Paddle four miles among glacier-blue bergy bits at Spencer Lake, then ride the Alaska Railroad through the dramatic Grandview and Upper Placer River Gorge. This full-day combined kayak-and-train tour blends up-close glacial geology with scenic rail corridors.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light cuts across Spencer Lake and the glacier face—an hour of quiet punctuated by the soft groan of ice and the patter of paddles. You launch from a shoreline of cobbles, edging between blue-tinted bergy bits while the Spencer Glacier looms, its face scored by vertical fissures that reflect a cold, clean light.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–11 hours
Fitness Level
Good aerobic base for full-day activity; able to paddle sustained distances and handle short moraine hikes.
Wildlife
History
The Alaska Railroad opened access to coastal glaciers and mining corridors in the early 20th century; rail whistle stops like Spencer were established to move people and supplies into glacial valleys.
Conservation
This region sits within the Chugach landscape—stay on guided routes, pack out trash, and avoid close approaches to wildlife and calving ice to reduce disturbance and safety risks.
Reserve your spot on the Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Reserve Early for Train Seats
The tour uses the Coastal Classic/Glacier Discovery trains—book early and confirm meet-up details to secure on-board pickup in Girdwood or Anchorage.
Mind the Weight Limit
Kayak placement is limited to participants under about 240 lbs; inform the operator ahead to arrange a raft option if needed.
Layer for Rapid Temperature Changes
Expect cold air near the glacier and warmer conditions on the train—bring a warm midlayer and a waterproof shell.
Protect Eyes on Bright Ice Days
Polarized sunglasses reduce glare off ice and water and improve depth perception near bergy bits.
Waterproof/breathable shell
Keeps wind and spray off during the paddle and on open lake stretches.
summer
Warm midlayer (fleece or synthetic)
Useful immediately after paddling when wind chill and dampness make you cold.
spring
Neoprene booties or waterproof shoes
Protect feet during launches, shoreline walks, and on cold rocks at the moraine.
summer
Polarized sunglasses with retention strap
Reduces glare off ice and water and helps with visual contrast around bergs.
summer