Kahiltna Glacier

Kahiltna Glacier is a large ice formation in the Alaska Range southwest of Denali, flowing for roughly 44 miles between two major mountain peaks. It descends steadily from higher elevations in the mountains down toward lower ground in the surrounding valleys.

An early explorer named J.S. Herron documented this ice formation in 1902 while surveying the mountain range. The glacier became known by its current name during this era of geographic exploration.

For indigenous Alaskan peoples, this region held deep significance in their traditional ways of life and seasonal movements. The ice formation was part of how they understood and traveled through the mountain ranges.

Climbers use the higher portions of this formation to access nearby mountain routes and peaks. Visitors should prepare for harsh weather conditions and demanding terrain if planning to venture onto the ice.

This ice formation connects elevations high in the mountains with areas much lower down, creating an exceptional vertical range. Few glaciers worldwide span such a dramatic difference in height from their highest to lowest points.