Matanuska Glacier Tour

Discover the Majestic Matanuska Glacier on a Guided Tour

The Matanuska Glacier Tour offers an incredible opportunity to hike along one of Alaska’s most accessible and spectacular natural wonders. For $115 per person, this approximately 3-hour adventure is led by NOVA Alaska Guides, a company with over 30 years of experience. The tour combines ease of access with the thrill of exploring a 26-mile-long active glacier.

This adventure is ideal for those interested in up-close glacier views, natural formations like seracs, crevasses, and moulins, and learning about glacier formation from knowledgeable guides. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with gear provided and transportation included. A key highlight is the opportunity to stand at the glacier’s terminus and witness the dynamic Ice Falls area, where towering ice cascades over rocky terrain.

What the Matanuska Glacier Tour Includes for $115

The tour package covers all the essentials needed for a safe and engaging experience. Participants receive a helmet, boots, and boot spikes to navigate the uneven terrain comfortably. Transportation by shuttle takes guests from the meeting point at NOVA Alaska Guides to the glacier’s edge, minimizing the hassle of logistics.

A professional guide leads the group, sharing their expertise on the glacier’s natural features and geology. The full gear outfitting ensures everyone is prepared for the rugged environment, and the small group size (maximum 20 travelers) helps maintain a personal and attentive experience. The park entrance fee is separate, costing $55 for adults (17+) and $25 for teens, which visitors should keep in mind.

Starting Point: Meeting at NOVA Alaska Guides

The tour begins at 38100 Glenn Hwy, Glacier View, AK 99674. From here, participants are transported comfortably to the glacier’s terminus, located at the Matanuska Glacier State Recreational Site. The convenient meeting location makes it easy to join the tour, whether arriving from nearby areas or as part of a larger Alaska itinerary.

Once at the starting point, the group receives a gear briefing, ensuring everyone knows how to safely navigate the glacier’s surface. The transportation back to the meeting point concludes the experience, making this a seamless trip with minimal logistical fuss.

Exploring the Rugged Terminal Moraine

After arriving at the glacier, the guide leads the group across the rugged terminal moraine—a landscape shaped by the glacier’s slow retreat over thousands of years. The terrain is characterized by rocky debris and uneven surfaces, adding to the adventure’s thrill.

The guide shares insights into how the glacier formed and how it continues to carve the landscape today. This part of the tour provides a solid understanding of glacier geology while allowing close-up views of deep crevasses and flowing moulins—natural holes where melting water streams through the ice.

Walking into the Ice Falls and Viewing Seracs

One of the most striking aspects of this tour is the chance to walk into the ‘Ice Falls’ area. Here, dense ice cascades over rocky outcrops, creating towering seracs—natural ice towers that are both breathtaking and photogenic.

Standing at the base of these formations offers a sense of scale and power, as the glaciers continue their slow but relentless movement. Travelers can observe ice formations that change constantly, making each visit unique. Many guides share fascinating details about glacier dynamics, adding depth to the visual spectacle.

Encountering Deep Crevasses and Flowing Moulins

During the hike, there’s a good chance to see deep crevasses, which are cracks in the glacier’s surface. These features highlight the glacier’s movement and the forces shaping it. Plus, flowing moulins—circular, funnel-shaped holes—are accessible, revealing the internal meltwater channels that contribute to glacier lubrication and movement.

Exploring these features provides an immersive experience, giving a tangible sense of the glacier’s dynamic nature. The guide’s commentary enhances the understanding of how these features form and what they signify about the glacier’s health and future.

Marveling at the Pristine Lake and River Source

At the base of the Ice Falls, visitors are treated to views of a pristine lake, which serves as the source of the powerful Matanuska River. This serene setting contrasts beautifully with the rugged ice above, offering a peaceful spot for photos and reflection.

The guide explains how the glacier feeds this lake and river, emphasizing the connection between the ice and the surrounding ecosystem. This moment underscores the importance of glaciers in Alaska’s landscape and water systems.

