Ukinrek maars
Crater Paired volcanic maars formed by 1977 eruption in Alaska
The Ukinrek maars on the Alaska Peninsula are twin volcanic craters formed during a 1977 eruption. Geologists visit the scoria rings and shallow crater lakes; the setting is remote tundra and coastal plain.
The Ukinrek maars are a pair of volcanic explosion craters on the Alaska Peninsula notable for their formation during a single, well-documented eruption in 1977. They are classic phreatomagmatic maars surrounded by tephra rings and provide a rare modern example of maar creation.
The two adjacent craters were excavated by explosive interaction of magma with groundwater, producing ash, scoria, and bomb deposits and building low surrounding rings. Since the 1977 event the maars have remained distinct, unroofed craters that are useful for studying explosive volcanic processes.
They lie in a remote, sparsely populated part of the Alaska Peninsula within rugged tundra and basaltic terrain. Access is limited and typically requires overland or chartered boat or aircraft support given the lack of nearby roads or settlements.
Geographically the maars sit on the Alaska Peninsula, part of the Aleutian volcanic arc region.
- 1977 eruption: Formed during a documented eruption in 1977, when phreatomagmatic activity produced the two maars and associated ejecta.
What to See #
- East and West maars: Two adjacent explosion craters created by the 1977 eruption; both are broad, shallow maars with surrounding tephra rings.
How to Get to Ukinrek maars #
Ukinrek maars lie in a remote part of the Alaska Peninsula. Access requires careful logistical planning - typically via bush plane or by long overland/sea approaches from regional hubs. Check conditions and coordinate with local guides and the Alaska Volcano Observatory before travel.
Tips for Visiting Ukinrek maars #
- Only attempt approach with an experienced outfitter; the maars are in remote terrain and conditions can be harsh.
- Bring geology reference materials or a field guide - the contrasting colors of the maars and surrounding tundra are striking up close.
- Inquire with Alaska Volcano Observatory for any advisories or access notes before travel.
Best Time to Visit Ukinrek maars #
Visit in the short Alaska summer for the most reliable access conditions; always monitor volcanic and weather advisories.
Weather & Climate near Ukinrek maars #
Ukinrek maars's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -10°C to 16°C. Moderate rainfall (615 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -2°C and lows of -9°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -10°C. The driest month with just 28 mm.
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March
March is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (33 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm).
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July
July is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 5°C. The wettest month with 81 mm of rain.
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October
October is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (74 mm).
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November
November is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -5°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm).
