This little mountain is called Pioneer Peak. Everybody who lives in the Palmer/Wasilla area gets to look at this mountain every day the clouds are not obliterating it. Pioneer Peak probably looks taller than it is because the base of the mountain sits squarely at sea level. So, the summit is only at a 6500′ elevation. The broad flat leading to the foot of Pioneer Peak is called, “The Valley”. One of our state senators, Ben Stevens, used the term “Valley Trash” to describe the residents of this area … and the name stuck. I must admit that The Valley has it’s fair share of red-neck roots, but that’s nothing to be ashamed of. I grew up with a blue tarp in the front yard, skiing in Carharts coveralls, and using old an pick-up truck hood as a sled…..what’s wrong with that?
The biggest problem with The Valley is not the Valley Trash but the blasted wind. It’s not so-bad in the Summer, but during the Winter months it is relentless. I wrote about this back in March of last year, and I posted some pictures from a big storm, you can see them here.