Geology of Denali
Course Information
Look closely at Denali’s stunning landscape and you’ll find yourself inside a geological thriller. The park’s deep geologic history is a saga of violent volcanic eruptions, crustal collisions that built North America’s highest peak, and the powerful and persistent sculpting power of glaciers and rivers, all punctuated by dramatic earthquakes and landslides.
Course Details
Whether you’re a casual geology enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Denali has a captivating geological story to tell – if you’re ready to hear the tale. Join Denali geologist Haley Williams to investigate some of Denali’s most notable geology sites. We’ll explore permafrost-driven landslides and debris flow channels, learn hard rock and mineral identification, and use observational methods to study the rapid landscape evolution we’re seeing as a consequence of climate change. Along the way, we’ll explore how to think critically about the landscape and why it looks the way it does. Expect to get your hands dirty and go home filled with geological wonder.
Physical Requirements
You must be physically prepared for brisk, destination-oriented off-trail hiking up to 5 miles each day, with climbs up to 2000 feet. You should be physically conditioned to do these hikes comfortably. Expect loose rock, uneven footing, dense undergrowth, steep hillside traverses, and stream crossings lower than knee height. Good coordination is required.. Please review the Difficulty Level Scale for more information.
Like any outdoor activity, there are inherent risks associated with our field courses yet we actively manage our exposures and depend on you to play a role in our risk management. Read more here.
Professional Development Credit
One professional development credit is available for this course through the office of Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) at the University of Alaska Anchorage for an additional fee of $79. Information on the credit requirements and how to register and pay for the credit are available from the links below. The course syllabus and registration instructions will be available in May.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations and/or substitutions that occur 60 days in advance of the course start date will be refunded the course fee, less a processing fee of $50 per space. For cancellations and/or substitutions 59 to 8 days before the course start date, the entire fee will be retained unless we can fill your space. There will be no refunds within 7 days of the course start date. Registration fees are not transferable to future years. If we have to cancel a course, your entire fee will be refunded. Refunds will be credited to the credit card used during the original transaction if less than 60 days since the original transaction. All other refunds will be made through a mailed check. All membership purchases are non-refundable and non-transferable.
To cancel your registration, email courses@akgeo.org, or call 907-683-9632 or 907-771-8485.