Alaska is known for its incredible natural beauty, and a big part of that is the state’s many glaciers. If you’re planning a trip, seeing some of the best glaciers in Alaska is probably high on your list. There are so many ways to experience these giant ice formations, from boat tours to hikes, and even helicopter rides. This guide will help you figure out the top spots to visit and how to make the most of your glacier adventure.
Key Takeaways
- You can find many impressive glaciers in Alaska that are easy to get to.
- Cruises often visit tidewater glaciers, which are pretty amazing to see.
- Some glaciers let you walk right up to them, or even on them, with a guide.
- The best time to visit the glaciers in Alaska is usually from June through September.
- There are different ways to see glaciers, like by boat, on foot, or from the air.
1. College Fjord 26 Glaciers Cruise In Whittier
If you’re looking for an accessible and stunning glacier experience, the 26 Glaciers cruise from Whittier is a fantastic choice. It’s super easy to get to from Anchorage, making it a convenient option for many visitors. Plus, the payoff in terms of scenery is huge, no matter what the weather is like!
This cruise takes you through Prince William Sound to College Fjord and Blackstone Bay. College Fjord got its name way back when a college research team explored the area and named it after their East Coast schools. What’s really cool is that College Fjord has the biggest collection of tidewater glaciers in the world. You’ll see these massive rivers of ice flowing down the mountains right into the water. Keep an eye out for ice calving, where huge chunks of ice break off and crash into the sea – it’s an amazing sight!
On a College Fjord cruise, you might even spot some wildlife. Humpback whales sometimes breach the waters around the fjord, which is an incredible experience. The calm waters make for a smooth ride, and the views are just breathtaking. It’s a day trip that’s hard to forget. The sheer number of glaciers you’ll see is just mind-blowing.
Taking a cruise through College Fjord is like stepping into a different world. The scale of the glaciers is hard to grasp until you’re right there, surrounded by these icy giants. It’s a humbling experience that really makes you appreciate the power and beauty of nature.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect on the cruise:
- Duration: About 5-6 hours.
- Departure Point: Whittier, Alaska.
- Highlights: 26 glaciers, potential wildlife sightings, calm waters.
There are two main types of cruises available. High-speed catamarans cover more ground, letting you see more glaciers, like the impressive Surprise Glacier in Harriman Fjord. Slower boats spend more time at each glacier and often include Blackstone Bay, where you can enjoy the sounds of the ice while having a meal. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
2. Exit Glacier And Harding Icefield In Kenai Fjords National Park
Exit Glacier is super accessible, which is a big win. It’s located just outside Seward, making it a convenient stop for anyone visiting the area. You can actually drive right up to the Exit Glacier area and visitor center, and there’s even free parking. How cool is that? It’s the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park you can drive to, which makes it a popular spot.
One of the best things about Exit Glacier is how easy it is to get close. You can take a short, easy walk on the Edge of the Glacier Trail, and in about 30 minutes, you’re practically at the glacier’s face. It’s not the biggest glacier, but up close, it looks pretty impressive. Plus, it’s a great place to learn about how glaciers move, especially since it’s been receding quite a bit. They even have markers showing how much it has receded over the last 120 years. It’s kind of mind-blowing to see.
The trails around Exit Glacier are well-maintained, with good footing and interpretive signs that explain how plants are coming back after the ice. If you’re into audio tours, there’s one on The Alaska App narrated by the Park Service’s chief interpretive ranger. It’s a cool way to learn more as you walk around.
For those who want a bit more of a challenge, the Harding Icefield Trail is where it’s at. It’s a pretty steep climb, gaining about 3,500 feet in 4 miles, but the views of the glacier are totally worth it. If you’re up for it, you can even do guided hikes on the glacier itself, strapping on crampons to walk on the ice. I’ve heard it’s an amazing experience, though I haven’t tried it myself yet. Maybe next time!
The Harding Icefield Trail is a must-do for serious hikers. It’s challenging, but the panoramic views of the Harding Icefield are incredible. Just be prepared for a strenuous climb and changing weather conditions.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Best For: Hikers looking for a challenging hike with epic views. The Exit Glacier trail is easier and shorter.
- Getting There: Drive to the Exit Glacier area near Seward. Free parking is available, or you can take a shuttle from Seward.
- Best Time to Visit: June through September.
