Deep Glacier Exploration
Glacier Exploration
Go Further, Go Higher
This adventurous trip gets you out to the spectacular features of the “Backcountry” of the glacier.
For those looking for a demanding yet rewarding glacier experience.
This trip is appropriate for adventurous travelers seeking a full day of glacial exploration.
Our experienced guides will take you to a remote area of the glacier and use basic rope and anchor systems to safely access some of the most spectacular features of the Matanuska; explore moulins, crevasses, blue pools, and rare ice features.
Your time on the ice includes a mixture of hiking to scenic vistas and using ropes to scramble up non-vertical walls and walk to the edge of large crevasses and moulins.
Consider a Private Advanced Trek. On a private trip, your guide can tailor the day to what your group wants to see and set an appropriate pace for all group members.
Please keep in mind these activities involve height exposure. This trek requires a 2 mile hike through the uneven glacial moraine.
This Tour Requires:
- Minimum age: 12 years
- Able to walk at a brisk pace
- Able to walk over uneven terrain
*Our Advanced Trek fee does not include the Glacier Park Access Fee, which must be paid upon Check In at the MICA Base. The current fee is $45 per person but is subject to change; we have no control over this access fee.*
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- A full day on the Matanuska Glacier, including 2-3 hours of demanding moraine hiking and 3-4 hours of stunning white ice exploration (total time on moraine vs. white ice depends on group ability and pace). In total, guests can expect to hike approximately 6 miles on this trip.
- Guided exploration of exciting glacial features and stunning views in a remote area of the Matanuska Glacier
- A faster-paced, smaller group than the Ice Fall Trek [1:4]
- A closer look at spectacular glacial features including, crevasses, moulins, deep canyons, blue pools, and (potentially) ice caves
- Hiking access to Matanuska Glacier ice features
- $225 + Glacier Access Fee = $260/person
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For the Advanced Trek we require you to have:
- A backpack with room for gear. If you don’t have one, we have some available for you to use!
- Long Pants
- Hiking boots that come over your ankle. If you don’t own a pair, we have some available for your use!
Our recommendations on clothing and gear:
- Quick dry clothing (not cotton/jeans). Usually a good pair of hiking pants works great. Ski pants and jackets are not necessary
- Rain gear, even if it isn’t raining
- Liner gloves
- Tall synthetic or wool socks
- Extra warm layers
- Snacks and water or packed lunch
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Camera
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- Bear Spray
- Fire Arms
- Alcohol
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Glaciers are dynamic and constantly changing; certain features are not available for the entirety of a summer season.
While this trip is your best chance to see an ice cave, please be prepared that this feature may be unavailable at the time of your trip.
Ability level of all group members. If you are a party of 2, you will likely be paired with others. The best way to ensure your group has the best day suitable for your objectives and abilities is to book a Private Advanced Trek. On a custom trip, your guide can tailor the day to what your group wants to see and set an appropriate pace for all group members.
Need Transportation?
We recommend Planet Earth Adventures for a great package deal. (There is no public transportation to the glacier.)
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Book now and you’ll receive valuable promotional codes for the following:
- Save 35% on the Extreme Zip Adventure, featuring the fastest zipline in Alaska, the G2
Why explore the Matanuska Glacier with us? Our Guides are out on the glacier every day, often on their days off! We know the best features and how to get you there while managing the risks of hiking on a glacier.
Guided adventures on the Matanuska Glacier since 1999. Go with the Pros!
Private Advanced Trek
A full day on the glacier just for your groupThe Advanced Trek just for your group.
This private trip is your day on the glacier with one of our top Guides. For everyone from beginners to more experienced adventurers.
- Hiking Access to Glacier
- 5-7 Hours
- Minimum Age 10 years
- $759 + Glacier Access Fee = $235/person*
- *Based on a group size of 4
Ice Climbing
Learn to climb vertical walls of iceYou can do it.
We’ve been teaching beginners to ice climb since 1999. Our step by step instruction will get you climbing.. and get some awesome photos.
- Hiking Access to Glacier
- 8 Hours
- Minimum Age 12 years
- $249+ Glacier Access Fee = $294/person
Matanuska Glacier Glamping Adventure
Glacier GlampingExperience luxury camping on a glacier.
Fly to our remote glacier camp for this unforgettable experience. Cozy tents, great meals and exploring or climbing adventures.
- Helicopter Access to Glacier
- Overnight
- Minimum Age 14 years (10 for private bookings)
- $500/person*
- *Based on two person occupancy