Private Matanuska Glacier Tour Near Anchorage, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness capable of walking on uneven icy terrain for several hours.
Overview
Explore Alaska’s largest accessible glacier on a private small group tour with expert guides and stunning views. Discover icy landscapes, enjoy a scenic drive, and savor lunch with glacier vistas.
Private Matanuska Glacier Tour: Small Group
Groups of 1-6 People • Starting at $1350 per group + $175 pp • Ages 5+ • 8 Hours
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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 glacier on foot with expert guidance, and enjoy a delicious lunch with panoramic scenery. This unique opportunity promises unforgettable memories and incredible photo moments amidst ancient ice.
Once-in-a-lifetime bucket list opportunity to explore glacial ice with your group!
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
Tour Rate starting at $1350 per group + $175 per person Small Group Tour is designed for groups of up to 6 people. If your group is larger than 6 people, please book the Large Group tour.
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 for just your group!
- Private transportation in a clean and comfortable tour vehicle
- All glacier equipment
- Lunch at local eatery
- Snacks and bottled water
- Hotel pick-up/ drop-off
Please Note
- Our minimum age to join the tour is 5 years old.
- 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 is NOT included in tour cost and is appreciated at the conclusion of the tour. 10% of tour price per person recommended.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy hiking boots
The glacier surface can be slippery and uneven; good footwear ensures safety and comfort.
Bring sun protection
Glacial ice reflects UV rays strongly—use sunscreen and sunglasses even on cloudy days.
Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the warm summer months.
Listen to your guide
Follow all safety instructions carefully, especially when walking on the ice or near crevasses.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mountain goats frequently seen on nearby ridges
- Dall sheep grazing in alpine areas close to the glacier
History
The Matanuska Glacier was formed during the last Ice Age and has been a key natural feature for indigenous peoples and settlers in the region.
Conservation
Greatland Adventures practices low-impact tourism to protect the fragile glacier environment and supports local conservation efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Anchorage
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Protects feet from wet and slippery ice surfaces.
Layered clothing
Allows adjustment for varying temperatures on the glacier and during the drive.
Sunglasses with UV protection
Reduces glare from reflective ice and sunlight.
summer specific
Insulated gloves
Keeps hands warm during cooler seasons and windy glacier conditions.
fall specific