Matanuska Glacier Hike from Anchorage: Walk Ancient Ice

Walk across 27 miles of ancient ice on the Matanuska Glacier

A full-day guided hike on the Matanuska Glacier departing from Anchorage includes a two-hour drive north, a two-hour trek across ancient ice with an expert guide, lunch at a glacier-view lodge, and return transport to downtown hotels. You'll explore ice formations, blue ice, crevasses and meltwater pools while learning the glacier's natural history.

The experience

Your day starts with pickup in downtown Anchorage and a two-hour van ride north through Alaskan wilderness. The guide narrates the drive, pointing out landscape features and answering questions. You can ask for photo stops along the way. Once you arrive at the glacier, you'll meet the expert glacier guides who outfit you with helmets and microspikes before the trek begins.

The hike itself covers roughly two hours across the Matanuska Glacier, a 27-mile river of ancient ice in the Matanuska Valley. You'll walk past blue ice formations, deep crevasses and meltwater pools, learning how the glacier has shaped the landscape over thousands of years. The terrain requires good balance and sturdy knees, and the guides watch the conditions (ice, weather and group pace) to keep everyone safe. All glacier gear is provided. You bring sturdy footwear and the willingness to move carefully across uneven ice.

After the trek, you'll warm up with a hearty lunch at a nearby lodge overlooking the glacier, with snacks and water available throughout the day. The return drive takes another two hours, with drop-off at major downtown Anchorage hotels. The guides rely on tips to continue offering these trips, so cash or card gratuities are welcome at the end of the day.

What’s included

• Round-trip van transport from downtown Anchorage.
• expert glacier guide.
• all glacier gear including helmets and microspikes.
• winter clothing if needed.
• lunch at a glacier-view lodge.
• bottled water and snacks throughout the day.
• all fees and taxes.

Information

Lasts 8h, runs every day at 08:00, from US$ 330 per person, with a live guide in English, in groups of up to 14 and with free cancellation up to 24 h before.

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00Another time? ›

GroupUp to 14

Live guideEnglishOther languages ›

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.4 with pickup ›

Book up to10h before

AgesAdult (10 and older) · Under 10: can't be booked

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Alaskan Sights and Bites

Is this one for you?The hike demands a moderate level of fitness and good balance on uneven ice, so it suits travelers comfortable with a two-hour trek and ready to move carefully across a glacier. The eight-hour day (including two hours of driving each way) works best for those with a full day free in Anchorage and no early morning constraints.

Traveler reviews

4.95★★★★★★★★★★

21 verified traveler reviews

5 ★20

4 ★1

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How difficult is the hike on the Matanuska Glacier?

The glacier trek is moderate and takes roughly two hours, requiring good balance and sturdy knees. The guides adjust the route based on ice conditions and group pace, and all necessary equipment (helmets and microspikes) is provided. Sturdy footwear is essential, and travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.

What's included in the tour from Anchorage?

The tour includes round-trip van transport from downtown Anchorage, all glacier gear (helmets, microspikes), a licensed guide, lunch at a glacier-view lodge, bottled water and snacks throughout the day, and winter clothing if needed. The total time is eight hours, with two hours each for driving and roughly two hours on the ice.

What should I wear and bring for the Matanuska Glacier hike?

Wear sturdy hiking boots or mountaineering boots with good ankle support and grip. Winter clothing is provided if you need it, but dress in layers so you can adjust as you warm up during the hike. Bring a camera, sunscreen and any personal medications. Water and snacks are supplied by the tour.

How long is the drive from Anchorage to the Matanuska Glacier?

The drive north from downtown Anchorage takes approximately two hours each way. Your guide will narrate the journey and share insights about the Alaskan landscape. You can request photo stops along the route.

Is the Matanuska Glacier tour available year-round?

The tour runs both summer and winter, with the itinerary adjusted for seasonal conditions. Winter trips feature different ice formations and lighting, while summer offers longer daylight hours. Check availability for your travel dates when booking.