Matanuska Glacier Backcountry Ice Climb

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8 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Discover the thrill of Backcountry Ice Climbing with NOVA’s expert guides! Whether you're a beginner or looking to try something new, our introductory ice climbing experience offers an accessible and exciting way to challenge yourself in the stunning surroundings of the Matanuska Glacier. No prior experience is necessary—just a sense of adventure and a willingness to learn!

Join the original guiding company on the Matanuska Glacier, founded over 30 years ago, and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers. You’ll be outfitted with top-of-the-line gear, and our expert guides will provide all the instruction you need to safely learn the fundamentals of ice climbing. Explore the glacier’s frozen landscape as you climb its ice walls, gaining new skills while taking in breathtaking views of this natural wonder.

Let’s go—reach new heights and experience the thrill of ice climbing on the Matanuska Glacier!

What's Included

Professional climbing guide
Shuttle transportation to and from the activity.
Helmet, boots, crampons, harness, ice axes
Matanuska Glacier Park entrance fee: Teens (13-16): $25 , Adults (17+): $55 , Alaska Residents, Military and Seniors (65+): $30
Gratuity for Guide

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Mile 96.5 Glenn Hwy. At Hick's Creek bridge turn into Trailhead Rd. Follow the driveway under the bridge and proceed to our camp check-in location.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

The Matanuska Glacier is a massive 26-mile-long advancing valley glacier located in the Chugach Mountains, just 100 miles north of Anchorage. It provides the perfect setting for an introductory ice climbing experience, with easily accessible, shallow vertical ice walls ideal for beginners and intermediate climbers.

This is a basic ice climbing session, focusing on lower-angle walls and heights of 50+ feet. All systems use top anchor setups, which our guides will take a few minutes to prepare. Once the anchors and ropes are in place, your guide will harness you up, go over safety protocols, and explain the fundamentals of climbing before you start your climb!

To reach the climbing areas, you’ll embark on a challenging trek from the vehicle parking lot. The trail crosses the rocky moraine and takes you past the glacier’s front face, all the way to the rarely explored backcountry.

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Shoe size: Min US 5M, 4.5W, Max US 14M
  • Not recommended for travelers over 250lbs, under 100lbs
Supplied by NOVA Alaska Guides, Whitewater Rafting & Glacier Tours
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Hiking Tours
Winter Sports
Photography Tours
Glacier Walks
Ice Climbing
Photo Shoots
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Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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