Seward: Exit Glacier Ice Hike with Pickup & Lunch

Summary

Step onto ancient blue ice near Seward and feel Alaska’s wild heart

You’ll start your day in Seward with a local guide leading you through mossy forests up to Exit Glacier’s shimmering blue ice. Feel the crunch under your boots, learn stories of Alutiiq history, and share a simple lunch surrounded by wild silence. It’s more than a hike — it’s a memory that lingers long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

Li, our glacier guide, handed me a helmet and grinned, “You’ll want this for the ice.” I was still fumbling with my crampons when she showed us how to walk like penguins — which got a laugh out of everyone. The air smelled sharp, almost metallic, and there was this hum from the river below that made it all feel alive. We’d started early from Seward (the van pickup was right on time), but by the time we reached the trailhead I was wide awake — nerves and excitement both kicking in.

The first stretch through the alder forest felt soft underfoot, damp moss everywhere. Li pointed out where the Native Alutiiq used to gather berries along these paths — I hadn’t realized how much history sits in these woods. When we finally stepped onto Exit Glacier itself, it hit me: this wasn’t just snow. The ice had these deep blue cracks that looked bottomless if you stared too long. Sunlight bounced off everything; I kept squinting even behind sunglasses. At one point I tried to say “glacier” in Alutiiq — Li laughed and said she’d heard worse attempts.

Lunch was simple — turkey wrap, apple, granola bar — but eating it sitting on a rock overlooking the Harding Icefield made it taste like something special. My hands were cold but I didn’t care; there was this quiet except for wind and someone’s distant voice echoing off the ice. Honestly, I still think about that view sometimes when city noise gets too loud. The hike back felt different somehow — slower maybe? Or maybe I just didn’t want to leave yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure

• Pick up in Seward or meet at office
• Transport to National Park start point
• Explore glaciers and Harding Icefield
• Observe wildlife and boreal forests
• Return transport to Seward

Top questions

How long is the Exit Glacier ice hiking tour from Seward?

The tour lasts around eight hours including transportation from Seward.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip from Seward?

Yes, courtesy hotel pickup and drop-off in Seward are included.

What kind of lunch is provided on the Exit Glacier hike?

A deli lunch with turkey wrap, granola bar, and fruit is included.

Do I need special equipment for glacier hiking?

No, all necessary glacier hiking equipment is provided by the guides.

Is this tour suitable for kids or families?

Minors must be accompanied by an adult; participants should be fit enough for strenuous hiking.

Where does the tour start if I have my own car?

You can meet at the operator’s office in Seward if you have your own transportation.

Are public transportation options available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options near Seward.

What should I wear for glacier hiking near Seward?

Wear warm layers suitable for physical activity; equipment like crampons and helmets are provided.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup from Seward or meeting at their local office if you’re driving yourself. All glacier hiking gear—crampons, helmet, harness, backpack—comes ready for you. A professional glacier guide leads every step, plus you get a simple deli lunch before heading back to town together.