Tours

Winter - Girdwood Matanuska Glacier Hike

The most sought-after tour and boy is it action packed.

1-14 people

Anchorage, Alaska

Winter - Girdwood Matanuska Glacier Hike

About This Experience

Step onto ancient blue ice and explore towering crevasses on the Matanuska Glacier. Guided by experts, marvel at icy caves, stunning scenery, and capture breathtaking photos in this thrilling winter adventure.

Highlights

Breathtaking Scenic Drive: Journey through the stunning Matanuska-Susitna Valley, where snow-covered peaks, frozen rivers, and expansive wilderness await.

Guided Glacier Hike: Lace up your boots and explore the majestic Matanuska Glacier, walking on ancient ice and navigating deep crevasses with an expert guide.

Ice Crampons & Trekking Poles: Gear up with top-quality equipment for safety and stability as you trek across this frozen landscape.

Stunning Blue Ice Formations: Marvel at the natural beauty of the glacier’s brilliant blue ice and intricate ice sculptures created by nature over centuries.

Photography Assistance: Capture every awe-inspiring moment with the help of your guide, who will ensure you get the perfect shot of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Glacier Insights: Learn about the fascinating history and formation of the Matanuska Glacier, as well as its impact on Alaska’s stunning landscape.

What's Included

Round-trip transportation from Anchorage to Matanuska Glacier in a comfortable, heated/air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance fee to the Matanuska Glacier

Certified glacier guide with in-depth knowledge of Matanuska Glacier

All necessary glacier hiking gear (crampons, helmet, trekking poles)

Guided glacier hike featuring stunning ice formations, ice caves, and glacial landscapes

Scenic stops along the Matanuska-Susitna Valley for photo opportunities

Professional tour photos captured by your guide

Not Included

Round-trip ticket on the Girdwood Express (Please book at the time of booking your Matanuska Glacier Hike)

Meals

Gratuities for the guide (optional but appreciated)

Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs)

What to Bring

To ensure you’re fully prepared for your Matanuska Glacier adventure, here’s a list of essential items to bring:Warm, Layered Clothing: Temperatures can be cold and windy in winter, so dress in layers for comfort and flexibility. Include moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated mid-layer, and a waterproof, windproof outer layer.Waterproof Jacket & Pants: Snow and ice are common, so make sure you have a waterproof jacket and pants to keep you dry during the hike.

Meeting Point

otDeparture: 7:00 AM from Hotel Alyeska via the Girdwood Express.

Itinerary

1. 7:00 AM – Depart Girdwood via the Girdwood Express to Anchorage (customer must book separately)

2. 8:30 AM – Depart Anchorage from the Downtown Visitors Center

3. 10:30 AM – Arrive at Matanuska Glacier (restroom break and gear fitting)

4. 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM – Guided Glacier Hike (includes safety briefing, exploration of crevasses, blue ice formations, and photography stops)

5. 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Restroom break

6. 2:35 PM – Depart Matanuska Glacier for Anchorage and have lunch on the van

7. 5:30 PM – Arrive in Anchorage

8. 6:30 PM – Depart Anchorage via the Girdwood Express back to Girdwood (customer must book separately)

9. 7:30 PM – Arrive back in Girdwood

Check-in Details

Girdwood Express Departure: Departure Location: Hotel Alyeska Shuttle Stop Departure Time: 7:00 AM (Please arrive 10-15 minutes before departure to ensure timely boarding) Duration: Approximately 1 hour drive from Girdwood to Anchorage. Upon arrival in Anchorage, you’ll have 30 minutes to prepare before the Matanuska Glacier tour begins. This time will allow you to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and get ready for the adventure ahead. Arrival in Anchorage: You will arrive at 8:00 AM in Anchorage, giving you 30 minutes before the Matanuska Glacier tour departs at 8:30 AM. Your tour guide will meet you at the pickup point (exact location confirmed upon booking). Make sure to use this brief stop to get comfortable, use restrooms, and enjoy a light snack if needed, as we’ll be heading straight to the Matanuska Glacier for the unforgettable hike!

Good to Know

Age requirement: 5+ years

No Wheelchair or strollers

About the Operator

Alaska’s Finest Tours and Adventures Anchorage, Alaska

Operated by Alaska’s Finest Tours and Adventures

Duration: 10

Group size: 1-14

Location: Anchorage, Alaska

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