Mount Spurr
Mountain Active volcano in Alaska's Aleutian volcanic arc
West of Cook Inlet, Mount Spurr is an active volcano in Alaska’s Aleutian Arc; scientists monitor its activity and adventurous climbers occasionally visit its flanks.
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Mount Spurr is an active stratovolcano in the Aleutian volcanic arc of Alaska, part of the Chigmit Mountains. Its summit area and flank cones are monitored because of periodic eruptive activity.
The mountain and surrounding backcountry are remote and rugged, attracting volcanologists and experienced mountaineers rather than general tourists. The terrain includes glaciated slopes and steep ridgelines; approach typically requires bush plane or long overland travel from roadheads in southwestern Alaska.
The volcano has produced notable explosive eruptions in the modern record, including activity from a flank cone in 1992 that generated ash plumes which disrupted air traffic. It is considered an active volcanic center within the Aleutian arc and is subject to ongoing monitoring.
Located in southcentral Alaska, Mount Spurr lies on the Alaska mainland within the Chigmit Mountains and the Aleutian volcanic chain, roughly west of the Anchorage region.
- Elevation: Summit elevation is about 3,374 metres (11,070 feet).
- Volcanic activity: Known for producing explosive eruptions from its flank cone in 1992 that generated ash plumes and affected aviation; monitored as an active volcano.
What to See #
- Crater Peak: A younger summit cone on the east flank that produced historic eruptions, including activity in 1992-1993.
Tips for Visiting Mount Spurr #
- Mount Spurr is an active volcano - always check Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) alerts and NOTAMs for aviation advisories before planning travel or aerial sightseeing.
- Best viewing conditions are in the clearer summer months; if you want close-up views consider booking an aerial sightseeing or charter flight from Anchorage with an operator experienced flying into volcanic areas rather than expecting road access.
- If there is any seismic or eruptive unrest, postpone visits - coordinate with AVO and local operators to avoid ashfall hazards and aviation restrictions.
Best Time to Visit Mount Spurr #
Visit in summer (June-August) for the most reliable access and milder conditions; winter is cold, snowy, and remote.
Weather & Climate near Mount Spurr #
Mount Spurr's climate is classified as Ice Cap - Ice Cap climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in March). Temperatures range from -18°C to 4°C. Moderate rainfall (764 mm/year).
January
January is freezing with highs of -10°C and lows of -16°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -14°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm).
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March
March is the coldest month with highs of -13°C and lows of -18°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm).
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April
April is freezing with highs of -10°C and lows of -16°C. Moderate rainfall (34 mm).
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May
May is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -9°C. The driest month with just 28 mm.
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June
June is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -5°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm).
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July
July is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (102 mm).
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September
September is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -6°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm).
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October
October is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -14°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm).
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November
November is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -16°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -15°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm).