- Activity Level: Easy walk to a challenging 9-mile round trip hike.
- Tour Required? No.
- Accessibility: The Exit Glacier Visitor Center is ADA accessible, including restrooms. There’s also a one-mile ADA accessible trail with a view of the glacier. The Harding Icefield Trail is steep and rocky.
3. Matanuska Glacier Along The Glenn Highway
The Matanuska Glacier is a sight you won’t want to miss if you’re driving the Glenn Highway. It’s pretty easy to get to, about a 2.5-hour drive from Anchorage. This massive glacier is more than four miles wide at its terminus, and the water runoff forms the Matanuska River.
You can see the glacier from various pullouts along the highway, which are great for photos. If you want to get closer, you can drive closer to the edge. Keep in mind that access to the glacier itself is on private land, so you’ll need to join a guided tour to actually walk on it. These tours, like guided glacier tours, can include glacier walks or even ice climbing.
Driving the Glenn Highway is a cool experience in itself. You get a feel for the Alaskans who live out there. There are some nice, smaller lodges where you can stay, offering a different vibe than the big touristy spots. You can easily spend a couple of days exploring the area. It’s a must-stop along the Glenn Highway between Anchorage and Valdez or Wrangell-St Elias National Park.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Best For: Seeing a glacier from the highway or walking on one without needing a helicopter.
- Getting There: About a two-hour drive from Anchorage. You can drive yourself or book a tour with transportation.
- Accessibility: There are ADA pit toilets at the viewpoint. Tours onto the glacier require walking on uneven terrain with spikes.
Taking a tour onto the glacier requires walking on uneven terrain with spikes on your feet.
4. Walk To Byron Glacier In The Portage Valley
Okay, so Byron Glacier is a super accessible option, especially if you’re staying in Anchorage or just driving along the Seward Highway. It’s located in the Portage Valley, which is a really scenic area in itself. What’s cool about Byron Glacier is that you don’t need to be an experienced hiker to get a good view. It’s a pretty mellow walk, making it perfect for families or anyone who wants a less strenuous glacier experience.
The Byron Glacier Trail is an easy, just over 1 km course along a river, leading to the superb and impressive Byron Glacier, featuring crevices and the river itself. The trail itself is mostly flat, gravel-surfaced, and well-maintained, so it’s not too challenging. You’ll be walking alongside a river, which adds to the scenery. The best part is that you can get relatively close to the glacier without needing any special equipment or a guide.
Getting there is pretty straightforward. From the Seward Highway, you just follow the signs to Portage Glacier and the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center. The Byron Glacier Trail is accessible via Portage Lake Loop Road, about 5 miles from the main road. The trailhead is about a mile from the visitor center, so it’s easy to find. There’s a parking lot right at the trailhead, so you don’t have to worry about a long walk just to get to the trail. This easy 2.2-mile out-and-back trail near Whittier, Alaska, the Byron Glacier Trail, typically takes just over an hour to complete.
I remember the first time I hiked to Byron Glacier. It was a cloudy day, but the glacier was still impressive. The sound of the river and the sight of the ice were really calming. It’s a great place to just take a breath and appreciate the natural beauty of Alaska.
5. Take A Helicopter To Knik Glacier
Want to see a glacier up close but short on time? A helicopter tour to Knik Glacier is an awesome option. It’s a pretty unique experience to fly over such a massive river of ice. The sheer scale of the glacier is hard to grasp until you’re hovering above it.
Knik Glacier is about 25 miles long and five miles wide, so it’s a pretty impressive sight. The glacier dramatically flows out of the Chugach Mountains into an iceberg-filled lake, which then feeds the Knik River. You can find Knik Glacier tours departing from the Palmer area, which is about an hour’s drive from Anchorage. Some tours even offer a shuttle service if you don’t have a rental car.
There are a few different ways to experience Knik Glacier by helicopter:
- Flightseeing Tours: These tours give you a bird’s-eye view of the glacier and the surrounding landscape. You’ll get to see the glacier’s blue melt pools and ice formations from above. A scenic helicopter flight is a great way to appreciate the scale of the glacier.
- Glacier Landings: Some tours include a landing on the glacier itself. This allows you to get out and explore the ice up close. You can walk around, take photos, and even see some of the glacier’s features like crevasses and moulins.
