Embark on a guided glacier hike exploring Matanuska's spectacular ice formations. Perfect for adventure seekers ready to step onto Alaska's giant glacier any season of the year.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good physical conditioning and be comfortable hiking on icy, uneven terrain for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
The Matanuska Glacier has been a key feature of Alaska’s landscape, historically traversed by early exploration teams and Native Alaskans.
Conservation
Alaska’s Finest Tours emphasizes minimal impact practices to protect the glacier’s fragile environment for future generations.
Alaska’s Finest Tours and Adventures
Embark on a guided glacier hike exploring Matanuska's spectacular ice formations. Perfect for adventure seekers ready to step onto Alaska's giant glacier any season of the year.
Alaska’s Finest Tours and Adventures operates out of Anchorage with departures from Girdwood and Anchorage, offering guided day trips to iconic Alaskan landscapes and wildlife destinations. The company specializes in seasonal experiences — including summer and winter city tours to Anchorage, full‑day glacier hikes at Matanuska Glacier, Portage Glacier cruises, and wildlife-focused visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Each itinerary highlights local landmarks such as the Ulu Factory, Earthquake Park, Turnagain Arm vistas, and the Alyeska Tram.
Guides lead small-group departures designed for safety, education, and immersive outdoor experiences. Trip options include accessible wildlife viewing, glacier trekking with expert instruction, scenic cruises across Portage Lake, and guided photography opportunities at sunset over the Matanuska Glacier. The operator runs distinct summer and winter editions of several tours to match seasonal conditions and to maximize visitor access to natural attractions.
Bookings are available for clearly described trips including the Girdwood Matanuska Glacier Hike, Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Tour, Wildlife Express, Anchorage All Around City Tours, and specialized Sunset Glacier Hikes. The business works within local regulations and partners with established conservation and interpretive sites such as the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Travelers can expect professionally guided excursions from a company based in Anchorage that focuses on glacier experiences, wildlife encounters, and scenic Turnagain Arm routes. Information provided to guests details departure points, seasonal variations, and experience levels so visitors can select the right tour.
Reservations include clear itineraries, safety briefs, equipment notes, and locally sourced interpretation from certified guides and logistics.
Base Location
Anchorage, AK
Operating from Anchorage and Girdwood.
Tours Offered
11
Seasonal glacier and wildlife tours.
Seasons
Summer & Winter
Distinct itineraries for each season.
Wildlife Visits
Alaska Wildlife Center
Guided visits to conservation center.
Select tours from Anchorage and Girdwood — glacier hikes, wildlife experiences, and scenic cruises await. Check availability and choose the right seasonal tour.
Wear microspikes or crampons
Essential for traction on slippery ice surfaces to prevent falls.
Pack layered clothing
Alaska weather can change quickly; layering helps regulate body temperature.
Bring sturdy hiking boots
Support and protection are critical when walking on uneven glacier terrain.
Listen closely to your guide
Guides provide crucial safety information about crevasses and unstable ice.
Waterproof hiking boots
Protects feet while providing grip and support on wet and icy glacier surfaces.
Insulated layers
Keeps you warm during cooler fall temperatures typical around the glacier.
fall
Water-resistant outer shell
Useful to stay dry from meltwater and sudden rain showers during summer hikes.
summer
Gloves and hat
Critical for warmth and protection against freezing winter glacier conditions.
winter