Peak 5390 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Peak 5390 |
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Peak 5390 is farthest to the left
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 5,390 ft (1,640 m) |
| Geography | |
 Peak 5390
Location in Alaska
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| Topo map | USGS Sitka |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Scramble |
Peak 5390 is the tallest mountain on Baranof Island in southeast Alaska. It's also the highest point in the entire Alexander Archipelago. People sometimes call it Veniaminof Peak or Lacey Peak. The name "Peak 5390" comes from its height in feet. However, official maps from the USGS don't have a specific name for it. This makes Peak 5390 a very special place. It is the highest island peak in the U.S. outside of the Aleutian Islands in Alaska and the big volcanoes on Hawaiʻi and Maui islands.
Exploring Peak 5390
Peak 5390 is located right in the middle of Baranof Island. Because of this, it can take hikers one or two nights to reach its base. The mountain is a nunatak, which means it's a rocky peak that sticks out from a surrounding icefield. Only the very top of the mountain rises above the ice.
The Climb to the Top
The journey to Peak 5390 is quite challenging. It involves crossing rocky ridges and a large glacier. Climbers also need to navigate a glacial headwall and a seasonal opening in the ice called a bergschrund. Because of these difficult conditions, only experienced climbers should try to reach the summit. It's also a good idea to get advice from people who know the area well.
Amazing Views from the Summit
If you're lucky enough to be on top of Peak 5390 on a clear day, the views are incredible! You can see the mainland and the huge Coast Mountains. Famous peaks like Devils Thumb and other sharp mountains in the Stikine Icecap are also visible. From far away, Peak 5390 itself is easy to spot from the Baranof Cross-Island Trail. Only the valley of the Baranof River separates the two.
