Mount Aniakchak

Mount Aniakchak is a volcanic peak dominated by a large crater spanning roughly 10 kilometers across. Inside the crater lie striking cinder cones, lava domes, and layered volcanic rock formations shaped by repeated eruptions.

The caldera formed during a massive eruption roughly 3600 years ago that ejected enormous amounts of volcanic material into the atmosphere. This eruption stands as one of the largest events in the region and reshaped the landscape dramatically.

The Alutiiq people lived along these shores for thousands of years, relying on the land and sea for survival. Their connection to this remote region remains part of local identity and storytelling today.

Reaching this site requires flying in or arriving by boat, as there are no roads to access it. Plan for sudden weather changes and prepare for physically demanding terrain once you arrive.

A cold, clear lake sits within the crater basin, fed by snowmelt and rain. The site receives fewer than 300 visitors yearly, making it one of Alaska's least-crowded volcanic destinations.

Location: Lake and Peninsula Borough

Elevation above the sea: 1,341 m

GPS coordinates: 56.90583,-158.20889

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:41