Mount Logan: The Crown Jewel of Canada’s Peaks

September 30, 2023
7 mins read
Aerial image of Mount Logan rising above the clouds in Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon, Canada
Photo by: Robert Postma
Mount Logan Interactive Explorer

Explore Mount Logan

Canada’s Highest Peak – An Interactive Journey Through Facts, Wildlife, and History

⛰️
Elevation
5,959 m
19,551 feet above sea level – Canada’s highest point and second in North America
📍
Location
Yukon
Kluane National Park, Saint Elias Mountains, less than 40 km from Alaska border
🧊
Ice Thickness
300 m
Nearly 980 feet of ice cap covers the summit due to minimal snow melt
🌡️
Average Temperature
-27°C
Annual median on the 5,000m plateau; winter temps drop to -45°C
📏
Summit Plateau
19 km
Massive elongated plateau with three summits exceeding 5,890m
🏔️
Base Circumference
Largest
Widest base of any non-volcanic mountain on Earth

How Mount Logan Measures Up

Mount Logan 5,959 m
96%
Denali (Highest in North America) 6,194 m
100%
Mount Everest 8,849 m
67%
Mont Blanc (Highest in Alps) 4,809 m
81%

Mount Logan stands as a giant among peaks. While Denali claims the title of North America’s highest, Mount Logan possesses the largest base circumference of any non-volcanic mountain globally. The mountain continues to grow approximately 0.35mm per year due to tectonic uplift.

Mountaineering Milestones

1925
First ascent by Albert H. MacCarthy and team via King Trench route on June 23. The expedition walked 200 km to reach the base.
1959
Second ascent and first alpine-style climb via East Ridge. Hans Gmoser and team hiked and skied 160 km from Kluane Lake.
1965
Legendary Hummingbird Ridge climb completed by Dick Long and team over 30 days. This technically challenging route remains unrepeated as of 2023.
1992
Geological Survey of Canada expedition uses GPS to establish precise elevation of 5,959 meters, ending decades of uncertainty.
Present
King Trench route has 50% success rate; East Ridge only 25%. The mountain’s remoteness and extreme weather make it one of the most challenging climbs offered by expedition companies.

Diverse Ecosystems Around the Peak

The region surrounding Mount Logan hosts remarkable biodiversity. From the base to the lower slopes, various species thrive in this subarctic wilderness within Kluane National Park.

🦌
Caribou
🐻
Grizzly Bears
🐏
Dall Sheep
🦅
Golden Eagles
🦜
Peregrine Falcons
🐦
Ptarmigan

The area transforms dramatically with seasons. Summer brings wildflowers in vibrant colors, autumn paints the landscape in reds and oranges, winter creates a snow-covered wonderland, and spring awakens the land with meltwater.

Challenge Yourself

What is unique about Mount Logan’s physical structure compared to other mountains?
A) It’s the tallest mountain in North America
B) It has the largest base circumference of any non-volcanic mountain on Earth
C) It’s located closest to the Arctic Circle
D) It has the steepest climbing routes
Who was Mount Logan named after?
A) A famous mountaineer who first climbed it
B) Sir William Logan, a geologist and founder of the Geological Survey of Canada
C) A Canadian Prime Minister
D) An indigenous leader from the Yukon
What is the approximate median annual temperature on Mount Logan’s 5,000m plateau?
A) -10°C
B) -15°C
C) -27°C
D) -35°C

Crowned as the highest peak in Canada, Mount Logan boasts a majestic elevation of 19,551 feet above sea level, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape. Nestled within the stunning Kluane National Park in Yukon, Mount Logan presents travelers with a captivating blend of rugged terrain and untouched wilderness. The peak forms part of the larger Saint Elias Mountains, which are renowned for their dramatic and diverse geographical features.

Historical and Cultural Significance:

This towering mountain is named in honor of Sir William Logan, a geologist whose work significantly contributed to Canada’s scientific landscape. Mount Logan’s cultural significance is deeply intertwined with the indigenous peoples of the region, who have inhabited the land for thousands of years. Traditional stories and legends about Mount Logan are passed down through generations, preserving the rich heritage and spiritual connection to the mountain.

Natural Beauty and Biodiversity:

Providing a picturesque backdrop for adventurers, the beauty of Mount Logan is accentuated by the breathtaking glaciers and icefields that adorn its slopes. Offering wildlife enthusiasts a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the region, the base of Mount Logan is surrounded by a variety of flora and fauna. Showcasing the area’s rich biodiversity, caribou, grizzly bears, and Dall sheep are some of the iconic species that roam the peak. Visiting Mount Logan, bird watchers can expect to encounter golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and the iconic ptarmigan, emblematic of the region’s avian diversity.

