Question 1

How do I get to the Matanuska Glacier?

Accepted Answer

Drive the spectacular Glenn Highway, a scenic byway through the glacier-sculpted Matanuska Valley, with ample opportunities for pictures. Just look for the blue signs with the letter P.
Our GPS address is 66500 S. Glacier Park Rd. We are right off of Mile 102 on the Glenn Highway.
Give yourself about 2.5 hours if driving from Anchorage. In the summer, beware of construction that may prevent you from arriving on time.
If you plan on taking an Uber or car service out to the glacier, please make sure you arrange a ride back to your initial location.
It is important to arrive 30 min. before your tour so we can get started on time.
Turn off TO Palmer, NOT Wasilla, at mile 34. Onto the Glenn Highway.
What are the road conditions like? Click here for updated road conditions and constructions.
For step-by-step directions with photos, click here.

Question 2

Where can I take photos along the Glenn Highway?

Accepted Answer

There are several Instagram-worthy spots on Glenn Highway. Make a fun day trip to the Matanuska Glacier and stop at one or all of these incredible spots.

Question 3

How do I book a tour or get tour information?

Accepted Answer

Contacting our office is the best and fastest way to book a tour. Call (907) 313-3634 or text (907) 232-9046.

Question 4

Is it necessary to make reservations in advance for glacier tours?

Accepted Answer

Making reservations in advance is advisable, especially during the peak tourist season in Alaska (typically from May to September). Popular tours can fill up quickly.

Question 5

What time are the tours?

Accepted Answer

In the summer and winter, we offer daily tours at 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 2 pm, including holidays.

Question 6

How long are the tours?

Accepted Answer

Tours are around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the group. Distance is around 3 miles round trip.

Question 7

How much does a guided tour of the Matanuska Glacier cost?

Accepted Answer

Tours are $150 per person. Kids 14 & under are $30 per person. *Alaska Residents are $50, US Military $50. Note: To qualify for a Sponsored Friends & Family Discount, participants must be friends and family who are in Alaska specifically to visit the sponsoring resident.

Question 8

Can I book a custom or private tour?

Accepted Answer

Yes, custom and private tours of the Matanuska Glacier are available. Please call us for details.

Question 9

What is an Immersive Tour of the Matanuska Glacier?

Accepted Answer

An immersive tour allows guests to explore their creative side through glacier art or relax and meditate with emotional auditory sensations, all enhanced by your presence on ancient glacier ice. Book an Immersive Tour of the Matanuska Glacier today!

Question 10

Are glacier tours in Alaska suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

Tours of Matanuska Glacier are suitable for all ages and abilities.

Question 11

Can you hike the Matanuska Glacier on your own?

Accepted Answer

NO. Walking on ice is a very different skill for even those with past glacier hiking experiences. Our guides are highly trained and qualified to get you through the dangerous, shapeshifting world of ice.

Going on a guided tour is generally safer and more informative, especially if you're not experienced in glacier travel. Guides provide valuable insights and ensure your safety. They also know where caves and crevasses are for great photos. There are a few glaciers in Alaska accessible without a guided tour. While glaciers such as the Exit Glacier near Seward, is only visible, primarily from a hiking trail up the mountains.

Question 12

Should we tip our guide?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Tipping your guide shows your appreciation. Guides do their best to keep you safe on the ice; they provide accurate and fascinating information about the glacier, making hiking the glacier a memorable and fun experience. Just like in the restaurant industry, a 20% tip off of the price is appropriate and appreciated. Tipping your guide is separate from the booked trip.

Question 13

What types of transportation are used for glacier tours?

Accepted Answer

From the office, a guide will take a short 3-5 minute drive to the face of the glacier. You will put on your protective gear and head off easily for a walking, exploring tour for all ages or abilities.

Question 14

Do glacier tours operate in bad weather conditions?

Accepted Answer

Glacier tours may be canceled or rescheduled in severe weather conditions for safety reasons. It's good to check with the tour operator about their weather policy and possible rescheduling. At Matanuska Glacier, guided tours are facilitated all year, and light snow or sprinkles should not deter anyone from having the unforgettable experience of exploring a glacier.

Question 15

What should I wear on a winter tour of the glacier?

Accepted Answer

It is important to dress warm for your winter tour of the Matanuska Glacier. Bring warm boots/socks, an insulated jacket, snow pants, hats, and gloves. More layers are better to have than not enough. Hand and toe warmers are available for purchase at the gift shop. Temperatures may vary between -30 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Check out our post on what to wear on a winter glacier hike.

Question 16

What should I wear on a summer tour of the glacier?

