Private Ice Climbing

Explore the Matanuska Glacier with MICA Guides

Starting price per tour:

$1,116.00

The price is for your private group of up to 4 climbers

*additional Glacier Access fee applies.

Private Ice Climbing in Alaska’s Premier Glacier Playground

Step onto the glacier with a guide dedicated entirely to your group and discover what it feels like to climb Alaska’s living ice. From your very first swing to your final climb, every moment is tailored to you on a private ice climbing adventure. Hear your tools bite into crystal-clear ice, feel the rope tighten as you rise, and pause to take in sweeping glacier views few ever earn.

This is the kind of experience that stays with you…

                                   You’ll push past comfort zones.

                                                              Try something completely new.

                                                                          Surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.

Whether it’s your first time on ice or your next big challenge, your private guide will shape the day around your goals—moving slower to build confidence, or stepping it up to test your limits.

From moderate slopes to towering ice walls, every climb becomes a shared victory. Laugh together, encourage each other, and walk away with photos, stories, and memories you’ll be talking about for years. This isn’t just ice climbing—it’s a moment where adventure becomes personal. 

All trip times are approximate and include travel time to and from the glacier. You’ll need lunch for this adventure!

Tour Details: 

  • Minimum age: 10 years old
  • This tour is priced per group.  Start the booking process on the calendar to check rates for the number of people in your group.
  • Push deeper into the glacier with a private guide and a fully tailored ice climbing experience! 

*Our Ice Climbing fee does not include the Glacier Park Access Fee, which must be paid upon Check In at the MICA Base. For details see Glacier Access.

Why explore the Matanuska Glacier with MICA Guides? Since 1999, our guides have been leading unforgettable glacier adventures, ensuring you see the best features while safely navigating this dynamic, living ice landscape.

A full day on the Matanuska Glacier. This includes a demanding 2 mile one-way hike to the best climbing terrain, and 3-4 hours of ice climbing in which you can expect 3-4 climbs per person depending on group ability and pace. Your time climbing vs. moraine hiking depends on group ability and pace. The best way to maximize climbing time is to book a custom trip. Some down time during which your guide will be building anchors and other group members will be climbing. An introduction to climbing gear and proper climbing techniques (climbing boots, crampons, helmets and ice tools provided by MICA Guides) Progression of climbing throughout the day, from beginner bouldering to more challenging and physically demanding walls. The majority of climbing terrain requires lowering into glacial features such as a moulins (deep shafts in the ice) or glacial canyons. Guests on this trip should not be afraid of height exposure.
For Ice Climbing 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!
  • 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
  • Tall synthetic or wool socks
  • Extra warm layers
  • Snacks and lunch
  • Thin Liner gloves if your hands get cold. You do not need ski gloves
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
Our recommendations on clothing and gear:
  • Yes you can bring your camera!
  • Colorful clothing makes for better photos!
Do not bring:
  • Bear Spray
  • Fire Arms
  • Alcohol
Accessing the backcountry requires a strenuous 2-mile hike over loose rock, muddy ice, and steep slopes, typically taking 1–1.5 hours each way. This effort allows us to escape the crowds and reach the glacier’s most remote and spectacular climbing terrain. Safety is our top priority; if your guide determines the backcountry cannot be safely reached, the itinerary will be adjusted and may not include rope-assisted exploration. No refunds or price adjustments will be made in these cases.

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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!