Alaska Glacier Adventures with Exposure Alaska in Anchorage - Anchorage

Alaska Glacier Adventures with Exposure Alaska in Anchorage

Anchoragechallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

3–5 days

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical condition, able to handle multi-day trekking, climbing, and rafting with moderate to intense exertion.

Overview

Exposure Alaska offers unmatched multi-day glacier adventures departing from Anchorage. Join skilled guides for ice climbing, rafting, and base camp luxury in the wild heart of Alaska’s Matanuska region.

Details

Anchored in Anchorage, Exposure Alaska stands out as a top-tier outfitter delivering immersive Alaskan backcountry adventures that go beyond the usual sightseeing tours. Their signature offerings — including the Double Exposure, Matanuska Getaway, and Maximum Exposure trips — blend glacier ice climbing, canyoneering, white water rafting, and remote camping with expert guidance and thoughtful logistical support.

The centerpiece of their lineup is the Matanuska Getaway, a multi-day foray into the rugged beauty of the Matanuska Glacier and surrounding wilderness. Visitors are transported from Anchorage’s urban edge to a wild zone of ice-carved peaks, jagged moraine fields, and expansive blue ice. The glacier itself is one of Alaska’s largest accessible glaciers, stretching over 27 miles, with features that invite climbers and trekkers alike to engage with its crevassed expanse.

Exposure Alaska’s approach sets them apart: they weave skill-building with safety and comfort, accommodating various fitness and experience levels through tailored itineraries. Days are packed with adrenaline-charged activities such as navigating glacier ice walls and descending canyons, while evenings are spent at thoughtfully selected base camps like Alpenglow Lodge, where hearty Alaskan fare like fresh salmon and handmade breads revive and ground the adventurers.

Beyond the glacier, their trips include white water rafting and zip lining near scenic Reed Lakes, blending thrills with tranquil moments by pristine lakeside and forest. The guides, highly praised for professionalism and local expertise, prioritize guest safety and enrichment, often sharing insider tips about the landscape’s natural history and wildlife.

Experience with Exposure Alaska offers a distinctly authentic engagement with Alaska’s northern wilderness — far from tourist crowds, with genuine wilderness immersion and personalized care that make this outfitter a standout in Alaska’s adventure scene.

Adventure Tips

Prepare for Variable Glacier Conditions

Glacier surfaces can be icy and uneven. Wear crampons and bring layered clothing to adapt to shifting weather and temperatures.

Hydration and Nutrition are Key

High-energy days require good hydration and fueling; take advantage of the fresh meals Exposure Alaska provides but bring snacks for activity peaks.

Skill Levels Vary—Communicate Your Comfort

Exposure Alaska can tailor each trip based on your skill and fitness — be upfront with your guides to get the most from the experience.

Book Early to Secure Glacier Camping

Overnight stays on the glacier are a rare and popular experience — secure your spot well ahead to guarantee availability.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Reed Lakes zip line course near the Matanuska Glacier
  • Remote glacier ice cave formations accessible on foot

Wildlife

  • Dall sheep grazing on alpine slopes
  • Bald eagles spotted near river valleys

History

The Matanuska Glacier area has been a travel corridor for indigenous communities and is a key feature of the Chugach Mountain range's geologic evolution.

Conservation

Exposure Alaska emphasizes minimizing environmental impact by practicing Leave No Trace principles and supporting sustainable wilderness use in the fragile glacier ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

golden hour
early morning
sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • Camp sites at Alpenglow Lodge overlooking mountain peaks
  • Edges of the Matanuska Glacier ice formations
  • Reed Lakes overlook trails

What to Photograph

glacier ice walls
wild Alaskan river rapids
campfire scenes at base camp

Recommended Gear

Crampons

Essential

Required for traction on glacier ice during climbing and trekking segments.

summer specific

Waterproof Shell Jacket

Essential

Keeps you dry and protected from rain or snow during unpredictable alpine weather.

spring specific

Insulated Gloves

Essential

Protects hands from cold and wind during glacier activities and evening temps.

fall specific

Hydration System

Essential

Maintains hydration during exertion across varied terrain and activity types.

Reviews