Higher Spire

Higher Spire is a summit in Alaska, United States.

Description

Higher Spire is located north of Palmer, Alaska, in the Talkeetna Mountains and in the Hatcher Pass Management Area of the state park system. Precipitation runoff from this peak drains south to the Little Susitna River via Reed Creek, whereas the north side drains to Bartholf Creek which is a tributary of the Kashwitna River. Topographic relief is significant as the summit rises above Lower Reed Lake in. The nearest higher neighbor is Lynx Peak to the east. The Snowbird Hut on the northern edge of the Snowbird Glacier provides shelter and access for climbing Higher Spire and Lower Spire. This peak's toponym has been featured in publications since at least 1969, but it has not been officially adopted by the United States Board on Geographic Names.

Lower Spire

Lower Spire is set southwest of Higher Spire. It reaches an elevation of and has a topographical prominence of. It is also set above the Snowbird Glacier.

Climate

Based on the Köppen climate classification, Higher Spire is located in a subarctic climate zone with long, cold, snowy winters, and short cool summers. Winter temperatures can drop below 0 °F with wind chill factors below −10 °F. This climate supports the Snowbird Glacier on the west slope of the peak. The months of May through June offer the most favorable weather for climbing or viewing.