Seasonal Transformations:

An explosion of wildflowers around Mount Logan is brought by the summer, painting the landscape in a vibrant array of colors and fragrances. The area undergoes dramatic transformations as the seasons change, with autumn foliage creating a canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. As snow blankets the landscape, winter at Mount Logan is a magical spectacle, offering opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Filling the air with sounds of life, the spring sees the awakening of the land, as meltwater emerges from hibernation.


Similar Post


Adventures and Activities:

Avid hikers and mountaineers are attracted by the challenging trails around Mount Logan, seeking to conquer the peak and witness the awe-inspiring views. Each offering unique perspectives and challenges on the ascent to the summit, the King Trench and East Ridge routes are popular among climbers. A serene escape for those looking to connect with nature and experience the tranquility of the wilderness is provided by camping near Mount Logan. Unparalleled stargazing opportunities are offered by the pristine skies above Mount Logan, where the Milky Way can be observed in all its celestial glory.

Educational and Research Significance:

Mount Logan is frequented by scientists and researchers to study its geology, climate, and biodiversity. The glaciers of the mountain serve as a vital indicator of climate change, as their retreat and advance are meticulously monitored by environmental scientists. Gaining insights into glacier dynamics and experiencing the thrill of ice climbing, visitors can explore the nearby Icefield Discovery Camp. A deeper understanding and appreciation of the mountain’s ecological significance are fostered by educational programs and workshops around Mount Logan.

Local Experiences and Services:

Mount Logan is found by photography enthusiasts to be a treasure trove of scenic vistas, capturing the mountain’s grandeur through their lenses. Sharing their knowledge of the area’s history, geology, and ecology, local guides offer specialized tours, enriching the visitor’s experience. A unique perspective of Mount Logan is provided by helicopter tours, allowing visitors to soar above the peak and witness the landscape’s grandeur from the skies. Insightful exhibits and information are offered by the Kluane National Park Visitor Center, preparing travelers for their journey through this remarkable region.

In A Nutshell

The remote location of Mount Logan adds to its allure, as the journey to reach the base is an adventure in itself. With travelers advised to be well-prepared and equipped to handle the unpredictable mountain conditions, safety is paramount. Providing a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the serenity of Mount Logan’s surroundings invites contemplation and reflection. With memories of the experience etched in their minds forever, visitors to Mount Logan are often left in awe of the mountain’s sheer scale and beauty. Offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who venture to explore its majestic slopes, Mount Logan stands as a symbol of Canada’s natural beauty.

Tejal Somvanshi

Meet Tejal Somvanshi, a soulful wanderer and a staunch wellness advocate, who elegantly navigates through the enchanting domains of Fashion and Beauty with a natural panache. Her journey, vividly painted with hues from a vibrant past in the media production world, empowers her to carve out stories that slice through the cacophony, where brands morph into characters and marketing gimmicks evolve into intriguing plot twists. To Tejal, travel is not merely an activity; it unfolds as a chapter brimming with adventures and serendipitous tales, while health is not just a regimen but a steadfast companion in her everyday epic. In the realms of fashion and beauty, she discovers her muse, weaving a narrative where each style narrates a story, and every beauty trend sparks a dialogue. Tejal seamlessly melds the spontaneous spirit of the media industry with the eloquent prose of a storyteller, crafting tales as vibrant and dynamic as the industry she thrives in.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Goats return to the Glen
Previous Story

Goats to the Rescue: Towson University’s Green Solution to Invasive Plants!

Nathan Collins
Next Story

Stargazer’s Dream: Rubin Observatory’s Camera Lights Up Cosmic Wonders

Latest from Travel

Rainy street in Puerto de Mazarrón, Murcia, Spain with shallow flooding and parked cars

Spain Storm Alice: The 4-Hour Rain Number To Watch

Spain & Balearics: Heavy Rain, Storms, and Local Flash Flood Risk Yellow/amber alerts in southeast Spain (Alicante, Benidorm, Valencia) and Ibiza/Formentera; strong, slow-moving showers expected between Oct 8–12, 2025. Yellow/Amber Alerts Active
Hand using an official stamp on a passport with travel documents visible on a wooden desk.

UAE Halts Visas for 9 Countries Amid Security Concerns

The United Arab Emirates has reportedly halted issuing tourist and work visas to citizens from nine countries. This change affects new applications from Afghanistan, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Lebanon, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Sudan, and