Alaska Aurora | Anchorage Matanuska Glacier Hiking Experience

Anchorage , United States

Alaska Aurora | Anchorage Matanuska Glacier Hiking Experience

Active

5h - 7h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

In the morning, depart from the hotel and head to the breathtaking Matanuska Glacier, Alaska's largest accessible glacier, where you’ll enjoy a guided 2-hour walk on the ice. Stretching from the Chugach Mountains to the Glen Highway, this stunning glacier is a top attraction and offers an unforgettable hiking experience. Its position makes it a sunny spot even in winter, ideal for exploring the ice formations and stunning views. Formed over 10,000 years ago, the glacier has remained in its current position for the past two decades.

Tips for Your Visit:

Wear warm clothing, including a down jacket, fleece, hat, scarf, anti-slip boots, and sunglasses. Be mindful of foot safety on the ice.
Follow all instructions provided by the guide and ensure you sign the required park service disclaimer before starting the hike.
Complimentary walking gear, including helmets and anti-slip shoe chains, will be provided for a safe experience.

Available options

Tour with pickup(NAA-MATA)

Pickup included

What's included

Tour bus service, with the specific vehicle type determined by the size of the group.

Local bilingual guide/driver service (partial activities only provide English guide).

Attraction entrance fees noted in the itinerary.

Detailed itinerary

Itinerary: Anchorage – Matanuska Glacier – Anchorage (about 7-8 hours round trip, the duration time already included the roundtrip, lunch time, rest stops and attraction visit time)
In the morning, depart from hotel and travel to Matanuska Glacier, where you’ll take a walk on the glacier (about 2 hours) led by a professional guide. The Matanuska Glacier, Alaska's largest accessible glacier, covers an entire valley. Winding north from the Chugach Mountains to the Glen Highway, it is the most popular roadside attraction between Anchorage and Glenallen. About 10,000 years ago, the Matanuska Glacier began to retreat to its present position, and has not changed significantly in nearly two decades. It is ideal for glacier hiking as it tends to be sunnier than the surrounding area in winter.

Stop 2

The Matanuska Glacier, Alaska's largest accessible glacier, covers an entire valley.
Tips:

1. It is recommended to wear a warm down jacket, velvet jacket, hat, scarf, anti-ski boots, sunglasses, etc. , pay attention to the safety of your feet.

2. Be sure to comply with the guide requirements during the walk and sign the disclaimer required by the Park Service.

3. Free walking equipment such as helmets and non-slip shoe chains.

What's not included

Transportation to/from Alaska, and transportation within Alaska.

Meals，Food and Beverages

Any expenses are not listed in Fee Included.

Mandatory service fees for driver and tour guide on site(USD20 per person)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

In line with local customs, gratuities for your guide are appreciated as a gesture of respect and acknowledgment of their service quality. Please provide tips directly to your guide on the day of the tour to show your gratitude for their efforts and expertise.

Identification: Please bring a valid photo ID, such as a foreign passport with a U.S. visa or a U.S. driver’s license, for the tour.

Timing: If there is any discrepancy between the itinerary schedule and the time provided by your guide, please follow the guide’s instructions.

Winter Weather: Alaska can be extremely cold in winter. Please dress warmly and bring appropriate clothing, such as a down jacket, fleece, hat, scarf, traction boots, and sunglasses.

Minors: Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times or provide a disclaimer signed by their legal guardian.

Missed Tour Policy: If you are unable to meet your guide at the designated time and location due to personal reasons (including illness, accidents, or delays), and consequently miss the tour, we cannot issue a refund for that day’s tour.

Please provide us with your phone number at least 5 days ahead of your tour departure. Otherwise we will be unable to send you the final confirmation.

Arrival Instructions: Arrive at the pick-up location at least 10-15 minutes early. You can call us 1-2 days before the tour to confirm the pick-up time and location.

Unforeseen Circumstances: In case of unavoidable events (e.g., natural disasters, political or social issues, accidents, or road closures), the tour itinerary may need to be adjusted for the safety of all guests. This may include changes to the schedule, activities, or even cancellation of part or all of the tour. Refunds cannot be provided in such cases, and any additional costs (e.g., extended hotel stays, meals, transportation, or flight changes) will be the responsibility of the guests. Natural Disasters: Floods, earthquakes, hailstorms, snowstorms, tsunamis, etc. Political & Social Situations: War, government shutdowns, protests, regime or policy changes, terrorist attacks, etc.Accidents & Malfunctions: Vehicle breakdowns, equipment damage, traffic accidents, or road blockages. Road Closures: Impassable roads due to weather, accidents, or other issues.

Age and Safety: Customers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women may join if under 24 weeks by the trip's end.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes and clothes, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, and drinks for hydration.

Booking Details: Ensure all booking details (name, contact, flight info) are accurate. Errors will result in personal costs. A reachable phone number is required for safety and communication.

