Castle Peak Traverse

A short flight over Kennicott Glacier takes you to a small airstrip in Hidden Lake Valley. Guarded at its end by an ice-damned lake which drains annually, this canyon offers amazing scenery. Steep limestone cliffs, cut by waterfalls, offer bands of Dall sheep and mountain goats safety from the canyon's predators - wolves, wolverine, foxes, grizzlies and black bears. The route ascends this narrow canyon to a 5400' pass and descends into the Lakina River. While in the pass, visit one of several blue-green alpine lakes and enjoy the view of steep, southeast facing Castle Peak (10,190'). From here, the route takes you down steep, rocky, scree covered slopes to the landing strip on a gravel bar of the Lakina River.

From the Lakina River, the route crosses the valley by way of the toe of the Lakina Glacier, and continues up Mill Creek along the base of Castle Peak. A steep climb takes you to a high pass at 6000', about 1000' above the valley floor. On a very clear day, view Mt. St. Elias (18,008'), Mt. Logan (19,850') and the countless unnamed peaks standing before them. A traverse following the tracks of Dall sheep along the high ridges leads to the final destination at Kuskalana Pass. From the open alpine country of this pass, enjoy excellent day hiking in several directions and opportunities for viewing black and grizzly bears, Dall sheep, wolves, foxes and both Bald and Golden Eagles

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Glaciers: There are 2-3 glacier crossings on this trip depending on your route taken. Some experience with glacier travel and crampons is advised.

Streams: Be prepared and knowledgable about safe stream crossing techniques.

Terrain: This continuation of the Castle Peak Route is recommend for experienced and/or guided backpackers seeking additional adventure and views of the region's highest Mountains.

Here are some other trips of similar difficulty.

• Skolia Pass to Chimney Mt.
• Iceberg Lake to Ross Green Lake
• Seven Pass Route
• Pyramid Peak Traverse
• The Tana Notch
• Hanagita Traverse
• Bremner Mines to Tebay Lake