lucky enough to be there during summertime, don’t miss out on hiking into these glaciers – they’re definitely an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, take a hike along either of Mount Sanford’s two trails for stunning views all around.
8. South Buttress – 15,885 ft
The South Buttress is a climbing route in the Alaska Range that rises to 15,885 feet (4842 m). The climb takes about 14 to 16 hours and requires a lot of preparation, including long-term planning and proper equipment. It’s also important to be aware of weather conditions because poor weather can lead to dangerous situations on the mountain.
There are several ways to approach South Buttress: you can hike up the mountain trail or take advantage of some of the easier climbing options available on nearby peaks such as Mount Blackburn and Redoubt Peak. Whichever route you choose, make sure to bring plenty of water, food, and equipment for contingencies – this is no easy summit!
9. Good Neighbor Peak – 15,715 ft
There are several high mountain peaks in Alaska that offer breathtaking views. However, none of them come close to the sheer magnitude and beauty of Good Neighbor Peak. At 15,715 ft (4790 m), it is located on Mount Vancouver as its southern summit.
The slopes on either side of Good Neighbor Peak are incredibly steep and rugged, making it difficult to access. But once you get there, you’ll be blown away by its incredible scenery. The summit boasts a 360-degree view that includes Mount McKinley (Denali), Mount Yukon, Eagle Mountain, and many more mountains! This towering peak is definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in Alaska!
10. Mount Churchill – 15,683 ft
Mount Churchill, located in the Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska, is one of the highest mountains in North America. At 15,683 ft (4,766 m), it’s also one of the tallest peaks east of the Rocky Mountains.
Due to its height and ruggedness, Mount Churchill has been an important destination for climbers and adventurers for many years. The mountain is home to some of the most difficult climbing routes on earth – including Alaska’s first 5A route! And even if you’re not interested in climbing Mount Churchill yourself, be sure to check out all of its incredible attractions while you’re there
11. Mount Fairweather – 15,325 ft
Located by Glaceir Bay, this snow capped mountain is striking even to seasoned hikers. At 15,325 ft (4671 m), it reaches much higher than the average 14er. And it is one of the most popular climbing destinations in Alaska.
The route up Mount Fairweather is long and arduous – requiring climbers to pass through some of the most dangerous terrain on Alaska’s North Slope. The climb can take anywhere from 12-18 hours roundtrip, and even experienced hikers may find themselves struggling at times.
But that doesn’t mean that Mount Fairweather isn’t worth climbing! The views alone are incredible – both on and around the mountain. And if weather conditions aren’t ideal, there are always campsites available along the way should you need them.
12. Mount Hubbard – 14,951 ft
Mount Hubbard is one of the major mountains of the Saint Elias Range, located on the Alaska/Yukon border. At 14,951 ft (4,421 m), it is one of the highest peaks in North America and part of a large mountain range that stretches from west to east across Alaska.
The striking feature of Mount Hubbard is its sharply dissected summit plateau, which rises abruptly above tree line and contains several impressive glaciers – including Muldrow Glacier (~12 km long) and Mt. Foraker (~10 km long). With a little luck (and good weather conditions), you might be able to see some mountaineering feats being accomplished on this beautiful peak!
13. Mount Bear – 14,831 ft
Mt. Bear is a 14,831-foot (4520 m) peak in the Saint Elias Mountains of Alaska. Despite its height, it’s a little-visited peak, being surrounded by higher and better-known peaks such as Mount Bona (16,502 feet). It’s not surprising that this relatively unknown mountain doesn’t receive as much attention as some of its more well-known counterparts.
If you’re looking for an impressive mountaineering challenge without having to spend hours on the trail climbing up high mountainsides, then Mt. Bear might be just the mountain for you! The climb takes approximately seven hours round trip from either Silver Gate or McCarthy Pass Campgrounds via trails that are accessible year-round – perfect weather conditions permitting.
14. East Buttress – 14,730 ft
The East Buttress of Denali is a treacherous and frequently-climbed subpeak that offers climbers an impressive 14,730 ft (4490 m) summit attainment. This mountain was first summited by a team of six brave souls in 1963. Since then, it has seen many more ascents thanks to its extremely challenging climbing terrain and breathtaking views.
So if you’re planning on tackling this peak sometime soon, be prepared for some tough challenges! But don’t worry – with the right gear and preparation, anyone can make the ascent.
15. Mount Hunter – 14,573 ft
Mount Hunter is a 14,573 ft (4442 m) peak in Alaska that has a complex structure: it is topped by a large, low-angled glacier plateau, connecting the North (Main) Summit and the South Summit. The long, corniced ridges are very long and extend in every direction; with steep slopes are between the ridges.
This magnificent mountain offers climbers an immense range of possibilities for ascending and descending. The Main Summit can be reached via standard class 2 climbing on moderate overhangs and snow slopes. The West Ridge Route followed by descent from the saddle to Lower Castle Creek provides excellent exposure with very little risk of injury despite its height gain (+4659′).
