Walk from Kennecott to the Root Glacier with an experienced guide and strap on crampons to explore icefalls, crevasses, and meltwater canyons. This half-day, 5–6 mile guided excursion mixes natural history, mining heritage, and safe glacier travel.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the gravel road and the air changes: cold, clean, and edged by the distant rumble of melting ice. The approach from the Kennecott office moves through alder and willow, then opens onto braided streams that dare you to keep moving toward the slick blue horizon. In five or six hours you'll cover roughly 5–6 miles round trip, including a 2-mile interpretive trail to the glacier’s edge and guided travel across the Root Glacier itself.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—comfortable with steady uphill sections, uneven terrain, and several hours of walking.
Wildlife
History
Kennecott is a historic copper-mining settlement from the early 20th century; the surrounding area later became part of Wrangell–St. Elias National Park, protecting both cultural and natural resources.
Conservation
The root glacier is a dynamic, sensitive system — stick to guide routes, pack out waste, and avoid disturbing meltwater channels and fragile vegetation on the moraine.
Reserve your spot on the Half-Day Glacier Hike today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for variable weather
Temperatures change quickly near the ice — bring a waterproof outer layer, warm mid-layer, and avoid shorts.
Sunglasses and sunscreen are musts
Glacier surfaces reflect intense UV even on overcast days — protect eyes and exposed skin.
Wear stiff ankle-support boots
You’ll be fitted for crampons; a firm-sole hiking boot keeps your feet stable on ice and talus.
Hydrate and bring snacks
You’ll be active for 5–6 hours; pack water and compact, energy-dense snacks since lunch isn’t provided.
Waterproof shell jacket & pants
Protects against melt spray, rain, and wind on the approach and glacier surface.
summer
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
Required for crampon fit and to handle rocky trail sections and icy approaches.
summer
Insulated gloves (lightweight)
Protects hands from jagged ice and cold; gloves are required on the glacier.
summer
Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
Shields eyes and skin from intense reflected UV on the ice surface.
summer