Five glaciers near Anchorage, Alaska that you can reach by car or trail

Glaciers are often high on the list of things people want to see during a visit to Alaska. The good news is, wherever you are in Alaska, you probably will see a glacier. There are about 27,000 glaciers in Alaska but only a third of them have been named. Even if you choose not to make a visit to a glacier, you likely will spot a hanging glacier in the mountains while driving on Alaska’s highway system or from the tracks if you are riding the Alaska Railroad. 

But if you want to get a closer look, there are several glaciers in SouthCentral Alaska that can be reached by car or trail without a tour guide. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to some of the most accessible glaciers within driving distance from Anchorage that you can access on your own. There are many other glaciers that can be reached via lengthier hikes but we’ll leave those to the seriously adventurous glacier explorers. 

Before we get to the specifics, it is worth taking a moment to discuss glacier safety. Glaciers might seem serene from a distance, but they can hold unexpected dangers.

Glacier Safety

When visiting a glacier, start by staying on well-marked paths and maintained trails. These designated routes are designed to keep visitors safe while allowing them to experience the glacier’s beauty. Approaching the edge of a glacier can be hazardous, as melting ice can create unstable overhangs. Always keep a safe distance from these edges, and if you’re unsure about the stability of the ice, stay off. 

Weather conditions can change rapidly, affecting visibility and creating hazards. Check the weather forecast before your trip and be prepared with appropriate clothing layers. Even if it’s a sunny day, temperatures can drop significantly on glaciers, so dress warmly. And wear sturdy footwear to navigate icy terrain comfortably. Always hike with a partner if possible, as having someone with you greatly enhances safety.

Remember that glaciers are home to crevasses, which are deep cracks in the ice that can be difficult to spot. Avoid walking close to visible cracks or dark ice, as these can indicate areas of thinner ice. If you’re not comfortable with the terrain or feel unsure, it’s better to enjoy the glacier from a safe distance. Always let someone know about your plans and expected return time before setting out, even if you’re just planning a short visit.

By taking these safety precautions, you can enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier while ensuring your well-being during your exploration.

Now let’s go explore some glaciers!

Matanuska Glacier

If seeing the glacier from a distance is enough, pull into the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site located at milepost 101 on the Glenn Highway, approximately 100 miles from Anchorage. You’ll have amazing views of the glacier right from the parking lot. You can also walk along the Edge Nature Trail to additional glacier viewing platforms. You’ll find picnic areas and camping spots so plan to stay an hour or a few days. 

To get closer to the glacier, you’ll have to drive just one mile further on the Glenn Highway to milepost 102 where you’ll see the turnoff for Matanuska Glacier Tours. The only way to access the glacier is to book a tour but you’ll be glad you did. It is recommended that you book a tour ahead of time as tours fill up quickly. Turn off the highway onto Glacier Park Road and wind your way down into the valley and across the Matanuska River. Take a moment to notice how much water is flowing away from the glacier. Your guide will tell you how much and I promise you will be in awe of the figure!

The tour will take you onto the surface of the glacier where you’ll get an appreciation for the size and structure of the glacier. 

Exit Glacier

Exit Glacier is located within Kenai Fjords National Park and is the only part of the park accessible by car.

The glacier is just 12 miles from Seward and easily accessible by car. There is also a shuttle that runs frequently between Seward and Exit Glacier. There is no cell service or public phone at Exit Glacier so be sure to pre-arrange your return trip.  Stop by the Nature Center to talk to a Park Ranger, shop at the Alaska Geographic bookstore and learn more about the glacier and surrounding area.

The hike to the glacier is adaptable to all ages and abilities. The Glacier View Loop trail is 1 mile long and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. This loop winds through Cottonwood forests and provides a panoramic view of the valley and the glacier.

The Glacier Overlook trail will take you a bit closer to the glacier. This portion of the trail includes a rougher trail with some climbing and minor rock scrambling. Our two-year old navigated the trail with no problem, but he is an Alaskan two-year-old! They grow them tough up here!

You can hike to the toe of the glacier; however, there is no set trail and the stream channels can change frequently. During times of flooding, the outwash plain is not accessible. If the water is low, and you do venture close to the glacier, do not get close if the ice is higher than your head. Large chunks of ice often fall without warning and can be extremely dangerous. Be sure to follow any posted warnings and stay on the trail when advised. 

For the more adventurous, continue on to the Harding Icefield Trail. This 8.2 round trip hike is strenuous and recommended for experienced hikers only. Allow 6 to 8 hours for the hike and plan for cold, rainy weather. This trail is often still covered in snow in mid-July. Nearly 40 glaciers flow from the Harding Icefield within Kenai Fjords National Park.

Byron Glacier

Just 50 miles south of Anchorage, Byron Glacier is easy to access and a short family friendly hike provides spectacular views. Consider visiting the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center at Portage Glacier in the same trip as they are quite close to each other. 

