Mount Kimball (Alaska) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Kimball |
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 Mount Kimball
Location in Alaska
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 10,300+ ft (3,139+ m) |
| Prominence | 7,424 ft (2,263 m) |
| Listing |
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| Geography | |
| Location | Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, Alaska, U.S. |
| Parent range | Delta Mountains, Alaska Range |
| Topo map | USGS Mount Hayes A-2 |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | June 13, 1969 by Tom Kensler, Mike Sallee, Dan Osborne, Grace Hoeman |
| Easiest route | Southwest Ridge: glacier/snow/ice/rock climb (Alaska Grade 2+) |
Mount Kimball is a very tall mountain located in the state of Alaska, United States. It is the highest peak in a specific part of the eastern Alaska Range. This area is found between two important mountain passes: Isabel Pass and Mentasta Pass.
The mountain is about 30 miles away from a small place called Paxson. Mount Kimball is also known for being one of the top twenty most "prominent" peaks in all of Alaska. A prominent peak means it stands out a lot from the land around it.
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Exploring Mount Kimball
Mount Kimball is a significant mountain for several reasons. It stands over 10,300 feet (3,139 meters) tall. Its location in the Delta Mountains makes it a key part of the larger Alaska Range.
This mountain is special because it is the tallest in its section of the eastern Alaska Range. This area is quite remote and wild. The Richardson Highway goes through Isabel Pass, and the Glenn Highway goes through Mentasta Pass. These highways help people get closer to the mountain's general area.
Why is Mount Kimball Hard to Climb?
Even though Mount Kimball is not the absolute tallest mountain in Alaska, it is considered a very difficult climb. This is because of its challenging ridge terrain. Imagine trying to climb along a narrow, rocky, and icy path high up on a mountain!
Before its first successful climb, many experienced mountaineers tried and failed. Eight different climbing attempts were made by skilled Alaskan climbers. They were all turned back by the mountain's tough conditions.
The First Ascent Story
Mount Kimball was finally conquered on June 13, 1969. A team of four climbers made history that day. The team included Tom Kensler, Mike Sallee, Dan Osborne, and Grace Hoeman.
Their successful climb showed how determined and skilled they were. The easiest way to climb Mount Kimball is called the "Southwest Ridge" route. This route involves climbing over glaciers, snow, ice, and rock. It is considered an "Alaska Grade 2+" climb, which means it is quite challenging.
A Remote Mountain
Mount Kimball is not climbed very often. This is mainly because it is so remote. Being remote means it is far away from towns and easy access. It also doesn't get as much attention as some of Alaska's other, even taller mountains.
However, for those who love a true wilderness adventure, Mount Kimball offers a unique and challenging experience. It remains a wild and impressive part of Alaska's vast mountain landscape.
