Category: interior

Hidden River

At approximately mile marker 145 on the Parks Highway, this relatively unknown valley heads northwest into the southern flanks of the Alaska Range. The drainage is about midway between Trapper Creek and Cantwell and actually lies in Denali State Park. You will need to ensure you can cross the Chulitna River safely and a few other small streams. Make your way over some hilly old growth forest and then make your way up the Hidden River valley. In 2012, we received the first report of 4 new routes nearly 21 miles up the valley.

alert icon ALERT: Be sure to check on current snow conditions in the Park.

Panorama Mountain

Panorama Peak sits at the threshold of Alaska Range just north of Cantwell. The mountain itself has incredible features and definitely stands out amongst the others in the area. It is situated just east of the Parks Highway, and for this reason it is extremely accessible for single day ascents.

This area is documented in Roman Dial’s forum link iconPanorama Ice Guide.

  • Porcupine
  • Phoenix
  • Third World
  • Truancy

Fox Creek

Rating: WI3
Length: 50 meters

This is a relatively moderate and short route but is rather wide and can accommodate several climbing groups. It is possible to gain access on the left gully to the top of the route to set up a top-rope. There is also an interesting rock wall to the left of the main ice route for challenging mixed terrain. A tree is easily accessible on the top of the rock route.

FA:

Anchor/Descent: Trees are present for a rappel. A walk off is possible.

Dragonfly Creek

Rating: WI3
Length: 2 distinct pillars, 10 meters and 20 meters, 40-50 meters total

This route is composed of two steps that can be combined into a short pitch. The first step holds a couple of different variations on interesting ice and some rock on the right in thin conditions. The second step climbs more moderate ice back to the rap anchor. The location of this climb with Nenana Valley below makes this climb worth the trip.

FA:

Descent: Alder bushes at the top exist for the rap.