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On The Matanuska Glacier

Meet Glacier Content Manager Ali

Ali Ali started as an Assistant Exposure Guide with MICA Guides in 2019. As the world has changed so has her focus to writing and sharing experiences through web based platforms. She is currently based out of Durango, Colorado enjoying and exploring the intersectional expanse of mountains and desert. When she is not writing or…

The Science Behind Ziplines

The Science Behind Ziplines Ziplines are an exciting experience for thrill-seeking adventures, and are also a speedy, efficient means of travel between two points on a downward slope. But how exactly do ziplines do their job? Let’s take a look at the science behind ziplines.   Gravity Gravity is the essential force in bringing you…

Glacier Moulins

Moulins French Influence Moulin, a French word for “mill”, are vertical rivers that serve as a glacier’s internal plumbing system. They carry water out of the glacier by meltwater streams and lakes formed on the surface of Meltwater moves over the surface of the ice, finding the pathway of least resistance. the ice. These shafts…

Mysterious Matanuska Moss Balls

Glacial Feature of the Month: Glacier Moss Matanuska Mice Nobody really knows what they are in for when first coming to the Matanuska Glacier. Some expect an arctic wasteland of snow and wind while others expect arching ice caves reaching up to the parking lot. One thing that nobody expects to find are balls of…

Meet Ice Climbing Guide Adam

Adam Adam is studying Environmental Science at the University of Vermont and desperately tries to hide the fact that he is from New Jersey. While not in class, he is outside climbing, hiking and leading trips or playing Bob Dylan songs on the guitar.

Fourth of July in Glacier View

Fourth of July in Glacier View If you’re looking for something to do with the family on July 4th, then take a look at the Glacier View Fourth of July Car Launch. Located each year at Glacier View River Retreat just off Mile 99 of the West Glenn Highway. This is an eclectic event that…

Anchorage Ice Climbing Road Trip

Anchorage is a hub for adventure. This city is a place to touch down and gain access to a variety of recreation and exploration. Almost every road and dirt path way is lined with a few gems to add to any experience. An Anchorage ice climbing road trip is no different. This quick journey from…

Matanuska Glacier Over Time

A Natural History During the last glacial maximum, about 22,000 years ago, the Matanuska Glacier reached its peak in size. The terminus once reached the north end of Anchorage. The Knik Glacier met with the Matanuska and formed a lobed shape during this time period. Geological evidence points to these two glaciers retreating in two…

Why is Glacier Ice Blue

Exploring Blue Ice The Matanuska Glacier is an incredible feature of our natural environment located in central southern Alaska. The terminus is located in Glacier View, Alaska, right where the MICA Guides Base is located. On the MICA base, we have an incredible view of the white and blue ice that extends for 27 miles…

Meet Ice Climbing Guide Brett

With infectious energy and a quick witted sense of humor, Brett never struggles to find adventure. Whether it be ice climbing, skiing, or multi-pitch rock climbing, he is always searching for creative and courageous routes through the mountains. Born in the flat corn fields of Central Illinois, his excitement for traveling to new places eventually…