From Anchorage, drive south on the Seward Highway to Portage Glacier Road. Drive for five miles and then turn onto Portage Lake Loop Road and follow the signs to the trailhead parking lot.

Follow the mostly flat trail along Byron Creek for about a mile to the viewing area. Stop there for dramatic views of the glacier and rugged mountains. The trail continues for another half-mile but it is more rugged and often covered in snow. 

Portage Glacier

Portage Glacier can be reached by foot or boat. It used to be visible from the current location of the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center but has since receded from view. To take the boat, you’ll start at the Visitor Center and board the MV Ptarmigan for a one-hour cruise which will take you to the terminus of the glacier. 

Experienced kayakers can paddle across Portage Lake to view the glacier. This lake often experiences high winds and is quite cold so paddling on your own is recommended for experienced kayakers only. 

The hike to Portage Glacier comes with the added benefit that you get to drive through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel which is the longest combined vehicle-railroad tunnel in North America. Be sure to check the schedule before you go as cars and trains alternate through the one-way tunnel. 

The Portage Pass trail is 2 miles each way with a 750-foot climb in elevation to the pass. After reaching the pass, you’ll drop down to the shores of Portage Lake where you can relax after your climb and take in the beauty of the glacier and surrounding mountains. 

No matter the weather in Anchorage or wherever you begin your day, bring rain gear and warm clothing. The weather on the other side of the Whittier tunnel is known for being wet, windy and cold. 

From Anchorage, drive south on the Seward Highway to Portage Glacier Road. After driving through the tunnel, turn right on Camp Road and right on Portage Trail Road to the trailhead. 

Worthington Glacier

Worthington Glacier is just off the Richardson Highway 28 miles north of Valdez. It is more than a day trip at 260 miles from Anchorage, but if you are driving to Valdez, you’ll definitely want to plan a stop.

The rest area is large with plenty of parking and paved trails leading to a viewing platform. At the time we went, a trail continued past the viewing platform; however, a mudslide closed the trail and it may not be open. If you are able to take the trail past the platform, do so with caution. Falling rocks and ice and crevices are common. 

From Anchorage, drive north on the Glenn Highway. At Glen Allen, head south on the Richardson Highway. The turnoff to the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site is at milepost 29. 

Glaciers accessed by boat, train or plane

If you want a little more excitement getting to your glacier, here are a few glaciers near Anchorage that can only be accessed by boat, train or helicopter.

Spencer Glacier

A visit to Spencer Glacier provides the added bonus of a ride on the Alaska Railroad. You’ll want to book tickets ahead of time on the Glacier Discovery Train. You can ride the train from Anchorage or get on at any of the other stops. Book a round trip ticket from Portage 2 to Spencer Whistle Stop for the least amount of time on the train (and lowest ticket price). Free parking is available at the Portage 2 stop. 

After a 20 minute ride, the train will stop at the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. The train goes on to Grandview and returns to the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop about three hours later. 

Restrooms and a covered shelter are available at the Whistle Stop. From the stop, it’s a 1.3 mile walk to the Spencer Glacier Overlook on the edge of Spencer Lake. Hike another 2.1 miles around Spencer Lake to the glacier terminus. Hike on your own or book a guided hike, kayak or float trip.  

If three hours isn’t enough time for you, campsites and a public use cabin are located nearby. 

Knik Glacier 

Knik Glacier is about an hour’s drive north of Anchorage and can be reached by helicopter, ATV, and jetboat. There are many tour companies providing these tours and an internet search will help you find one suited to your needs. 

One of our favorites is Knik Glacier Tours. You’ll start off with a 30 minute overland 4-wheel safari followed by a jet boat trip across the lake at the base of the Glacier. Keep an eye out for wildlife, icebergs and wildflowers on the way. 

Alaska Glacier Lodge  is a good place to start if you want to reach Knik Glacier by helicopter. Whether you want to hike or dogsled on the glacier or just enjoy the view, getting there by helicopter is an unforgettable Alaska experience. 

And if going up in a helicopter isn’t for you, settle in at the Raven’s Perch restaurant at the Lodge where you can enjoy locally sourced food and beverages and watch the helicopters take off and land. 

Crow, Raven, Eagle, Clear, Goat, Milk and Alyeska Glaciers

Although technically, you won’t be accessing these glaciers, you will have a great view of seven hanging glaciers after taking the Alyeska Tram to an elevation of 2300 feet above sea level on Mount Alyeska. From the upper tram terminal you can take a hike, enjoy the view or eat a four-course meal at Seven Glaciers restaurant under the shadow of Crow, Raven, Eagle, Clear, Goat, Milk and Alyeska Glaciers. 

Whether you get there by foot, boat or helicopter, viewing a glacier up close is one of the highlights of a visit to Alaska. Remember to be well-prepared, carry essential gear, and always prioritize safety when exploring these magnificent icy wonders. 

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the magic of SouthCentral Alaska’s glaciers leave you awe-inspired and craving for more. Happy glacier hunting!