Matanuska Glacier Hiking
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Matanuska Glacier Hikes

   
Glaciers are responsible for shaping and forming this great land, and Alaska has more than one thousand of these frozen rivers. Since the Matanuska Glacier is so accessible, we help visitors explore this wonderful environment on many different levels. Our guides are chosen for their experience and their desire to work and play in bold environments. A zest for life and a caring attitude make all of us proud to share this unique Alaska experience.
 

ABOUT THE GLACIER AND THE HIKES

Glacier hiking is for virtually everyone! With proper equipment and an experienced guide, explore the hidden treasures of the Matanuska Glacier. Tours depart at 9:30am daily. Special group hiking times are available. The Matanuska Glacier is one of the few Alaskan glaciers accessible by car. It is located 2 hours NE of Anchorage at Mile 102 of the Glenn Highway. With just a short hike, you can be standing on an enormous river of ice, exploring the natural wonders of the majestic glacier.

Glacier hiking is an all weather activity. However, when the weather is bad in and around Anchorage, it is often sunny on the glacier. This is due to a phenomena in which the cold air off the glacier forces the warm valley air upward and into the surrounding peaks causing a weather hole. So come to the sunny Matanuska Glacier for an unforgettable experience.

Matanuska Glacier Hike - 1.5 Hour

Discover glacier hiking and the natural history of the Matanuska Glacier. This trip is designed for family fun and ages 6-86 (more or less). You'll use mountaineering crampons to "walk on water" as you explore the glacier with your guide. A great overview and photo opportunity. No experience necessary.

Length: Approximately 1.5 hours.
We Provide: Mountaineering crampons, helmet and trekking pole.
You Bring: Hiking Boots, a day pack, sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves and rain gear. (We have hiking boots available for you to borrow if needed.) Minimums: Age 6 years and shoe size Children's 13.

 

 

Matanuska Glacier Ice Fall Trek - 3 Hours

Our most popular hike, featuring close-up views of crevasses, seracs and unique ice formations. With the use of crampons, you'll enjoy trekking to a high point on the glacier which overlooks the ice fall as well as getting up close. The glacier is in a constant state of change, and your guide can point out various features as you navigate the intense surface. This is sure to be an unforgettable experience. No experience necessary. Minimum age 8 years.

Length: Approximately 3 hours.
We Provide: Mountaineering crampons, helmet and trekking pole.
You Bring: Hiking Boots, a day pack, sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves and rain gear. (We have hiking boots available for you to borrow if needed.)

 

Matanuska River Jet Boat Tour - Add on

These trips are a great way for the entire family to enjoy the Matanuska River & Glacier Conditions permitting, the trip includes a short excursion and photo opportunity on the ice. You'll board one of our specially built jet boats for an exhilirating ride up and down this mighty river. Piloted by our Coast Guard Licensed Captain, you'll experience the Class III rapids from the comfort of our boat. This tour is offered as an add-on to our 3 hour Ice Fall Trek.

Length: Approximately 1.5 hour.
Minimum Age: 6 years.

 
TOUR PRICES:

The Ice Fall Trek  $199

Prices subject to change without notice. Please inquire at time of booking. Glacier Park entry fee is extra. Prices are per person, from Anchorage.

Ice Fall Trek & Jet Boat Package $265

Our 11:30 Ice Fall Trek and then our 4:30 Jet Boat Tour for a complete glacier and river experience...at a discount price.

 

 
  PLANNING YOUR VISIT
 
 

What to bring:
Hiking boots, a day pack, sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves and rain gear.
(We have some boots available for loan.)
For longer trips and ice climbing also bring some fleece clothing, water bottle, snacks and lunch.


About boots:
Hiking boots that come up over the ankle are perfect for our treks and hikes. Our crampons can fit sizes from children's size 13 through adult size Men's 14. We have some boots available for complimentary loan.

 

 
 

 

"I've seen several glaciers from trains, buses and boats; but nothing compares to actually standing on one!"

 

 

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