[2] "Matanuska" is derived from the Russian term for the "copper river people".

[3][4] The Matanuska Peak Trail is a five mile one-way hike with 5,670 feet of elevation gain and minor scrambling.

The months June through October offer the most favorable weather and snow-free trail conditions to climb this peak.

The Matanuska Peak Challenge is a strenuous race run in August each year.

Based on the Köppen climate classification, Matanuska Peak is located in a subarctic climate zone with long, cold, snowy winters, and mild summers.