Filling Your Bottle with Fresh Glacier Water

An added highlight is the opportunity to fill a water bottle with glacier water, showcasing the purity of this natural resource. Drinking from a glacier-fed stream provides a tangible reminder of the pristine environment, and many find it a memorable part of the experience.

It’s a simple but powerful way to connect with the landscape, emphasizing the untouched quality of the glacier and its surroundings.

Returning and Reflecting on the Glacier Experience

After exploring the Ice Falls and observing the glacier’s features, the group retraces its steps across the moraine back to the shuttle. The return journey offers a chance to reflect on the scale of the landscape and the forces that shape it.

The tour ends back at the meeting point, bringing a well-rounded experience that combines adventure, education, and stunning natural beauty. This tour’s focus on guided storytelling and interactive exploration makes it a compelling choice for anyone interested in Alaska’s glaciers.

Logistics, Group Size, and Accessibility

This tour accommodates up to 20 travelers, ensuring a relatively small and manageable group. The start and end point is at the same location in Glacier View, AK, with transportation included to and from the glacier’s edge.

Participants should be prepared for moderate physical activity, including walking across uneven terrain and possibly encountering weather changes. The shoe size limit is US Men 5 and Women 6, so travelers should verify their fit beforehand. While most ages are welcome, it’s not recommended for children under 10 or travelers over 73.

Price and Additional Costs to Consider

The $115 price covers guided instruction, gear, and transportation. However, the park entrance fee is separate, with prices varying for different age groups and Alaska residents. Teens (13-16) pay $25, while adults (17+) pay $55. Buyers should plan accordingly, especially if visiting with family or groups.

Gratuities for guides are not included but are customary for excellent service. Guests should also bring their own water and wear layered clothing suitable for variable weather conditions.

Why Choose This Glacier Tour Over Others

This tour’s long-standing reputation—having been operated for over 30 years—speaks to its reliability and quality. The small group size, personalized guiding, and focus on interactive learning make it stand out from larger or less specialized tours.

The inclusion of all gear and transportation simplifies logistics, allowing travelers to focus solely on enjoying the scenery. The ability to walk on the glacier and observe features like seracs, crevasses, and moulins actively distinguishes this experience from viewing glaciers from afar.

Final Thoughts on the Matanuska Glacier Tour

The Matanuska Glacier Tour provides a well-rounded, accessible, and educational experience of one of Alaska’s most impressive glaciers. With expert guides, top-quality gear, and compelling natural features, it offers value for $115 and a memorable outdoor adventure.

While the park entrance fee is additional, the overall experience delivers a close-up look at active glacial landscapes that are constantly changing. It’s perfect for those who want to see and learn about glaciers in a manageable, guided setting.

This tour is best suited for adventurers aged 10 and up, who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and interested in geology and natural beauty. It’s a highly rated choice for anyone eager to explore Alaska’s icy wilderness with professional guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is recommended for travelers aged 10 and above. The physical aspects and terrain may not be suitable for very young children.

What is included in the tour price?
The $115 covers guides, gear (helmet, boots, spikes), and shuttle transportation. The park entrance fee is separate.

How long is the tour?
The tour duration is approximately 3 hours, including travel time and glacier exploration.

Do I need to bring anything?
Participants should wear layered clothing suitable for outdoor conditions. Hydration is encouraged, and there’s an opportunity to fill a water bottle with glacier water.

What are the physical requirements?
Moderate physical activity is involved, such as walking over uneven and rocky terrain. Comfortable footwear with spikes is provided to assist.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at NOVA Alaska Guides in Glacier View, AK. Transportation is provided to and from the glacier’s edge.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, it is not recommended for travelers under 10 or over 73 years old.

What makes this tour stand out?
The long-standing experience of over 30 years, small group sizes, and the chance to walk into the Ice Falls make this glacier tour a compelling choice for adventure seekers.

How do I prepare for changing weather?
Layered clothing is advised, and travelers should be prepared for possible drizzles or cooler temperatures during the glacier walk.