Mount Blachnitzky facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Mount Blachnitzky
Mt. Blachnitzky from the northeast
Highest point
Elevation	6,552 ft (1,997 m)
Prominence	602 ft (183 m)
Isolation	3.7 mi (6.0 km)
Geography
Mount Blachnitzky Location in Alaska
Location	Tongass National Forest Juneau Borough Alaska, United States
Parent range	Boundary Ranges
Topo map	USGS Juneau D-2
Climbing
First ascent	2004, Keith Daellenbach and party
Easiest route	class 3 south ridge

Mount Blachnitzky is a mountain in Alaska, United States. It stands about 6,552 feet (1,997 meters) tall. This impressive peak is part of the Boundary Ranges, which are a section of the Coast Mountains in North America.

You can find Mount Blachnitzky between the Gilkey Glacier and Avalanche Canyon. It was named after a special person, Klaus Blachnitzky (1921-1988). He was a surveyor, which means he measured land, and an explorer of the Juneau Icefield.

Mr. Blachnitzky was the main surveyor for the Juneau Icefield Research Program. He did a lot of his important work near this mountain. Sadly, in August 1988, he passed away while working near the Vaughan Lewis Glacier. This spot is about four miles from the mountain that now carries his name.

First Climb: A Special Tribute

In 2004, a group of four climbers decided to honor Mr. Blachnitzky. They made the very first climb to the top of Mount Blachnitzky. Before this, no one had ever reached its summit.

Who Made the First Ascent?

The climbers were Scott McGee, Keith Daellenbach, Charles Daellenbach, and Fred Skemp III. They reached the top on June 30, 2004. They used a path called the southwest cirque/south ridge.

What Did They Leave at the Top?

To remember Mr. Blachnitzky, the climbers left some special items at the peak. These were surveying tools and mementos that reminded everyone of his life and work.

When Was the Name Made Official?

The mountain's name, Mount Blachnitzky, was officially recognized in 2007. This was done by the United States Board on Geographic Names.

Understanding the Climate of Mount Blachnitzky

Mount Blachnitzky has a subarctic climate. This means it has very cold, snowy winters and mild summers.

How Does Weather Reach the Mountain?

Most weather systems start over the Pacific Ocean. They then travel east towards the Coast Mountains. When these weather systems hit the mountains, they are forced to rise. This process is called Orographic lift. As the air rises, it cools down and drops its moisture.

What is the Result of This Weather?

Because of this, the Coast Mountains get a lot of rain and snow. Winter months, especially, see heavy snowfall.

How Cold Does It Get?

Temperatures can drop below -20 degrees Celsius (which is -4 degrees Fahrenheit). With the wind, it can feel even colder, sometimes below -30 degrees Celsius (-22 degrees Fahrenheit).

When is the Best Time to Visit?

The month of July usually has the best weather. This makes it the most favorable time for people to view or climb Mount Blachnitzky.

Images for kids

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  Gilkey Glacier. Mt. Blachnitzky to right of center

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  Gilkey Glacier, Mt. Blachnitzky to right, Mt. Queena centered. Circa 1955