Location and surroundings
Mount Reaburn is a peak situated in the United States, within the state of Alaska and the administrative area of Yakutat district or county. Regionally, it belongs to North America. The mountain is part of a broad mountain range hierarchy starting from the North American Cordillera, extending through the Pacific Coast Ranges and the Saint Elias Mountains, continuing into the Southern Icefield Ranges, and culminating in the Brabazon Range. The surrounding landscape is defined by rugged terrain typical of high-latitude coastal mountain systems, shaped by regional climate patterns and glaciated valleys.
Neighbouring peaks
The immediate area around Mount Reaburn features several other summits and geographical points. The nearest peaks and passes include:
- Azimuth Peak, peak, elevation unknown, 19.8 km SE
- Crescent Mountain, peak, 1,454 m, 27.5 km NW
- Slate Peak, peak, 1,030 m, 30.8 km NW
- Black Tit, peak, 1,393 m, 32.6 km NW
- Mount Herbert, peak, 1,641 m, 37.1 km N
- Mount Herbert, peak, 1,563 m, 37.3 km N
- Mount Pinta, peak, 1,686 m, 40.4 km NW
- Mount Wade, peak, 2,099 m, 40.8 km N
Compared to these surrounding elevations, Mount Reaburn stands at 1,684 metres, placing it close in height to nearby Mount Pinta and Mount Herbert, while remaining lower than major regional giants like Mount Wade.
The view from the summit
From the high point of Mount Reaburn, visibility encompasses the surrounding high alpine terrain of the Brabazon Range and the broader Southern Icefield Ranges. Among the nearest higher peaks, Mount Pinta rises to 1,686 metres at a distance of 40.4 km to the northwest. Other prominent summits within the extended vicinity include Mount Wade at 2,099 metres to the north, along with a collection of rugged peaks stretching across the rugged Alaskan landscape.
The range
Mount Reaburn is part of the Brabazon Range, which forms a subdivision of the Southern Icefield Ranges, the Saint Elias Mountains, the Pacific Coast Ranges, and the North American Cordillera. The high point of the Brabazon Range reaches higher elevations within the system. The range features multiple named peaks across the local terrain, contributing to the extensive alpine character of the region.
Climate and weather
Climate data for Mount Reaburn consists of estimates from NASA POWER climate data spanning 2001 to 2020, with temperatures adjusted to the summit elevation. Mean temperatures at the summit indicate that the warmest month is July at about 2 °C, and the coldest month is January at about -9 °C. Months with a mean temperature above freezing at the summit are June, July, and August. In the surrounding area, precipitation reaches about 3,050 mm a year, with October being the wettest month at about 370 mm and June the driest at about 135 mm. Mountain weather in this region typically brings rapid changes, high winds, and winter storms.
Best time to visit
Based on the monthly climate means, the period from June through August offers the most favourable conditions, as these are the only months with a mean temperature above freezing at the summit. June also corresponds to the driest month in the surrounding area, with lower precipitation averages compared to the autumn peak in October. Visitors during the summer window still need to prepare for variable alpine weather typical of the region.
Nature and wildlife
The environment around Mount Reaburn is characterized by subarctic and alpine conditions typical of the Saint Elias Mountains. Vegetation is sparse at higher elevations, consisting mainly of hardy mosses, lichens, and low alpine plants, while lower slopes support coastal tundra and resilient shrub communities. Wildlife in this remote Alaskan region includes species adapted to cold climates, such as mountain goats, bears, and various migratory and resident birds.
Guides and organised ascents
A certified mountain guide is advisable for ascents in high alpine terrain involving steep slopes and variable weather. In the United States, the national mountain guide association is the American Mountain Guides Association, which is an IFMGA/UIAGM member. The national alpine club is the American Alpine Club. Established guiding companies operating in the country include RMI Expeditions based in Ashford, Washington, and Exum Mountain Guides based in Moose, Wyoming, serving as examples of where visitors turn for professional mountain support. Climbers should also note regional permit rules, as certain peaks in the United States require climbing registration or permits from the land agency, such as Denali where registration is required at least 60 days ahead, and Mount Rainier on glaciers or above high camps.
Safety and preparation
Ascending a peak like Mount Reaburn requires appropriate alpine gear, route-finding skills, and preparation for sudden weather shifts. In the event of an emergency, the general emergency number in the United States is 911, which connects callers to dispatchers who alert the local search and rescue team, usually run by the county sheriff or national park service.
Interesting facts
Mount Reaburn stands at an elevation of 1,684 metres within the Brabazon Range in Alaska. The nearest higher peak is Mount Pinta, which reaches 1,686 metres and is located 40.4 km to the northwest. The mountain is situated within the Yakutat district and forms part of the extensive North American Cordillera system.
FAQ
What is the elevation of Mount Reaburn? The mountain has an elevation of 1,684 metres.
Where is Mount Reaburn located? It is located in the United States, within the state of Alaska and the Yakutat district.
Which mountain range does it belong to? It belongs to the Brabazon Range, part of the Southern Icefield Ranges, Saint Elias Mountains, Pacific Coast Ranges, and North American Cordillera.
What are the nearest peaks to Mount Reaburn? Nearby peaks include Azimuth Peak, Crescent Mountain, Slate Peak, Black Tit, Mount Herbert, Mount Pinta, and Mount Wade.
Is there water on the way to Mount Reaburn? There are no specific huts or mapped springs listed along the routes. Water sources in this alpine and glaciated terrain generally consist of seasonal snowmelt and streams, which must be treated or filtered before drinking. Climbers should carry an adequate supply of 1.5 to 3 litres of water depending on the length of the trip.
What is the mobile phone coverage like on the mountain? Coverage in remote Alaskan mountain areas is generally patchy and depends heavily on the operator. It often fails in deep valleys and behind ridges. Emergency calls can reach services over any available network, and topographic maps should be downloaded before setting out.