Explore Alaska's Matanuska Glacier on a Summer Tour
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape for walking on uneven ice and hiking short glacier routes.
Overview
Discover Alaska’s largest road-accessible glacier on a private 8-hour tour. Walk on vibrant blue ice, enjoy mountain views, and relax with a scenic lunch on the Matanuska Glacier Summer Tour!
Matanuska Glacier Summer Tour
Starting at $345 Per Person • Ages 8+ • 8 Hours • Explore a bucket-list worthy glacier!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking 8-hour adventure to Alaska's Matanuska Glacier, the largest accessible glacier by road. Experience stunning mountain views, explore the majestic blue ice on foot, and enjoy a delicious lunch with panoramic scenery. With expert guides and personalized tours, this is a unique opportunity for unforgettable memories.
Once-in-a-lifetime bucket list opportunity to explore glacial ice!
Duration
8 Hours
Departure Time:
- Tours generally depart between 7:30 - 8:00 am and return between 4:00-5:00 pm
- Hotel pick-up is available at Anchorage hotel locations only and NOT available for private residences (ie Airbnb or VRBO) or at Alyeska Resort. If staying at one of these locations, our office will reach out to confirm pick up location.
- Your expert guide will contact you between 7:00 AM – 7:15 AM with your exact pick-up time
Rates
Starting at $345 per person Ages 8+
About
The Matanuska Glacier is one of Alaska’s premier destinations. At 27 miles long and 4 miles wide, it is Alaska’s largest glacier accessible by road. Marvel at the ice that formed thousands of years ago high in the Chugach Mountains. It also boasts one of the most accessible areas to walk on of any glaciers in Alaska. Each day is unique due to the dynamic nature of the glacier.
Your day will start with a magnificent scenic drive along the Glenn Highway with stunning mountain vistas and plenty of time for photo stops. Next, we will drive to the toe of the glacier to don our ice cleats and helmets and begin exploring the glacier on foot. We generally spend two hours and walk a total of three miles on the ice. After exploring the glacier we will have lunch at a local eatery with amazing views of the glacier and surrounding scenery. Each tour will be customized to suit your group’s interests. This is a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list opportunity to explore glacial ice!
What's Included
- Explore Alaska’s largest glacier accessible by road.
- Wonderful photo opportunities of the majestic blue glacial ice.
- Services of a professional Alaskan tour guide. Trips are capped at 8 adventurers per guide.
- Transportation in a clean and comfortable tour vehicle
- All glacier equipment
- Lunch at local eatery
- Snacks and water bottle filling station
- Hotel pick-up/ drop-off
Please Note
- Our minimum age to join the tour is 8 years old. For groups with younger individuals, explore our Private Matanuska Glacier option.
- We require 2 guests minimum to operate a tour
- We require that participants wear sturdy, stiff-soled footwear while on this tour
- Gratuities for Guides (10% of tour price per person recommended)
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy hiking boots
The glacier surface can be uneven and slippery, so bring boots with good traction.
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen
Sunlight reflecting off ice can be intense; protecting your eyes and skin is important.
Dress in layers
Alaska’s weather can shift quickly; layering allows you to adjust for comfort.
Stay hydrated
Carry water with you as exertion and high elevation can increase dehydration risks.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Dall sheep
- Golden eagles
History
The Matanuska Glacier has been a vital part of the region's history as a natural highway and cultural landmark for native Alaskan tribes.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to monitor glacial retreat and educate visitors on minimizing impact to preserve the fragile glacial environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Anchorage
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Provides necessary grip and ankle support for walking on ice and rocky terrain.
summer specific
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from intense glare reflecting off the glacier's surface.
summer specific
Layered clothing
Allows you to adjust for comfortable temperature control throughout rapidly changing conditions.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is important during physical activity at higher elevations.