- Adventure Tours: For the more adventurous, there are tours that combine helicopter flights with other activities like ice climbing, paddleboarding, or dogsledding. These tours offer a more immersive experience on the glacier.
Taking a helicopter to Knik Glacier is a fantastic way to experience the beauty and grandeur of Alaska’s glaciers. It’s a convenient option from Anchorage, and there are tours available for all levels of adventure.
Consider a Grand Knik Helicopter Tour for a more extensive experience. You can even get a bird’s-eye view of the glacier with a shorter alpine landing tour. It’s definitely a memorable way to see one of Alaska’s most impressive glaciers. Plus, it’s a great way to get off the beaten path since Knik Glacier is best accessed by helicopter.
6. Ruth Glacier Flightseeing And Landing In Denali National Park From Talkeetna
Want to see something truly spectacular? Consider a flightseeing tour from Talkeetna that takes you over the Ruth Glacier. It’s not just a flight; it’s an experience that puts you right in the heart of Denali’s backcountry.
These tours usually start in Talkeetna, a cool little town off the Parks Highway, nestled between the Denali National Park entrance and Anchorage. It’s a convenient spot to kick off your adventure. The best part? Some tours even land on the glacier!
Imagine stepping out onto the Ruth Glacier, surrounded by mile-high peaks and with views of Denali itself. It’s an alpine glacier environment unlike any other. The Great Gorge of the Ruth Glacier boasts granite walls that rise 5,000 feet, making them some of the tallest on Earth. The glacier ice itself drops 2,000 feet in just ten miles. If all the ice melted, the gorge would be deeper than the Grand Canyon.
These tours are usually in smaller planes, and each passenger needs to climb a short ladder to get in and out. If you need help with that, it’s a good idea to contact the tour company, like Heli Alaska, Inc., in advance. They’re usually pretty good at figuring out how to make it work for everyone. The best time to go for a glacier landing is usually June through September. Flightseeing is available year-round, but it depends on the weather. You’ll do a bit of walking around on the glacier, and they usually provide boots for that. It’s an activity that requires a tour, so you can’t just hike there on your own.
I took a flightseeing tour a few years back, and it was incredible. The views were breathtaking, and landing on the glacier was surreal. It’s something I’ll never forget. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Denali, this is it.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Best for: Anyone wanting a unique perspective of Denali National Park.
- Getting there: Tours start in Talkeetna.
- When to go: June-September for glacier landing; flightseeing year-round (weather permitting).
There are a few companies that offer Denali flightseeing tours, including Talkeetna Air Taxi and K2 Aviation. Some tours even offer a guided hiking experience to Moraine Lake, where you’ll land on a floatplane on a glacial lake and hike with the Ruth Glacier as your backdrop. It’s an amazing way to experience a glacier landing and get up close and personal with the landscape. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore an ancient world from above!
7. Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park is a treasure trove of Alaskan wonders. It’s a popular destination because it packs in so many incredible sights, and it’s easily accessible by boat. You’ll find dozens of glaciers, active calving, and abundant wildlife. It’s a place where the sheer scale of nature really hits you.
Most visitors arrive via cruise ship, and many of these ships head straight for the West Arm, drawn to the Margerie Glacier. This glacier is a showstopper, advancing noticeably each day and frequently calving. Seals often lounge on the ice chunks, and from Margerie Glacier, you can also spot the Grand Pacific Glacier. This massive glacier once filled the entire bay, but it has receded significantly, leaving behind a rocky moraine.
Other notable glaciers within the park include Johns Hopkins, Reid, Carroll, and Lamplugh glaciers. But it’s not just about the ice; the land exposed by the receding glaciers is equally impressive. You’ll see sculpted rock formations, eroded hillsides, and expanses of scraped granite. The park teems with wildlife, from bears foraging along the shoreline to mountain goats grazing near sea level, and seals, sea lions, and whales thriving in the water.
If you’re not on a cruise, consider staying at Glacier Bay Lodge, the only lodging inside the park. From there, you can take a catamaran tour for a closer look at the tidewater glaciers, offering a more intimate experience than a large cruise ship. You might even spot whales, bears, and mountain goats. Plus, you can book excursions for kayaking, fishing, or even aerial photography.
Glacier Bay is a place where you can witness the power of nature firsthand. The combination of massive glaciers, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes makes it an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re on a cruise ship or exploring from the lodge, Glacier Bay offers something for everyone.
