Matanuska Glacier Backcountry Ice Climbing

Discover the Thrill of Matanuska Glacier Backcountry Ice Climbing

The Matanuska Glacier Backcountry Ice Climbing tour offers an 8-hour adventure just 100 miles north of Anchorage, Alaska. Priced with no experience necessary, this guided trip introduces visitors to the exciting world of ice climbing in a beginner-friendly setting. The tour is led by NOVA Alaska Guides, a reputable company with over 35 years in guiding, ensuring safety and expert instruction throughout the day.

Participants are outfitted with high-quality gear, including hiking boots, crampons, helmets, ice axes, harnesses, and climbing hardware. The tour features lower-angle walls of 50+ feet, making it accessible for newcomers and those with intermediate skills. An important highlight is the personalized guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4, allowing ample attention and tailored instruction for each climber.

While the tour includes a 15-minute van transfer from the meeting point at Mile marker 96.5 Glenn Hwy., the core experience unfolds on the stunning Matanuska Glacier, where climbers get to scale vertical ice walls in a safe environment. The glacier terrain continuously shifts, with new features emerging daily, ensuring each trip delivers a fresh perspective on glacier climbing.

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Key Points

• Beginner-friendly ice climbing experience with no prior skills required
• 8-hour guided tour led by experienced guides from NOVA Alaska Guides
• High-quality gear provided, including crampons, ice axes, and harnesses
• Accessible location just 100 miles north of Anchorage in the Chugach Mountains
• Personalized attention with a 1:4 guide-to-guest ratio
• Includes a scenic trek over rocky moraine and past the glacier face into the backcountry

Starting Point at NOVA Alaska Guides in Anchorage

The adventure begins at NOVA Alaska Guides, located at Mile marker 96.5 Glenn Hwy. From here, a 15-minute van transfer takes guests to the edge of the Matanuska Glacier. The meeting point provides a convenient base to prepare for the day ahead, with clear directions to access the drive-in camp.

This meeting location is well-organized, ensuring a smooth start to the trip. Once at the glacier, a 15-minute safety briefing sets the stage for the day. The guides emphasize safety protocols and introduce the gear, making sure everyone feels comfortable before heading into the backcountry.

Trekking into the Glacier Backcountry

After the briefing, climbers trek over rocky glacial moraine and past the white glacial face to reach the climbing zones. This hike offers stunning views and introduces guests to the unique landscape of the Chugach Mountains. The terrain is constantly changing, with ice formations that shift daily, keeping each trip fresh and engaging.

The backcountry trek is a key part of the experience, providing opportunities to appreciate the glacier’s massive scale and natural beauty. The guides carefully choose accessible and safe climbing walls, ensuring a balance between challenge and safety for beginners.

Climbing on the Shallow Vertical Ice Walls

The core of the tour is the guided ice-climbing session on shallow vertical ice walls of 50+ feet. These walls are ideal for beginners, with lower-angle terrain that allows safe learning and progression. The top anchor systems are quick to set up, minimizing waiting time and maximizing climbing time.

Guides work closely with each participant to teach fundamental safety protocols and proper climbing techniques. Once harnessed and instructed, climbers ascend the ice with guidance, gaining confidence and skill in a controlled environment. The terrain’s constantly shifting nature means each climb presents new features and challenges.

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Top-Notch Equipment and Safety Measures

Participants are outfitted with top-of-the-line gear, including hiking boots, crampons, helmets, ice axes, harnesses, ropes, and hardware. The equipment is maintained to the highest standards, ensuring safety and comfort during the climb.

Guides conduct safety checks before each ascent, review climbing procedures, and provide personal instruction. The 1:4 guide-to-guest ratio means ample attention for everyone, especially important for beginners or those trying ice climbing for the first time.

The Unique Landscape of the Matanuska Glacier

Located within the Chugach Mountains, the Matanuska Glacier is a 26-mile-long advancing valley glacier known for its shallow vertical walls. The glacier’s position makes it one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers, allowing for dramatic scenery and close-up glacier exploration.

Because the glacier constantly shifts and melts, the climbing features evolve, making each experience different. The environment invites curiosity and offers a dynamic setting where new ice formations emerge regularly, providing fresh challenges for repeated visits.

Practical Details and What to Bring

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with the actual climbing taking several hours within that period. Participants should bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and gloves. These essentials keep you comfortable throughout the day in Alaska’s variable weather.

The meeting point in Anchorage is accessible, and all climbing gear, except personal items, is included. The tour is suitable for those over 12 years old, but it excludes individuals over 65 years, under 99 lbs, or over 250 lbs for safety reasons. Also, the glacier park charges a $55 per person entrance fee, payable at check-in.

The Experience of Climbing in the Backcountry

Climbing on the shallow, vertical walls offers both a manageable challenge and an exhilarating sense of achievement. Guides demonstrate techniques and provide hands-on instruction, making it an ideal introduction for beginners.

The backcountry setting enhances the experience, as you trek past the glacier face and into pristine wilderness. The shifting landscape means every climb is unique, with the ice formations transforming as the glacier melts and refreezes.

Guided Support and Personal Attention

With expert guides leading the day, safety and education are prioritized. The guides are knowledgeable about glacier ecology and safety, and they foster a supportive environment for newcomers to try ice climbing.

The small group size ensures personalized instruction and close supervision, which enhances confidence and learning. This setup allows climbers to push their boundaries comfortably under professional guidance.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Additional Information

The tour is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This allows for peace of mind when planning your trip. Booking is on a reserve now, pay later basis, giving travelers the chance to secure a spot without immediate payment.

The full-day experience includes all necessary equipment, instruction, and transfers. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a safe, guided introduction to ice climbing without the need for prior experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This ice climbing adventure suits beginners, families with older children, and anyone curious about glacier environments. The accessible walls and expert guidance make it a safe and enjoyable introduction to ice climbing in Alaska. However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, people with heart problems, or those outside the specified weight and age limits.

Final Thoughts on Matanuska Glacier Backcountry Ice Climbing

The Matanuska Glacier Backcountry Ice Climbing tour offers a unique mix of adventure, education, and stunning scenery. The focus on safety, personalized attention, and top-quality gear makes it ideal for first-timers or those looking to try ice climbing in a pristine natural setting.

While the glacier’s constantly shifting landscape presents an ever-changing environment, the guides’ expertise ensures a safe and memorable experience. If you’re seeking an active day in Alaska’s backcountry with professional support and breathtaking views, this tour provides a compelling option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior experience needed for this ice climbing tour? No, this is designed as a beginner-friendly experience with no prior climbing skills required.

What is included in the tour price? The tour includes all necessary gear, a safety briefing, and guided climbing on the glacier.

How long is the tour? The full day lasts approximately 8 hours, with the guided climbing portion taking several hours.

Where does the tour start? It begins at NOVA Alaska Guides, located at Mile marker 96.5 Glenn Hwy in Anchorage.

What should I bring? Participants should wear warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and gloves.

Are there age restrictions? Yes, it is suitable for ages 12 and up, but not for children under 12 or individuals over 65.

What is the glacier park entrance fee? The fee is $55 per person, payable at check-in, as the glacier is privately owned.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the gear provided? Yes, all climbing gear, including harnesses, crampons, ice axes, and helmets, is included.

Are there any restrictions on weight? Yes, the tour is not suitable for those under 99 lbs or over 250 lbs for safety reasons.

What makes this tour stand out? The personalized guide support, accessible glacier terrain, and dynamic landscape make it a memorable and safe introduction to ice climbing in Alaska.

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