Girdwood: Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour

Girdwood: Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour – An Up-Close Glacier Adventure in Alaska

The Girdwood Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour offers a remarkable way to explore Alaska’s stunning landscape. Priced at $406 per person and lasting between 9 to 12 hours, this tour combines peaceful kayaking on Spencer Lake with scenic train rides through the Grandview and Tunnels sections of the Alaska Railroad. It’s perfect for those wanting a memorable day immersed in nature’s quiet beauty, with the opportunity to paddle around icebergs and get close to the Spencer Glacier terminus face.

This tour is suitable for a wide range of experience levels, from beginners to expert paddlers. The calm waters and absence of tidal influence at Spencer Lake make it an accessible and relaxing experience. However, participants should be prepared for a full-day outing that involves some physical activity and outdoor gear, including warm clothing, gloves, and a camera. The trip’s highlights include the tranquil sunrise kayaking and the memorable scenic train rides, which elevate the overall adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Serene morning kayaking around icebergs and close to Spencer Glacier’s face
• Includes train rides on the Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery trains
• Approximately 4 miles of kayaking on Spencer Lake, with a 2-mile paddle across the lake
• Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers; minimum age 8 years
• All gear provided: splash tops, spray skirts, PFDs, and adventure equipment
• Full-day experience lasting 9-12 hours with a catered lunch included

Kayaking Among Icebergs and the Spencer Glacier Face

The Iceberg Kayak Morning Tour begins with a smooth paddle across Spencer Lake, which covers approximately 2 miles each way. The early morning light enhances the brilliant blue ice and creates a calm, glassy surface, making it an ideal time for peaceful kayaking. The absence of tidal influence means paddlers can enjoy a steady, relaxing experience without strong currents.

As you approach the Spencer Glacier terminus face, you’ll get remarkably close to the blue wall, and can paddle among floating icebergs of various sizes. The experience emphasizes serenity and breathtaking views, making it a highlight for nature lovers who appreciate quiet moments on pristine waters. The total kayaking distance is about 4 miles, and the tour can be tailored to individual paddling skills, making it accessible for a broad audience.

Exploring the Spencer Glacier Moraine and Blue Wall

A key part of this tour involves hiking onto the moraine that surrounds Spencer Glacier. Once ashore, the trail leads to a vantage point near the blue glacier wall, where the vivid ice formations and rugged landscape inspire awe. This close-up encounter with the glacier’s edge allows for fantastic photo opportunities and an appreciation of the glacier’s scale and color.

The guided hike onto the moraine is not overly strenuous, but participants should wear warm clothing, gloves, and a hat to stay comfortable in the outdoor environment. The guide shares insights about the glacier and moraine formation, enriching the experience with educational details. This stop is especially popular for those wanting a more immersive glacier experience combined with the tranquil kayak paddle.

Scenic Train Rides on the Alaska Railroad

After the kayaking and glacier exploration, the tour includes two scenic train rides: the Coastal Classic and the Glacier Discovery trains. These journeys pass through some of Alaska’s most beautiful landscapes, including the Grandview & Tunnels sections of the railroad, known for their stunning vistas and natural beauty.

Traveling through these sections offers panoramic views of mountain ranges, lush forests, and sweeping valleys, providing a relaxing and scenic conclusion to the active part of the day. These train rides are included in the tour price and serve as a great way to unwind while soaking in Alaska’s rugged scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Logistics

Meeting points for the tour may vary depending on the option booked, but all arrangements include train tickets on the AK Railroad and a catered sack lunch. All necessary adventure gear such as splash tops, spray skirts, and life vests are provided for the kayaking portion, ensuring safety and comfort on the water.

The tour is designed to be flexible, with live English-speaking guides leading the experience. The tour duration ranges from 9 to 12 hours, with availability times depending on the season and weather conditions. Participants should bring a camera, gloves, warm clothing, and a hat for the entire day.

Physical Requirements and Age Restrictions

Participants should be aware of weight and size considerations for the kayaks: maximum weight is approximately 240 lbs, and maximum height is 63 inches. The paddle across Spencer Lake is about 2 miles one way and can take between 20 minutes and 1 hour, depending on weather and paddling pace.

The minimum age for kayaking is 8 years. Children under 8 years can participate in the tour using a raft instead of kayaks, but this requires advance arrangement. All children under 8 must paddle tandem with a parent or experienced paddler.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The serenity of the morning paddle on Spencer Lake is a key feature, as the water is calm, and the early light enhances the beauty of the icebergs and glacier. The combination of kayaking and scenic train rides offers a well-rounded view of Alaska’s natural wonders while maintaining a relaxed pace.

The tour’s small group size allows guides to connect more with each participant, sharing insights about the glacier, moraine, and local environment. The inclusion of all gear and comfortable logistics makes this an accessible, well-organized choice for those seeking a peaceful, scenic adventure.

Potential Limitations to Consider

While designed for a broad range of paddling ability, participants should be prepared for a full-day outdoor experience. Weather conditions can affect the paddling and viewing, especially in the early morning, so dressing in warm layers is essential. The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years unless using a raft, and those with mobility issues should consider the physical demands involved.

Girdwood Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour – Final Thoughts

This tour offers a unique blend of tranquility and scenic grandeur right in the heart of Alaska. The chance to kayak among icebergs and get close to the Spencer Glacier provides a memorable experience, especially during the peaceful morning hours. The scenic train rides complement the adventure perfectly, making it a comprehensive day of exploration.

While the experience is accessible for a wide range of paddlers, the full-day format and outdoor gear requirements mean it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with outdoor conditions. The $406 price includes train tickets, a catered lunch, and all necessary gear, offering good value considering the quality and scale of the experience.

The Girdwood Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour stands out as a peaceful, scenic, and educational journey into Alaska’s glacial landscapes, ideal for those looking for a calm yet awe-inspiring outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of day for this tour?
The tour takes place in the morning, when the water is calm, and the light highlights the icebergs’ brilliant blue color.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for beginners and expert paddlers alike. The paddle distance is manageable, and gear is provided for safety.

What should I bring for the trip?
Participants should bring a camera, gloves, warm clothing, and a hat to stay comfortable during the outdoor activities.

How long is the kayaking portion?
The total kayaking distance is about 4 miles, with the paddle across Spencer Lake being approximately 2 miles each way.

Are children under 8 years old allowed?
Children under 8 years cannot participate in kayaking but may join the tour using a raft if arranged in advance.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers train tickets, a catered sack lunch, all adventure gear, and guidance from live English-speaking guides.

What makes this tour special?
The serene morning kayaking, combined with scenic train rides through Alaska’s most stunning landscapes, creates a peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience.

How physically demanding is the tour?
While accessible to many, participants should be comfortable with outdoor activities and walking on uneven terrain during the glacier hike.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 10 days in advance for a full refund.

What kind of scenery can I expect during the train rides?
Traveling on the Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery trains, you’ll see mountain ranges, lush forests, and sweeping valleys—some of the most scenic parts of the Alaska Railroad.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is offered by Chugach Adventures, known for organizing outdoor experiences in Alaska.

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