8. Tracy Arm Fjord Day Trip Cruise From Juneau
Okay, so a day trip to Tracy Arm Fjord from Juneau? It’s a must-do if you’ve got a whole day to kill and want to see some serious Alaskan wilderness. I mean, seriously. It’s about 50 miles south of Juneau, and the fjord itself is almost 30 miles long. Named after some Civil War general, Benjamin Franklin Tracy, it’s now part of the Tongass National Forest.
What’s cool is that you get to see the twin Sawyer Glaciers – North and South. Most tours go to North Sawyer because it’s easier to get to. But both are awesome. You might even see some glacial calving, which is when big chunks of ice fall into the water. Plus, there are icebergs everywhere, some tiny, some huge. It’s a photographer’s dream, honestly. The inlet is super narrow, sometimes only half a mile wide, with cliffs that go up over 3,000 feet. Waterfalls are all over the place, too. It’s just breathtaking scenery everywhere you look.
I’ve heard booking directly with tour companies like True Alaskan can save you some money and maybe even get you better seats than booking through a cruise line. Just something to keep in mind. Also, if you’re into wildlife, keep an eye out for bears and mountain goats on the shore. There’s usually a seal colony hanging out near the glacier, too.
Honestly, the whole experience is pretty dramatic. The boats have to make these tight turns to get to the glaciers. South Sawyer is the bigger one, and if the ice is good, you can get pretty close. Because the glacier goes so deep underwater, the ice is super compressed, which makes for some really blue icebergs. It’s a long day on the water, but totally worth it if you want to see some amazing glaciers and wildlife. A day trip to Tracy Arm is something you won’t forget.
9. Winter Hike To Castner Glacier
Okay, so Castner Glacier is a bit of a trek, but totally worth it if you’re into winter adventures. It’s located along the Glenn Highway, making it accessible, but you’ll definitely want to check road conditions before you head out, especially in the dead of winter.
The main draw here is the ice cave, which is seriously stunning. The blue ice is just unreal, and it feels like you’re in another world.
Now, a few things to keep in mind. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Fairbanks, so plan for a full day trip. You’ll also need to hike about a mile to get to the glacier itself, and that can be slippery and snowy, so wear appropriate footwear. I’d say it’s one of the easily accessible glaciers for first-time visitors to Alaska.
Here’s a few things to keep in mind:
- Check the weather forecast before you go. Seriously, Alaskan weather can change in a heartbeat.
- Dress in layers. You’ll warm up as you hike, but it can get super cold inside the ice cave.
- Bring a headlamp or flashlight. It gets dark inside the cave, obviously.
I highly recommend going with a guide, especially if you want to explore the ice cave. Glaciers can be unpredictable, and a guide will know the safest routes and can provide you with crampons or other necessary gear. Plus, they can tell you all about the glacier’s history and geology, which is pretty cool.
It’s also worth noting that the ice cave isn’t always there. It depends on the amount of snow and ice accumulation each year, so do some research or ask around before you go to make sure it’s accessible. But even if the cave isn’t there, the glacier itself is still a sight to behold. You can also consider a day trip to Tracy Arm from Juneau for another unforgettable experience.
10. Root Glacier Guided Hike In Wrangell-St Elias National Park
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is massive, and one of its gems is the Root Glacier. I’d say a guided hike here is a must-do if you’re up for a bit of an adventure. It’s not just about seeing a glacier; it’s about experiencing it.
Getting to the Root Glacier involves a bit of a journey, which adds to the whole experience. You’ll likely need to head to the small town of McCarthy, which is an adventure in itself. The drive can be long and sometimes on unpaved roads, so plan accordingly. Once you’re in McCarthy, it’s usually a short walk to the glacier’s edge.
The guided hikes are where the real magic happens. Local companies like Kennicott Wilderness Guides provide the gear and expertise to safely explore the glacier. They’ll give you crampons, which are essential for walking on the ice, and share fascinating insights about the glacier’s formation, features, and the surrounding environment.
What can you expect on the glacier?
- Blue Pools: These are pockets of meltwater that form on the surface, and they’re incredibly blue. The color comes from the way the ice absorbs and reflects light. They’re perfect for photos!
- Moulins: These are vertical shafts in the ice where water drains through. They can be quite deep and are a reminder of the glacier’s dynamic nature.
- Crevasses: These are cracks in the ice, and while they can look intimidating, the guides know how to navigate them safely. They add a sense of adventure to the hike.
- Ice Caves: Depending on the conditions, you might even get to explore small ice caves. It’s like stepping into another world!
I remember the first time I stepped onto the Root Glacier. The sheer scale of it was overwhelming, and the crunch of the crampons on the ice was such a unique sound. The guides were super knowledgeable, pointing out different features and explaining how the glacier was changing over time. It’s an experience that really sticks with you.
It’s worth noting that the Root Glacier Trail itself, leading up to the glacier, offers limited scenic views. The real beauty unfolds once you’re actually on the ice. The easy hike to the glacier is suitable for most fitness levels, but the guided hike on the glacier itself requires a bit more stamina and balance.
Here’s a quick rundown of what to consider:
- Book in Advance: Guided hikes can fill up, especially during peak season (June-September).
- Dress in Layers: The temperature on the glacier can be cooler than you expect, so layers are key.
- Wear Sturdy Boots: You’ll need boots that can accommodate crampons.
- Bring Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The sun reflecting off the ice can be intense.
- Listen to Your Guide: They’re the experts, and their instructions are important for your safety.
Overall, a guided hike on the Root Glacier is an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to explore the Root Glacier’s icy landscape, learn about glaciers firsthand, and create some amazing memories. Plus, expert-guided day trips in Wrangell–St. Elias are just awesome!
Imagine walking on a real glacier! The Root Glacier Guided Hike in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park lets you do just that. It’s an amazing way to see Alaska’s wild beauty up close. Ready for an adventure? Check out our website to book your trip!
Ready for Your Glacier Adventure?
So, there you have it. Alaska’s glaciers are truly something special, and seeing them up close is an experience you won’t forget. Whether you’re flying over them, hiking on them, or just watching them from a boat, each glacier has its own unique vibe. It’s not just about the ice, though. It’s about feeling really small next to something so big and old, and just taking in all that natural beauty. Planning a trip like this can seem like a lot, but it’s totally worth it. You’ll make memories that stick with you for a long, long time. So, what are you waiting for? Go see those glaciers!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Alaska to see glaciers?
The best time to see Alaska’s glaciers is usually from June to September. During these months, the weather is nicer, and it’s easier to get to the glaciers for tours and activities. This period offers the most dependable conditions for exploring these icy wonders.
Are Alaska’s glaciers easy to get to?
Many glaciers in Alaska are easy to reach. For example, Exit Glacier near Seward lets you walk right up to it. Matanuska Glacier, close to Anchorage, can be seen from the highway, and you can even take a guided walk on it. Some tours, like the 26 Glaciers Cruise from Whittier, offer a simple way to see many glaciers from a boat.
Can I walk on a glacier in Alaska?
Yes, you can walk on some glaciers in Alaska. Matanuska Glacier offers guided walks and ice climbing. Other places, like Exit Glacier, also have guided hikes where you can put on special gear called crampons and walk on the ice.
Will I see glaciers breaking apart on a boat tour?
Absolutely! Many boat tours, like the ones in College Fjord and Tracy Arm Fjord, get you close enough to see huge chunks of ice break off and fall into the water. This is called ‘calving’ and it’s a really exciting thing to witness.
What’s the most exciting way to see a glacier?
For a truly special experience, consider a helicopter tour to a remote glacier, like Knik Glacier, or a flightseeing trip with a landing in Denali National Park to see Ruth Glacier. These give you amazing views that you can’t get any other way.
Can I visit glaciers in Alaska during the winter?
Yes, some glaciers, like Castner Glacier, are great for winter hikes. Just make sure you are prepared for cold weather and icy conditions, and consider going with a guide for safety.
What safety tips should I know when visiting glaciers?
Safety is very important when visiting glaciers. Always follow the rules and signs in national parks and other areas. If you’re going on a guided tour, listen to your guide’s instructions. For walking on ice, special gear like crampons might be needed.
Are there glaciers in Alaska’s national parks?
Many glaciers are located within Alaska’s beautiful national parks, such as Kenai Fjords National Park (Exit Glacier) and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (Root Glacier). Glacier Bay National Park is also famous for its many glaciers.