Pick-Up Location Policy：When booking, please select your pick-up hotel. If undecided, you may update your pick-up location later. However, you must contact us or update this information yourself at least 3 days before the tour date. Important: Failure to provide or update your pick-up location prior to the departure date may result in missing the tour. The company will not be responsible for missed tours, and any fees paid will not be refunded.

Tickets and Charges: Pre-purchased tickets or city passes are not accepted. Buy through us or via the guide. Group reservations recommended.

Itinerary Changes:Tour operator reserves the right to adjust the itinerary for smooth operations.

Tour Adjustments:The tour guide may alter schedules based on weather, traffic, or other conditions.

Parking: Parking is not available at the meeting point. Transportation to and from the departure location is not included.

Closed Attractions: If a scenic spot is closed, an alternative will be provided. COVID-19 may affect attraction hours and capacity.

Booster Seats: For state law, Children under the age of 6 require a booster seat in order to participate in the tour group. Please understand that the violations and fines are borne by the guests themselves. There is no need for a booster seat for bus travel on the day of travel.

Health Requirements: Guests with disabilities must provide advance notice. Wheelchair-accessible buses are not guaranteed without prior approval.

Terms and Conditions: Terms and conditions may change—check the product website for updates.The operator is not liable for damages unless required by law.

Leaving the Group: If leaving the group early, inform the tour guide and sign a departure form. No refunds for unused portions.

Gifts and Refunds: Gifts provided during the tour may change due to unforeseen factors like weather. Fees will not be refunded for changes.

Important notes

Please notify your order number or invoice number upon payment. Present your receipt and voucher upon check-in.

Please be aware, if you are not able to meet your guide at the appointed time and place due to personal reasons (including but not limited to illness, accidents, running late, etc.), and thus miss the chance to board the bus and cannot participate in the tour, we are afraid we cannot refund your fee for that day.

Please arrive at the pick-up location least 10 to 15 minutes early.

You may call us within 1 to 2 days of your tour to confirm the pick-up time and location.

Essential Information About Booking:Please provide us with your phone number at least 5 days ahead of your tour departure. Otherwise we will be unable to send you the final confirmation.

About Anchorage

Anchorage is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Alaska, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the 'City of Lights and Flowers,' it serves as the perfect gateway to the vast wilderness of the Last Frontier, with easy access to stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

A scenic 11-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Cook Inlet, wildlife, and the Chugach Mountains. Perfect for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

Nature 2-4 hours Free

Anchorage Museum

A premier cultural and historical museum showcasing Alaska's art, history, and indigenous cultures. Features a large collection of Alaska Native art and contemporary exhibits.

Museum 2-3 hours $20 for adults, discounts available

Chugach State Park

A vast state park offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning alpine scenery. Features over 495,000 acres of wilderness just minutes from downtown Anchorage.

Nature Half-day to full day Free

Alaska Native Heritage Center

A cultural center dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditions, history, and art of Alaska's indigenous peoples. Features live performances, cultural demonstrations, and exhibits.

Cultural 2-3 hours $25 for adults, discounts available

Flattop Mountain

A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Anchorage and the surrounding mountains. A moderate hike that is accessible year-round.

Adventure 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon

Fresh, wild-caught salmon is a staple of Alaskan cuisine, often grilled, smoked, or baked.

Main Dish Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

King Crab

Alaska is famous for its king crab, which is typically steamed or grilled and served with butter.

Main Dish Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Reindeer Sausage

A unique Alaskan specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.

Main Dish Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Baked Alaska

A classic dessert featuring layers of ice cream and cake, topped with meringue and torched.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Wildlife viewing Kayaking Dog sledding Spa treatments Scenic drives Picnicking

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Anchorage, offering the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours, known as the 'Midnight Sun.' This is the best time for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and exploring the city's attractions.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Tagalog, Other indigenous languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Anchorage is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime and theft can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise common sense and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you
• Use reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport • 12 km from city center

By bus

Downtown Anchorage Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The People Mover bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes covering most of the city. Buses are well-maintained and punctual.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Anchorage South Anchorage West Anchorage Midtown Anchorage

Day trips

Chugach National Forest

20 km from Anchorage • Half-day to full day

A vast national forest offering stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Girdwood and Alyeska Resort

40 km from Anchorage • Full day

A scenic mountain town and ski resort offering year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and the famous Alyeska Tram.

Whittier

80 km from Anchorage • Full day

A small town accessible by tunnel, offering stunning coastal scenery, wildlife viewing, and the start of the famous Prince William Sound cruise.

Festivals

Anchorage Fur Rendezvous • February Midnight Sun Festival • June Anchorage Market and Festival • May to September

Pro tips

Visit the Anchorage Museum for a comprehensive overview of Alaska's history and culture
Take a scenic flightseeing tour to fully appreciate the beauty of Alaska's landscapes
Go wildlife viewing in the early morning or late evening for the best chances of spotting animals
Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Anchorage can be unpredictable and change rapidly
Try local Alaskan cuisine, such as fresh seafood, wild game, and reindeer sausage