Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure

Imagine standing on a glacier, feeling the cool crunch beneath your boots, surrounded by towering ice formations and roaring waterfalls. That’s exactly what the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure offers—a full day of exploring one of Alaska’s most accessible and awe-inspiring glaciers. This tour is a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see glacier landscapes up close, learn about their formation, and enjoy a day outside with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

What we find appealing about this experience is the combination of adventure and education—a chance to not only walk across ice but also understand what makes glaciers like Exit Glacier so vital. The included lunch on the glacier is a real treat, offering a unique dining experience amid stunning natural scenery. On the flip side, it’s essential to consider that this tour demands a good level of fitness due to the terrain’s steepness and unevenness. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable walking long distances and hiking on challenging surfaces.

This tour is a perfect fit for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and anyone interested in glaciology or Alaska’s wilderness. If you’re seeking a full-day, active experience with expert guides and spectacular views, this could be just the adventure you’re craving.

Key Points

• Guided tour with professional glacier guides ensures safety and valuable insights
• Includes all necessary glacier-hiking equipment for a secure experience
• A full-day adventure that combines stunning scenery with educational stories
• Complimentary lunch on the glacier adds a memorable touch
• Transportation from Seward is convenient and included
• Requires good physical fitness due to steep and uneven terrain

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An Overview of the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure

This 8-hour tour, offered by Kenai Backcountry Adventures, promises an active, immersive experience in Kenai Fjords National Park. For $320 per person, you get more than just a walk on the ice—you get an opportunity to understand glaciology, witness breathtaking waterfalls, and stand amid towering ice formations that seem almost sculpted from another world.

The journey begins with courtesy transportation from Seward to Kenai Fjords National Park, making the logistics straightforward. Once on site, you’ll be equipped with a small backpack, helmet, harness, crampons, and trekking poles—all provided and carefully fitted by your guides. This equipment is crucial for safety and stability while navigating the icy surface, especially since the terrain can be steep and uneven.

What to Expect During the Day

The day kicks off with a check-in, so arriving 30 minutes early is recommended to get your gear and instructions sorted. You’ll then meet your friendly, professional guides, who are experts in glaciology and local history. Their knowledge transforms the hike into a learning experience, sharing stories about the glacier’s past, the Harding Icefield, and how glaciers shape the landscape.

After a safety briefing, you’ll set out onto the glacier. The terrain varies, with glacial crevasses, waterfalls, and icy terraces creating a dynamic environment. The crisp mountain air and the scent of alder from the surrounding boreal forests add sensory richness to the experience. The guides will lead you across the glacier, stopping at several scenic viewpoints and interesting features.

One of the tour’s highlights is lunch on the glacier, a surprisingly comfortable and memorable experience. You’ll enjoy a delicious deli wrap, granola bar, and fresh fruit—a simple but satisfying meal amid the icy landscape. The combination of the stunning scenery and the comfort of good food creates a sense of adventure with a touch of luxury.

Throughout the hike, you’ll learn fascinating facts about glacial formation, movement, and the local environment. Many reviews mention how Emily and Rebecca, the guides, are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make complex concepts accessible.

The Scenic Highlights

Expect to see spectacular glacial waterfalls, where meltwater plunges down icy cliffs, producing a mesmerizing spectacle. The views of the Harding Icefield are breathtaking, stretching endlessly in the distance, and the glacier crevasses provide a thrilling sense of scale and power. The fresh mountain air and the quiet of the wilderness make it a true escape from the world.

Multiple travelers have raved about the beauty and value of this experience. Kary, one reviewer, described it as “tough but worth it”, praising the amazing guides and the stunning scenery. Another noted how fun and beautiful the adventure was, highlighting the positive energy of the guides.

The Practical Side: What Travelers Need to Know

This tour is 8 hours long, with an emphasis on safety and physical readiness. The terrain involves long distances on steep or uneven surfaces, so a good-to-high level of fitness is essential. It’s not suitable for children under 10 or those with low fitness levels. Proper footwear and clothing are recommended, and you should arrive early to ensure you’re prepared.

Transportation is included, making the experience hassle-free. You’ll be able to focus entirely on the scenery and the adventure, rather than logistics. The cost of $320 per person reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, including guides, equipment, transportation, and a memorable meal.

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Is It Worth the Price?

Given the all-day duration, the quality of guides, and the opportunity to walk on a real glacier while gaining insights into glaciology and local history, the value is clear. It’s not just a hike; it’s an educational journey and a chance to stand in one of nature’s most impressive landscapes. The included lunch adds a nice touch, making the day feel complete.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best for adventurous travelers with a decent fitness level who want an authentic, active experience. It’s perfect for those curious about glaciers, geology, or Alaska’s wilderness. Families with young children under 10 might want to consider private options or different activities. If you’re not comfortable walking on steep, uneven terrain or have mobility issues, this tour might be too demanding.

The Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure offers a rare opportunity to come face-to-face with Alaska’s icy giants in a way that’s both educational and exhilarating. With knowledgeable guides, all equipment provided, and stunning scenery, it’s a value-packed day for those ready to challenge themselves and learn along the way. The experience strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort, making it suitable for travelers who want to see glaciers up close, understand their importance, and enjoy spectacular views.

If you’re craving a full-day, active, and authentic glacier experience—and don’t mind a bit of exercise—this tour is a smart choice. Just remember to be prepared physically, dress warmly, and bring your sense of curiosity and adventure.

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes courtesy round-trip ground transportation from Seward to Kenai Fjords National Park, making the logistics straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and learning opportunities.

What should I wear on the tour?
While specific clothing isn’t detailed, expect to be walking on ice and uneven terrain, so sturdy hiking shoes, layered clothing, and waterproof outerwear are recommended.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 10 years old are not suitable for this tour. Those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and able to handle the hiking distances and terrain.

What is included in the price?
Guides, all glacier-hiking equipment, a deli lunch, transportation, and hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.

Is this tour suitable for people with low fitness levels?
No, due to the steep and uneven terrain, a good-to-high fitness level is necessary.

What makes this tour a good value?
It combines a full day of guided glacier hiking, educational stories, scenic views, and a delicious lunch—all for a fair price considering the comprehensive experience and expert guides.

This detailed, balanced review should help you decide if the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure matches your travel style and expectations. Prepare well, and you’ll likely come away with unforgettable memories of Alaska’s icy wonderland.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby