Chugach Mountains

The Chugach Mountains of southern Alaska are the northernmost of the several mountain ranges that make up the Coast Ranges of the western edge of North America. The range is about 500 km (300 mi) long, running generally east-west. Its highest point is Mount Marcus Baker, at 4,016 m (13,176 ft.), but most of its summits are not especially high. Even so its position along the Gulf of Alaska ensure more snowfall in the Chugach than anywhere else in the world; an annual average of over 1500 cm (600 in).

The mountains are protected in the Chugach State Park and the Chugach National Forest. Near to Anchorage, they are a popular destination for outdoor activities. The World Extreme Skiing Championships are held annually in the Chugach.

The Richardson Highway and the Copper River are the only accesses through the Chugach mountains. The railroad (and now highway) tunnel from Portage on Turnagain Arm to Whittier on Passage Canal also provides access through the Chugach to Prince William Sound.

Mountains:

• Mount Marcus Baker (4,106 m)