Base Camp: The Matanuska Glacier

Categories: Alaska Helicopter Experiences, Matanuska Glacier Activities, Matanuska Glacier Camping, Matanuska Glacier Hike and Trek, Matanuska Glacier Ice ClimbingTags: , , , , ,
aerial view of glacier camp on Matanuska Glacier

Camping on A Glacier

Each day on the Matanuska Glacier feels like entering a new world. With every sunrise, meltwater carves fresh canyons, crevasses change, and blue ice caves form in a matter of days. When crampons go on, and ropes go up, time slips away. A full day on the ice never feels long enough.

Taking Flight

It wasn’t long until we realized maybe our adventures didn’t have to end at sunset. With the help of Matanuska Glacier Helicopters and the MICA Guides crew, we were ready to extend our stay on the Matanuska Glacier. After gearing up at the base in Glacier View, it was off to the helicopter launch pad just down the road. Climbing into the helicopter passenger seats, we were off to enjoy the most epic views of the Matanuska Glacier.
Not to mention, cutting out a huge amount of time and spent energy with the quick flight out.
Our pilot graced us with their favorite tunes in the personal headsets given to us upon entry. As we lifted and hovered over the forests into the valley, the cameras came out, and the videos began capturing some of the best views around. It wasn’t long before we were far from the crowds and landing in a secluded section of the glacier.
Exploring the Matanuska Glacier

An Ice Climbing Experience

a family walking on glacier ice

To our pleasant surprise, coming back to our bag cache meant arriving to the newly established base camp. Equipped with personal tents and a bonfire, right on the ice. Stories and laughter circled the fire as everyone sat back into their chairs. With the smells of a freshly made dinner filling our senses we sat back and enjoyed an Alaskan sunset from the ice. A warm and delicious meal tasted that much better knowing our beds were only a few steps away.

Not long after the sun disappeared behind the ice, we all retired to our tent by some of the brightest starlight we had ever seen. Our tents kept us warm and comfortable through the night. The bright morning light welcomed us with fresh coffee and a full breakfast already prepared. After quickly eating, we were ready to get on the ice again. This time to check out different features we hadn’t had the time to get to the day before.

With an helicopter pick up in the afternoon we made the most of our pristine and secluded glacier time. Once the helicopter arrived we were ready to sit back and enjoy the spectacular views of the Matanuska Valley. It seems no amount of time could ever be enough to explore the glacier. An unforgettable overnight camping experience on the Matanuska sure did bring us closer than we have ever been though.