Fairbanks Environs: Mount Prindle

BETA PHOTO: American Creek drainage with NE Fork crossing unde...

Description 

Two significant walls (300 ft & 900 ft) exist on the aspects of Mount Prindle's south facing headwall and surrounding slopes. The 900 ft Main Wall has several satellite buttresses, and there are many other lesser formations in the general area with plenty of established routes and potential projects. The area is remote, secluded and the chances that you run into another party is even more remote. The area is composed of granite whose quality ranges from good on the more established routes to substandard on the less familiar or first ascents. This is typical Alaska so be prepared for dramatic weather changes, wildlife, seclusion and the know how on working a compass. Management of this area falls under the auspices of White Mountains National Recreation Area and a National Research Area so there is some ambiguity as to access vis a vis camping. There is no ambiguity though concerning other recreational activities: no ATV use! If you do decide to camp (realistically this is not a one day climbing destination) climbers should minimize impact and keep a low profile by utilizing a knoll below the SE Buttress. Leave No Trace ethics should be the objective of all responsible climbers.

Getting There 

Mount Prindle Area Climbing Guide by Stan Justice, with contributions by the Alaska Alpine Club, contains the most accurate approach information for this area. Generally speaking, the drive is two hours from Fairbanks, a 4x4 vehicle with clearance is encouraged and the approach just to the base of the primary climbing areas is 3-4 hours. I highly recommend that you purchase this guide before attempting climbs in the area.

Add Photo Photos of Fairbanks Environs: Mount Prindle

BETA PHOTO: Mount Prindle climbing area, after ascending Zephy...	BETA PHOTO: 900 ft Main Wall with its' satellite buttresses.	BETA PHOTO: 300 Foot Wall located across from the NE Fork of A...
Looking west upcreek in SE Fork of American Creek@...	circa 1999, Dan McNamara finishing through the the...