Denali Base Camp

The SE fork of the Kahiltna Glacier is primarily known as the launching point for a climb of Denali.  In addition Base Camp is closely positioned to a handful of wonderful alpine routes within striking distance of your tent.  

The Alaska Range mega classic Moonflower Buttress towers above.  This climb is highly sought after but seldom fully repeated. For the more modest alpine climber there are several other routes worth considering. Two long ice routes deeper in the SE fork gain the summits of satellite buttresses of the moonflower. One is the North Couloir on the Mini Moonflower and the other is Bacon and Eggs on the Micro Moonflower. 

Mount Frances sits directly above base camp and provides opportunity for accessible steep skiing on its eastern couloirs and holds a long classic mixed route on its SW Ridge.  This route is a carry over with a descent of the East Ridge back to camp. 

Kahiltna Queen sits at the head of the SE fork.  At only 12,380 this beautiful mountain is the triple divide peak of the three greatest glaciers in the range: The Kahiltna, The Ruth, and The Tokositna. It is only this summit that all three of these glaciers meet simultaneously. The long West Face Couloir offers passage through Kahiltna Queen's steep and rocky upper slopes.   

For the ski or snowboard inclined bringing touring equipment is a great idea to provide options if the routes hold too much snow for climbing. Regardless, a ski and/or climbing trip to Base Camp is a full Alaskan adventure.

Please contact us at 970-925-7625 or email/form to learn more about this custom AK trip, including rates, dates, and availability.