Matanuska Glacier Backcountry Ice Climbing
About This Experience
The Matanuska is an unusually forgiving place to learn to climb ice. It is a 27-mile valley glacier in the Chugach Mountains, about 100 miles north-east of Anchorage, and its shallow vertical walls give beginners something to work on without the exposure of a serious alpine route. This day is built around that: lower-angle walls of 50 feet and more, climbed on a top rope.
No experience is assumed. Guides set the top anchors — which takes only a few minutes on ice like this — then harness you up, walk through the safety system and teach the fundamentals before you climb. All the technical equipment is included: trekking boots, crampons, helmet, harness and ice axes.
Instruction is hands-on and personal rather than a lecture to a big group, and the day is long enough (about eight hours) that you get repeated attempts rather than one nervous go. Most people find the second climb transforms the first.
The operator founded guiding on this glacier more than 35 years ago, and the summer months are when the ice is best suited to this. Note the weight and age limits: 12 and over, under 250 lb and over 99 lb, and no guests over 65 or with heart problems.
Highlights
- An introductory ice-climbing clinic — no experience necessary
- Top-roped walls of 50 feet and more, at beginner-friendly angles
- All technical gear supplied: crampons, helmet, harness and ice axes
- Hands-on personal instruction rather than group-lecture teaching
- A full, intense day on the ice with the glacier's original guiding company
What's Included
- ✓ Eight-hour guided backcountry ice climb
- ✓ Professional climbing guide
- ✓ All gear: trekking boots, crampons, helmet, harness and ice axes
- ✓ Shuttle from camp to the glacier terminus
Not Included
- Glacier Park gate fee (paid at check-in)
- Transport from Anchorage
- Food and drink
- Guide gratuity
What to Bring
- Warm layers
- Rain gear
- Gloves
- Hat
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water
- Lunch
Good to Know & Caveats
- Matanuska Glacier Park is privately owned and charges an entry fee at the gate: $55 per adult (17+), $25 for teens 13-16, $30 for Alaska residents, military and seniors 65+, and free for children 12 and under. Alaska State Park passes are not accepted. The fee is paid at trip check-in.
- Drones are not permitted on the glacier under this operator's policy.
- Weight limits apply: guests must be over 99 lb (45 kg) and under 250 lb (113 kg).
- This is a summer activity — the walls are climbed in the warmer months.
- The camp is about 100 miles from Anchorage; there is no transport from the city on this tour.
Not Suitable For
- Children under 12
- Guests over 65
- People with heart problems
- Guests under 99 lb (45 kg)
- Guests over 250 lb (113 kg)
Meeting Point
NOVA's camp at Mile 96.5 Glenn Highway, Glacier View. At the Hick's Creek bridge turn onto Trailhead Road, follow the driveway that loops under the bridge and continue to the camp entrance.
What Travelers Say
Rated 5.0/5 by 13 verified GetYourGuide travelers.
Was a phenomenal trip for a family of four. The glaciers are very scenic, the ice climbing was thrilling, our guide (Chantae) was a pro and good natured, and the hike was fun. Highly recommend to anybody looking to explore the great outdoors and experience a unique and challenging sport.
— Ken, August
Our trip was spectacular. Nate was the best guide - always optimistic, positive, and encouraging. He was a great teacher and made the day so fun. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
— Stephanie, August
Totally worth the money. We spent the entire day hiking and climbing. Our guides were so much fun and very informative. I'd do it again for sure.
— Page, October
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have climbed before?
No. This is an introductory clinic — the guides set the anchors, fit your harness, teach the technique and belay you. The walls are chosen for their beginner-friendly angle.
What gear do I need to bring?
None of the technical kit. Trekking boots, crampons, helmet, harness and ice axes are all provided. Bring warm layers, gloves, sunglasses, water and lunch.
How high are the climbs?
The walls are 50 feet and up, at lower angles than a full vertical pitch. It is enough height to feel real without being a committing route.
Are there weight or age limits?
Yes, and they are firmer than on the walking tours: minimum age 12, no guests over 65, and a weight range of 99 lb (45 kg) to 250 lb (113 kg). Guests with heart problems are not accepted.
Is the Glacier Park fee included?
No. Matanuska Glacier Park is privately owned and charges an entry fee at the gate: $55 per adult (17+), $25 for teens 13-16, $30 for Alaska residents, military and seniors 65+, and free for children 12 and under. Alaska State Park passes are not accepted. You pay it at check-in, in addition to the tour price.
Other Matanuska Glacier Tours
Anchorage: Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike and Tour
Matanuska Glacier Family Tour
From Anchorage: Matanuska Glacier Full-Day Tour
Hike Matanuska Glacier with Alaska Honey & Wine Tasting
Anchorage: Matanuska Glacier Hike with Transfers
Matanuska Glacier Tour
