Polar Bear Peak
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Polar Bear Peak | |
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The Northern face of Polar Bear Peak |
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Elevation | 6,614 feet (2,016 m) |
Location | Alaska, United States |
Range | Chugach Mountains |
Coordinates | Coordinates: |
First ascent | 1966; Vin Hoeman, C. Serfoss |
Polar Bear Peak is a 6,614 ft. mountain in the U.S. state of Alaska, located in Chugach State Park. Sitauted in the Chugach Mountains, it lies at the head of South Fork Eagle River, 5 mi ESE of Eagle Lake, and 22 miles (35 km) ESE of Anchorage. The peak was named in 1963 by members of the Mountaineering Club of Alaska because a snow patch on its north face resembles a Polar Bear skin.[1]
[edit] Terrain
Beginning at approximately 1000 ft., Polar Bear Peak becomes a predominantly alpine zone, characterized by exposed rock, extremely scant vegetation, a variety of lichens, and snow pack (including year-round snowfields and glaciers).
[edit] Wildlife
Like many Alaskan mountains, Polar Bear Peak may be frequented by ptarmigan, Dall sheep, mountain goats, and other alpine animals. Despite the lack of vegetation, a variety of insects thrive at high elevations throughout Alaska. Overhead, one may spot a hawk or eagle.