Why are glaciers common in the Alaska Range?

Glaciers are common in the Alaska Range primarily due to the extreme elevation and rugged topography of its mountain masses, which support the formation and accumulation of ice. The range features several high peaks, including Denali—the highest point in North America—which serves as a central massif from which great valley glaciers radiate.12

While the range is generally characterized as extremely rugged and glaciated, the prevalence of glaciers varies by location; they are most extensive around the major mountain masses, whereas the lower eastern sectors of the range contain only small glaciers.1