Bold Peak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bold Peak |
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![]() Bold Peak, as viewed from near the top of the Bold Ridge Trail
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 7,522 ft (2,293 m) |
Geography | |
Parent range | Chugach Mountains |
Climbing | |
Easiest route | The deep gully on the Southern face, known as Stiver's Gully |
Bold Peak is a tall mountain in Alaska, a state in the United States. It stands about 7,522 feet (2,293 meters) high. You can find this impressive peak in Chugach State Park, which is near the city of Anchorage.
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Where is Bold Peak Located?
Bold Peak is found on the eastern side of Eklutna Lake. It's about two and a half miles northwest of another mountain called Bashful Peak. Bashful Peak is the highest point in the western part of the Chugach Mountains.
Exploring Bold Peak: Hiking and Climbing
Bold Peak is a popular spot for experienced hikers and climbers. The conditions on the mountain can be quite tough. You might face strong winds, very cold temperatures, and snow all year round.
The Stiver's Gully Route
One common way to climb Bold Peak is through a path called Stiver's Gully. This adventure starts with a 10.5-mile bike ride. You ride along a dirt road that leads to the end of Eklutna Lake.
After the bike ride, the real climb begins! You'll go up about 6,500 feet (1,981 meters) of loose rock. This part involves scrambling, climbing, and hiking. There isn't a clear path or trail to the very top of the peak.
The Bold Ridge Trail
Another way to experience the area is the Bold Ridge Trail. This trail starts from the road next to Eklutna Lake. It climbs 3.5 miles up an old road. This leads you to a wide, open valley below the western side of Bold Peak.
The Bold Ridge Trail offers amazing views of Eklutna Lake. It also lets you explore the open, grassy areas of the smaller mountains and valleys near Bold Peak.
Winter Challenges: Avalanches
During winter and spring, Bold Peak gets a lot of snow. Its long, steep slopes can have huge snow slides called avalanches. These avalanches are very powerful. They can even cross and bury the dirt road that runs along the side of Eklutna Lake.
For example, in February 2000, a massive avalanche happened on Bold Peak. It was so strong that it broke thousands of trees. It created a huge field of broken trees and snow that was a mile long. The force of the avalanche was incredible, tearing through forests and reaching far into the valley below.