Accepted Answer

Waterproof hiking shoes are strongly encouraged on a summer tour of the Matanuska Glacier.  Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are also suggested as they can be very bright and actually easy to get a little pink on a nice sunny day. Thin layers are great if you need to put more on if the breeze picks up or take some off when the warm sun is out. Temperatures may vary between 55 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do not wear high-heeled boots for either season.This can be very dangerous for walking conditions on the ice during any season, and your micro-spikes will also not fit properly on your boot.

Question 17

Can I rent specialized equipment like binoculars or cameras for glacier tours?

Accepted Answer

The only gear provided for glacier tours is safety equipment such as crampons for good traction or trekking poles. You should bring sunglasses to protect from sun glare and your cameras or binoculars for viewing. Drones are not permitted as they inevitably rob other visitors of their enjoyment of the natural, peaceful environment.

Question 18

Do I need to bring food and water on a glacier tour, or are they provided?

Accepted Answer

It's advisable to bring snacks and water with you on a glacier tour, especially for more extended tours. Just remember to pack out your trash. Leave no trace on the glacier. Consider visiting one of the great restaurants near the Matanuska Glacier.

Question 19

What is the level of physical fitness required for glacier tours?

Accepted Answer

The level of physical fitness required can vary by tour. Some glacier tours are suitable for beginners, while others may require a moderate to high fitness level. Check with the tour operator for specific fitness requirements. Our tours are available for all ages and abilities. We try our very best to accommodate everyone safely.

Question 20

What's the best way to prepare for a glacier tour in terms of physical fitness and acclimatization?

Accepted Answer

It helps to be reasonably fit. People who regularly walk or hike may find the glacier tour more enjoyable—additionally, staying hydrated and getting enough rest before your tour is essential for a positive experience. Glacier Tours on the Matanuska Glacier are available for all ages and abilities. You'll do fine if you have average to good fitness, have good balance, and can go up several flights of stairs. It's a walk in the park.

Question 21

Are there options for glacier tours that cater to individuals with mobility issues?

Accepted Answer

Matanuska Glacier tours are available to everyone, all ages and abilities.

Question 22

Will we see the ice caves?

Accepted Answer

Ice caves are only accessible in the wintertime. On rare occasions, ice caves can be accessible in the summertime; however, the tours typically will take longer and cost more due to taking up more of a guide's time. Please feel free to call the office to see if something is available.

Question 23

Is the Matanuska Glacier in a National Park?

Accepted Answer

No, we are a private entity, and Cook Inlet Regional owns the area.

Question 24

Will there be wildlife (bear or moose) on the glacier?

Accepted Answer

No. We have lots of wildlife in the surrounding area, but animals will not waste their time and energy walking on the ice due to no food sources on the ice. Animals are occasionally spotted while traveling to and from the glacier from the safety of your vehicle.

Question 25

What should I do if I have a medical emergency during a glacier tour?

Accepted Answer

Our tour guides have emergency procedures in place. Inform your guide immediately if you have a medical emergency; they will coordinate assistance sas needed.

Question 26

Are there any cultural or historical aspects included in glacier tours?

Accepted Answer

Some guides may include information about glaciers' cultural and historical significance to Alaska's indigenous peoples and early explorers. Guides often share fascinating stories. Don't hesitate to ask questions. Your questions help guides understand what visitors are most interested in.

Question 27

Is there an Auto Shop in the area?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a single auto mechanic. At our front desk we'll be happy to help you contact Jared.

Question 28

Can a glacier tour be combined with other Alaskan activities like fishing or whale watching?

Accepted Answer

Some tour operators offer combination packages that allow you to experience multiple activities in Alaska, such as glacier tours, fishing, whale watching, or wildlife viewing. Those tours are, of course, offered in Alaska's southern regions and along the coast. If you are headed inland, en route to Denali National Park or Fairbanks, we suggest visiting Matanuska Glacier. The drive alone is amazing. The visitors leave 5-star reviews all day long.

Question 29

Are there night-time glacier tours to see the Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

Glacier travel can be dangerous at night. However, at Matanuska Glacier tours are provided both in Summer and Winter, during the day. Northern Lights are viewable in the winter, so we encourage visitors to stay in the area for a night or two and hopefully see the Aurora Borealis from there. Our website lists good options for lodging near Matanuska Glacier.

Question 30

Can I go dog sledding on a glacier tour?

Accepted Answer

While some glacier tours offer dog sledding experiences, Matanuska Glacier does not.

Our guided tours are focused on providing exploratory tours the whole family can partake in and enjoy. Dog sledding is best experienced through trail networks and along rivers, while glaciers are best enjoyed at a slower pace. Why visit a glacier if it's zooming past you at a dog's pace? We give our guests ample time to have their minds blown by the beauty and complexity of Matanuska Glacier. These tours provide a unique way to explore the ice and are typically available in winter.

Visitors may want to check with Glacier Tours in Seward, Alaska, for dog sledding.

Year-round Guided
Matanuska Glacier Tours
Only 2 Hours from Anchorage, Alaska

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