Matanuska Glacier Winter Tour

If you’re eyeing a trip to Anchorage and want to see something truly unique, the Matanuska Glacier Winter Tour offers an impressive way to explore Alaska’s icy wonders without the hassle of driving on winter roads yourself. From what we’ve seen and heard, this tour is a favorite among travelers, consistently earning a perfect 5-star rating with 118 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate. It’s clear that most participants find this experience memorable and worth the cost.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the expert guides who make the experience engaging and safe, and the all-inclusive nature—meaning all the gear, transportation, and a delicious lunch are covered, removing a lot of the typical travel stress. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour requires a moderate fitness level and sturdy footwear, so it might not be ideal if you’re not comfortable walking on uneven icy surfaces.

This tour is best suited for those who love outdoor adventures, are eager to see one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers, and don’t mind a full-day outing that includes some physical activity. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or a small group, if the idea of walking on a glacier excites you, this experience could very well be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Easy Access: No need to drive yourself—this guided tour handles all transportation.
• Expert Guides: Local guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and safety-conscious.
• All-Inclusive: Equipment, transportation, and lunch are included, making it hassle-free.
• Flexible & Customized: Tours are tailored to suit your group’s interests.
• Great Value: The price reflects the comprehensive experience, especially considering the included gear and lunch.
• Peak Season Bookings: Most travelers book around 38 days in advance, so plan ahead.

What Is the Matanuska Glacier Winter Tour?

Imagine standing on Alaska’s largest glacier accessible by road—27 miles long and 4 miles wide—without needing to worry about the tricky winter drive. That’s what this tour offers. It’s a chance to explore a stunning natural marvel with the comfort of a guided experience, giving you a safe and informative way to get up close with the icy landscape.

The tour includes pickup from your Anchorage hotel, so you won’t need to worry about navigating icy roads or parking. This is particularly valuable in winter, when roads can be challenging, and safety is a priority. The entire day runs about 8 hours, which includes scenic drives, glacier exploration, and a hearty lunch.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Greatland Adventures

Your adventure begins at Greatland Adventures, the local operator that’s been guiding guests safely to Alaska’s icy treasures. Here, you’ll get a quick overview of what makes the Matanuska Glacier special: it’s the largest glacier accessible by road in Alaska, and it boasts some of the most accessible areas to walk on compared to other glaciers in the state.

The ice on display is millions of years old, having formed high up in the Chugach Mountains. The guides do a great job of explaining the glacier’s formation and significance, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.

Stop 2: Exploring the Glacier

Next, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the Glenn Highway—a route celebrated for its stunning mountain views and photo opportunities. The drive itself sets the tone early, with plenty of chances to snap pictures of snow-capped peaks and sweeping vistas.

Once at the glacier’s toe, you’ll be fitted with ice cleats—a must for safe glacier walking—and then step onto the ice. The guided walk usually lasts about two hours and covers around three miles, giving you plenty of time to marvel at the formations, crevasses, and shimmering ice. Keep in mind, each day’s landscape is different, thanks to the glacier’s constantly changing nature, which adds an element of unpredictability and excitement.

Several reviews highlight how remarkable it is to walk on such ancient ice, with one reviewer describing it as “a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list opportunity.” Guides are attentive to safety, so you’ll be in capable hands, and the experience is tailored to your group’s comfort and interests.

Lunch with Scenic Views

After exploring the ice, the tour moves to a local eatery with fantastic views of the glacier. Many travelers comment on the quality of the lunch, describing it as surprisingly good, especially considering the remote location. The setting makes for a relaxing break after the hike and offers more opportunities for photos.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included:

• Round-trip transportation from Anchorage
• Hotel pickup
• Services of a professional glacier guide
• Use of all necessary glacier walking equipment (ice cleats)
• Lunch at a local restaurant

Not included:

• Participants must be at least 8 years old
• You’ll need sturdy, stiff-soled footwear for glacier walking—no flimsy shoes allowed
• Bring warm clothing, sunglasses, camera, hat, gloves, and a water bottle (single-use containers aren’t provided)

The tour’s price, at $376.05 per person, covers most of what you need for a full day of adventure. Many reviews point out the good value considering the included gear, guides, and lunch, especially since the experience involves walking on an actual glacier—a true once-in-a-lifetime moment for many.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for an accessible, guided glacier experience, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for those with a moderate physical fitness level, since walking on ice can be uneven and sometimes challenging. The group size is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized and attentive experience.

