Step onto the majestic Matanuska Glacier for an unforgettable guided adventure through a frozen landscape of deep-blue ice, winding crevasses, and towering formations. Led by experienced glacier guides, you’ll safely explore this ever-changing river of ice and witness the glacier’s incredible textures and colors up close. Along the way, you’ll take in sweeping views of Alaska’s snow-covered peaks and, when available, explore naturally formed ice caves. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the thrill of winter with the awe of walking on one of Alaska’s most accessible and spectacular glaciers.
Highlights
Snowmobile-drawn Sleigh Ride (when conditions are suitable)
Walk on the glacier
Explore crevasses
Climb in caves and depressions (when available)
Tour defined paths around enormous chunks of ice
Climb on designated areas of the glacier
Pause for photos and video
Enjoy narration from your knowledgeable guide
All fees to access the glacier
Equipment such as boot and safety gear
Knowledgeable guide
*For groups of 8 or more, an automatic gratuity of $10 per person will be added to your total.
When should we arrive for our booked glacier tour?
Arrive 1 hour prior to your tour time. This will allow you to complete waivers, pay for your tour if needed, use the restroom, etc.
What should we wear?
Winter Glacier Tour: It is important to dress warm for your winter tour of Matanuska Glacier. Bring warm boots/socks, an insulated jacket, snow pants, hats, scarf or neck gator, and gloves. More layers are better than less. Hand and toe warmers are available for purchase at the gift shop. Temperatures may vary between -30°F to 35°F ( -34°C to 2°C ). Read our post on what to wear on a winter glacier hike for more insight.
Summer Glacier Tour: Waterproof hiking shoes are strongly encouraged on a summer tour of Alaska’s Matanuska Glacier. Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are also suggested as conditions can be very bright. Thin layers and a jacket or hoodie are great if the breeze picks up, or take some off when the warm sun is out. Temperatures may vary between 55°F to 85°F ( 13°C to 29°C ).
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.
How do I get to Matanuska Glacier? ( Local and Anchorage Transport )
Click here to get directions from your location using Google Maps. For step-by-step instructions, including signs and photos, visit our Directions page. And if you want timely road conditions and closures, visit Alaska 511.
Nearby Transport: If for some reason you are unable or unwilling to drive the short section of Glacier Park Rd from Glenn Highway to our office, please call us at (907) 745-2534 to request transport. This service (from the top of the hill to our office) is provided FOR A FEE. In almost all cases, guests drive the gravel road all the way to our office.
Anchorage Transport: Please call us at (907) 745-2534 to discuss or arrange transportation from Anchorage to Matanuska Glacier.
Is it necessary to make reservations in advance for glacier tours?
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.
What time are the tours?
In the summer and winter, we offer daily tours at 10AM, 11AM, 1PM, and 2PM, including holidays. However, tour times are subject to change depending on weather or other conditions.
How long are the tours?
Tours are around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the group. Distance is around 3 miles round trip depending on conditions. Remember, glaciers are constantly changing.
Can I book a custom or private tour?
Yes, custom and private tours of the Matanuska Glacier are available. Please call us for details at (907) 745-2534.
Are glacier tours in Alaska suitable for children?
Tours of Matanuska Glacier are suitable for all ages and abilities.
Can you hike the Matanuska Glacier on your own?
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.
Should we tip our guide?
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.
What types of transportation are used for glacier tours?
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. When conditions are right, a snowmobile-drawn sleigh ride will transport guests from the glacier parking lot to the face of the glacier.
Do glacier tours operate in bad weather conditions?
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.
Additional FAQs
For a lot more information, including what to wear, visit our dedicated FAQ page.
66500 S Glacier Park Rd
