If you’re dreaming of standing on a glacier, feeling the cool crunch of ice beneath your crampons, and soaking in some of the most breathtaking scenery Alaska has to offer, the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure is worth considering. Offered by Kenai Backcountry Adventures, this full-day tour combines adventure, education, and scenery into a package that appeals to active travelers eager for a hands-on experience.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the professional guides—their local knowledge and friendly approach make the experience both safe and engaging. Second, the stunning visuals of icy waterfalls and glacier crevasses create a truly memorable backdrop.
One thing to keep in mind is that this adventure demands a good to high level of fitness, given the terrain and duration. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable walking on steep, uneven surfaces for an extended period.
This is not a tour for everyone—children under 10 and those with mobility or fitness challenges may find it too strenuous. But for those up for a challenge, craving authentic wild Alaska scenery, and eager to learn about glaciers firsthand, this adventure offers incredible value and a genuine experience.
Key Points
- Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable, friendly professional glacier guides.
- All Equipment Included: Helmets, crampons, harnesses, trekking poles, and backpacks are provided for safety and convenience.
- Flexibility: Hotel pick-up, drop-off, and transportation from Seward to Kenai Fjords NP are all included.
- Lunch on the Glacier: Enjoy a complimentary deli lunch amid stunning icy vistas.
- Duration & Timing: An 8-hour tour with options for different start times, making it flexible for your travel schedule.
- Authentic Nature: Expect to see glacial waterfalls, ice caves, and expansive glaciated landscapes while learning about glaciology and local history.
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Setting the Scene: What You Can Expect
The tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup or a round-trip transfer from Seward, depending on your location. Once at the trailhead in Kenai Fjords National Park, you’ll meet your guides and gear up with equipment that ensures your safety and comfort. The gear list—helmets, crampons, harnesses, trekking poles—is included, giving you peace of mind about the technical aspects of glacier hiking. These guides are pros, not just in navigating icy terrain but also in sharing fascinating stories, local history, and glaciology facts that turn a walk into a learning experience.
Throughout the day, you’ll gradually ascend toward the glacier, with plenty of chances to admire the landscape. The early part of the hike introduces you to the boreal forests—where earthy alder and moss-covered ground give off a quintessential Alaskan woodland vibe. As you approach Exit Glacier’s edge, the scenery shifts dramatically to towering ice formations, waterfalls, and deep crevasses.
You can also read our reviews of more hiking tours in Seward
The Glacier Experience
Once on the glacier, the real magic begins. You’ll get to walk on ice that’s centuries old, with crampons gripping the icy surface. The guides are attentive, ensuring everyone stays safe while allowing you to fully enjoy the experience. Expect to see glacial features like cervasses (ice caves), crevassed ice fields, and perhaps even blue ice formations that look like frozen sculptures.
A highlight for many is the lunch on the glacier—a simple but memorable moment where you can take a break, eat your deli turkey wrap, and soak in the views. The crisp mountain air, the sight of icy waterfalls cascading down the glacier’s face, and the chance to stand atop a genuine glacier combine to create a sense of awe that’s hard to match.
Learning and Storytelling
One of the tour’s greatest strengths is the storytelling. Your guides don’t just navigate the terrain—they share insights about glaciology, explaining how glaciers form and change, and revealing tales about the history of the Harding Icefield. The reviews praise guides like Emily and Rebecca for their local expertise and engaging attitude, making the long day feel much shorter.
The Return and Reflection
After several hours on the ice, you’ll descend back to the trailhead, with plenty of time to reflect on your adventure. The shuttle service, included in the tour, makes the entire day seamless. Plus, the small group size helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value and Cost
At $320 per person, this tour might seem a bit steep at first glance. However, considering all included gear, transportation, lunch, and expert guidance, it offers good value for an immersive, hands-on glacier experience. It’s a full-day commitment, but the memories—standing on ancient ice, witnessing stunning waterfalls, and learning about glaciers firsthand—are priceless.
Authenticity and Personal Experiences
What travelers seem to love most are the authenticity and safety of the experience. Multiple reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides made the adventure both fun and informative. One reviewer mentioned, “It was tough but worth it. So beautiful. The guides, Emily and Rebecca, were amazing.” That blend of challenge and reward is what makes this trip special.
Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This adventure’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking on steep or uneven terrain. It’s perfect for those interested in a true outdoor excursion that combines adventure with education. Families with children over 10 who are physically capable will find it an exciting day, but it’s not recommended for those with low fitness levels or younger children.
This Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure is a genuine way to experience Alaska’s wild side. It’s a chance to walk on a real glacier, learn about glaciology from passionate guides, and enjoy some of the most stunning scenery the area has to offer. It’s best for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those craving an active, authentic, and memorable experience.
If you’re fit enough to handle a demanding walk and eager to see glaciers up close, this tour offers excellent value with all the gear, transportation, and expert guidance included. The small group size and personal stories create an intimate atmosphere, making it easier to connect with nature and learn from experienced locals.
While the price might be on the higher side for some, the memories you’ll create—standing on centuries-old ice, marveling at icy waterfalls, and enjoying a picnic on the glacier—are truly priceless. It’s an adventure that will deepen your understanding of Alaska’s glacial landscape and give you stories to tell for years.
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes courtesy round-trip ground transportation from Seward to Kenai Fjords National Park, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.
How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the hike, scenery, and lunch.
What should I wear for the tour?
While specific clothing isn’t listed, expect to be outdoors for several hours. Dress in layers, including waterproof or windproof outerwear, comfortable hiking clothes, and sturdy footwear.
Are meals included?
Yes, a deli lunch—including a turkey wrap, granola bar, and a piece of fruit—is provided on the glacier.
Can children participate?
Children under 10 years old are not suitable for this experience, mainly due to the physical demands of the hike.
Is this tour suitable for people with low fitness levels?
No, it requires a good-to-high level of fitness because of walking on steep and uneven terrain for long periods.
What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect to see stunning glacial waterfalls, ice caves, crevasses, and expansive glaciated landscapes, all with the backdrop of the Harding Icefield.
Do I need prior experience with glacier hiking?
No, guides provide all necessary equipment and instruction. However, a good fitness level is essential.
What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $320 per person, which includes gear, transportation, lunch, and guiding services.
This tour offers a rare chance to directly engage with Alaska’s glacier environment, blending adventure, education, and incredible scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler ready for a challenge, it rewards those eager for a true outdoor experience with plenty of “wow” moments.
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