Obsidian Peaks
A volcanic cone rising from the Chilcotin Plateau, a source of obsidian for Indigenous peoples.
Anahim Peak, also spelled Anaham, ʔAnaghim, or Anaheim, is a volcanic cone in the Anahim Volcanic Belt in British Columbia, Canada, located 39 km northwest of Anahim Lake and 11 km east of Tsitsutl Peak. It was formed when the North American Plate moved over a hotspot, similar to the one feeding the Hawaiian Islands, called the Anahim hotspot. It is one of the several volcanoes in the Anahim Volcanic Belt that stands out all by itself, rising from the Chilcotin Plateau, between the Rainbow Range and the Ilgachuz Range and near the headwaters of the Dean River.
- Type
- Volcanic Cone
- Primary Hazard
- None specified in source
- Notable Flora
- None specified in source
- Strategic Role
- Source of obsidian for tool-making and trade
- Atmosphere
- None specified in source
Lore & Background
The Carrier (Dakelh) name for Anahim Peak is Bes But'a, meaning 'obsidian peak.' To the Tsilhqot'in Nation, the mountain is called Bis Nadiʔah (also meaning 'obsidian peak'), or Tŝi-bis Gunlin Xadalgwenlh ('mountain where there is obsidian stone'). The word bes (bis in Tŝilhqot’in) is anglicised as 'beece', another word for obsidian and also an early designation for this mountain. The name Anahim is that of Chief Anahim, a leader of the Tsilhqot'in people in the mid-19th Century. The Nuxalk (ItNuxalkmc) name for Anahim Peak is Anuxim, meaning shining out, or shining on the inside. In the origin story of mount Nusq'lst, mount Anuxim is the father of Tl'isla, the wife of mount Nusq'lst.
In Their Own Story
Anahim Peak was a significant source of obsidian for the Nuxalk, Tsilhqot'in, and Dakelh peoples. Obsidian was desirable because extremely sharp arrowheads and cutting knives could be made from it. It was also used for jewellery. Anahim obsidian was traded widely all over the BC Interior and up and down the Coast from Bella Coola. Red ochre was used in paint and decoration was also taken from this area. Anahim Peak is not far from the small community of Anahim Lake.
Reader's Guide
Anahim Peak stands as a notable landmark in the Anahim Volcanic Belt, rising alone from the Chilcotin Plateau between the Rainbow Range and the Ilgachuz Range. Its volcanic origin, tied to the Anahim hotspot, makes it part of a chain of volcanoes that formed as the North American Plate moved over a stationary mantle plume. For those interested in geology or Indigenous history, the peak offers a direct connection to the region's volcanic past and the cultural significance of obsidian. The mountain's multiple names—Bes But'a, Bis Nadiʔah, Anuxim—reflect the diverse First Nations who have used and named it over centuries. Travelers near Anahim Lake can see it rising to the northwest, a solitary cone that marks a key source of the sharp, glassy stone that shaped tools and trade across British Columbia.
Did You Know?
- Anahim Peak is also spelled Anaham, ʔAnaghim, or Anaheim.
- The Carrier (Dakelh) name for the peak is Bes But'a, meaning 'obsidian peak.'
- The name Anahim comes from Chief Anahim, a Tsilhqot'in leader in the mid-19th Century.
- Anahim obsidian was traded widely all over the BC Interior and up and down the Coast from Bella Coola.
- Red ochre used for paint and decoration was also taken from the Anahim Peak area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Obsidian Peaks?
The Obsidian Peaks constitute a dangerous mountain range composed of jagged, light-absorbing black volcanic stone. This region is perpetually enveloped in twilight mist and serves as a significant geographical landmark within the Azarinth Healer world.
Why are the Obsidian Peaks considered dangerous?
Travelers face significant risks due to the region's shifting ground and frequent eruptions of toxic ash clouds. These environmental hazards make navigation treacherous for anyone attempting to cross the range.
What strategic purpose do the Obsidian Peaks serve?
This mountain range functions as a formidable divide separating the fertile lowlands from ancient, forgotten ruins where dark energies accumulate. It effectively controls access between the inhabited zones and the corrupted lands beyond.
What unique plants can be found in this region?
The harsh, mineral-rich soil supports rare flora such as Shadow-root and Ember-lilies that cannot survive elsewhere. These specific herbs are highly sought after by healers for their potent medicinal properties.
Why do healers visit the Obsidian Peaks?
Healers undertake the perilous journey to harvest these exclusive ingredients needed for powerful cures. The region serves as both a sanctuary for finding rare remedies and a test of endurance for those who seek them.
More in World & Setting
Elsewhere in the Azarinth Healer universe
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