Travelers who enjoy scenic drives, learning about glaciers from knowledgeable locals, and don’t mind a bit of cold will find this tour especially rewarding. Families with older children (8+) are welcome, and the reviews suggest that guides do a good job of making the experience safe and enjoyable for everyone.

What Are the Pros and Cons?

Pros

• Hassle-free transportation and hotel pickup in Anchorage
• Guided walks with local experts who provide fascinating insights
• All equipment included, removing the need to rent or wonder about safety gear
• Beautiful scenery both on the drive and on the glacier itself
• Delicious lunch with a view, adding to the overall value
• Consistently high reviews for professionalism and safety

Cons

• The price might seem steep for some, but many feel the experience justifies it
• The walk is about three miles, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children
• Cold weather gear is essential; you’ll need to come prepared with appropriate clothing
• Some reviews indicate that the drive is long, although scenic, which might be tiring for some travelers

Practical Tips for Your Glacier Adventure

• Dress in layers: thermal underwear, a warm coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof outerwear are recommended.
• Wear sturdy, stiff-soled footwear—no running shoes.
• Bring a full water bottle (single-use containers aren’t provided).
• Don’t forget sunglasses and a camera—the reflective ice can be bright, and the scenery is breathtaking.
• Book your tour well in advance, especially if visiting during peak season, as most travelers tend to plan about a month ahead.
• If you’re worried about cold hands or toes, hand and toe warmers can be a real comfort.

What Do Real Travelers Say?

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many mentioning the expert guides and stunning views. One reviewer raved about how their guides, Matt and Sean, were both very informative and friendly, making the day even more enjoyable. Others appreciated how safe and attentive guides made the glacier walk feel, especially for those who were initially hesitant.

A few noted that the lunch was surprisingly good, offering a nice break after a brisk hike. Several reviews also highlight how the experience feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially when walking across the glacier’s vast, shimmering ice fields.

A small number of reviews mention issues with guide communication, which suggests that experiences can vary depending on the guide and day. However, the company has shown a willingness to address concerns, and most reviewers agree the guides are knowledgeable and friendly.

Final Thoughts

The Matanuska Glacier Winter Tour offers an easy, safe, and spectacular way to see one of Alaska’s most iconic glaciers. With all logistics handled for you, it’s a good choice for travelers who want a memorable outdoor adventure without the fuss of planning every detail.

It’s perfect if you’re eager to stand on ice millions of years old, learn from local guides, and enjoy a day filled with stunning scenery. While the price may seem high, the included gear, transportation, and lunch help justify it—especially if glacier walking is on your Alaska bucket list.

If you’re comfortable with a moderate hike and want a guided, educational experience, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just remember to come prepared for the cold and book ahead to secure your place on this popular adventure.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years old, making it suitable for families with older children who can handle walking on uneven ice.

What should I wear?
Warm layered clothing, including thermal underwear, a winter coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof outerwear, is recommended. Sturdy, stiff-soled shoes are required for glacier walking.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Anchorage and hotel pickup are included, making the day stress-free for travelers.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including scenic drives, glacier exploration, and lunch.

Is the glacier walk safe?
Guides are experienced and safety-conscious, providing all necessary equipment like ice cleats. The walk is generally about two hours and is tailored to your group’s comfort level.

What is the maximum group size?
Tour groups are limited to 15 travelers to ensure a personal and engaging experience.

Can I book this tour in winter?
Absolutely. This is a winter-specific tour, running from November through March, when the glacier is especially stunning in the snow and ice.

If you’re looking for a memorable, guided adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with expert insights, the Matanuska Glacier Winter Tour offers an experience you won’t forget. Just prepare for the cold, book early, and get ready to walk on ice that’s thousands of years old.