16. Mount Alverstone – 14,500 ft
Mount Alverstone is a 14,500 ft (4420 m) peak in the Saint Elias Mountains. It is one of the most popular peaks for climbers in North America, and it frequently ranks as one of the most difficult fourteeners to climb.
The mountain is located just outside Kluane National Park, Alaska, and it can be reached by car or trailhead from various points surrounding the area. The hike to Mount Alverstone takes approximately six hours round trip with around 2200 feet of climbing overall.
17. University Peak – 14,470 ft
University Peak is a 14,470 ft (4410 m) peak located in the Alaska Range, just north of Denali National Park. From a geographical standpoint, the mountain can be considered to be an outlier of the larger massif of Mount Bona. Although University peak is a smaller peak than Mount Bona, it is much more steep than Bona.
This mountain offers excellent climbing opportunities for experienced climbers. The route up University Peak requires an exposure rating of at least 5 on steep terrain (50 degrees or more from horizontal). This makes it well-suited for mountaineers who are looking for some serious adventure!
18. Aello Peak – 14,445 ft
Aello Peak is a 14,445 ft (4403 m) peak in the Saint Elias Mountains of Alaska. It is one of the most popular peaks in this area, and it offers great views of Mount Bona to the southwest and The Twaharpies mountain range to the northeast. The route to Aello Peak starts from an elevation of 10,040 ft on Fryingpan Road just outside town at milepost 259.
From there, you will hike up gradual switchbacks until you reach 12,000 ft where you’ll start your steepest climb towards the summit. Once at 13,200 ft or so (the halfway point), enjoy some beautiful scenery before reaching 14,445 feet high atop Aello Peak!
19. Mount Wrangell – 14,163 ft
Mount Wrangell is one of the highest mountains in North America and a world-renowned hiking destination. It rises 14,163 feet (4317 m) above the surrounding terrain and is located in southeastern Alaska. The mountain offers excellent views of glaciers, valleys, peaks, and ridges. As such, it is an ideal place to hike for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.
There are several different trails that hikers can take to explore Mount Wrangell’s many features and opportunities for adventure. Some popular trails include the Mt Wrangell Trail (6 miles round trip), East Ridge Route (10 miles round trip), Crystal River Walkway (4 mile loop) and Gray Wolf Lake Loop Trail (5 mile loop).
Each trail has its own unique features and scenery that will fascinate most visitors. If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding hike that will leave you feeling thrilled with your achievement, then Mount Wrangell is definitely worth considering!
20. Mount Augusta – 14,070 ft
Mt. Augusta is an impressive 14,070 ft (4,289 m) mountain located in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve in southeastern Alaska. Though not a particularly tall peak by Alaskan standards, it is notable for its dramatic summit crater and extensive glacier coverage.
The volcano has been the site of several noteworthy eruptions over the years – most notably during 1783-84 when it produced a series of explosive events which destroyed villages to the south and north of Mount Augusta’s summit. If you’re planning a trip to this stunning area soon, be sure to add Mt. Augusta to your list!
21. Mount Wrangell West Peak – 14,013 ft
Finally, the last 14er of Alaska! Mount Wrangles west peak reaches 14,013 ft (4271 m) heights, just above the 14er mark. The journey to get there is definitely one for the books – steep and rugged terrain mixed with endless stretches of alpine meadows will have your heart racing all the way up.
But when you reach the summit, well…words cannot describe how amazing it feels to finally be standing on top of this legendary mountain. Whether you’re tackling this hike as a beginner or an experienced explorer, make sure to bring everything you need and enjoy every minute of it!
How Many 14ers Are There in the US?
There are 96 14ers in the US – that’s more than any other country! The US has a higher number of 14ers because it is home to mountains with high elevations, such as the Rockies, Sierra Nevada, and the Andes. This makes for some tough hiking and climbing conditions, which encourages people to explore these peaks from a mountaineering perspective.
In addition to being challenging to climb, many of these peaks have beautiful scenery that can be seen from afar. So whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to see some impressive natural scenery, exploring all 96 of America’s 14ers is definitely worth doing!
Check out our other lists of 14ers in different states:
- How Many 14ers Are There in California? (Full List)
- How Many 14ers Are There in Washington? (Full List)
- How Many 14ers Are There in Montana? (Are There Any?)
Final Thoughts
There are 29 14ers in Alaska, making it one of the most mountainous states in the United States. Alaskan mountains are not just for climbers, though – they’re also great for hiking and sightseeing. With so many incredible peaks to explore, it’s no wonder Alaska is known as the “Land of the Midnight Sun.” Hopefully, this blog was to help you explore and appreciate the beauty of Alaska’s mountains in a new way!
Jamie is the founder of Action Sporter. He is the chief zipline writer and the lead editor. He has 5 years of zipline experience being a tour guide in Newfoundland. Most of the time you can find Jamie adventure traveling, hiking, skiing, skateboarding, or anything action related!