Snowshoe Hike to Castner Glacier Ice Cave
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime, family friendly experience as we guide you inside Castner Ice Cave in the heart of one of Alaska's famed glaciers! We will drive from Fairbanks, passing open tundra with herds of caribou, the Trans-Alaskan pipeline, and on clear days we can see the stunning Alaska Mountain Range.
Once we arrive at the glacier area we will gear up with snowshoes or ice cleats for your boots before heading out on a guided 1.5 mile hike to the Ice Cave!
We will learn about the history of glaciers in Alaska, geology, local history, and much more as we embark out to an ice cave so large that we can all walk inside! This will no doubt be an adventure to bring home and tell your friends and family about.
Licensed by Bureau of Land Management, Department of the Interior permit #2025-00551
Available options
Snowshoe Hike to Castner Glacier Ice Cave
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Snacks
Snowshoes (optional)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Trekking Poles
Ice Cleats
Detailed itinerary
1
Our starting point is in Fairbanks, AK. Travel south for the journey to the Ice Cave.
2
After gearing up at the trailhead, we step onto the glacier and begin our hike, trekking a little over a mile across the ice to reach the cave.
3
We find ourselves inside the glacier as we enter the Ice Cave. We will have time to explore, take photos of the glowing ice formations, and enjoy a snack while surrounded by the frozen wonderland.
4
Quick Pit Stop for restroom and snacks. This is also the final junction for the great AlCan highway where you will learn about the history and storied highway.
5
Keep an eye out for Santa Claus' year-round home, where the elves stay busy preparing for Christmas! You'll see festive decorations, candy cane streetlights, and maybe even catch a glimpse of Santa’s workshop as we drive by.
6
Sit back and relax while taking in the final views of Alaska’s stunning landscapes. We’ll return to our starting point, with convenient drop-offs available at your hotel or the original meeting location.
What's not included
We will have snacks and water bottles. You may bring your own lunch or purchase at Delta Junction where there is a grocery store and Subway on way to glacier
Winter Shoes/Boots - Required
Winter Gear: Please dress accordingly
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
10 reviews
5★
10
4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
We will meet in the parking lot in front of the "Outdoor" sign facing the left side of the building at 8:30am. Please be patient as sometimes other pickups cause delays but we will try to be prompt. If you are staying at a major hotel in Fairbanks we will pick up there.
About Fairbanks
Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich gold rush history, and unique subarctic climate. It's a gateway to extraordinary experiences like the Northern Lights, world-class fishing, and a vibrant arts scene. Fairbanks offers a blend of rugged wilderness and charming small-town atmosphere, making it a must-visit for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
Chena Hot Springs
A popular destination for soaking in natural hot springs, Chena Hot Springs is located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The resort offers a variety of activities, including aurora viewing, dog sledding, and ice museum tours.
Nature
Full day
Moderate to Expensive
Museum of the North
Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, this museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Alaska. Exhibits include wildlife dioramas, Native Alaskan artifacts, and contemporary art.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate
Fairbanks Arctic Warfare Training Center
This historic site offers a glimpse into the military history of Fairbanks, with exhibits on the Arctic warfare training that took place during World War II and the Cold War.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to Low
Pioneer Park
A 44-acre park featuring historic buildings, museums, and recreational facilities. It's a great place to learn about Fairbanks' gold rush history and enjoy outdoor activities.
Historical/Entertainment
2-3 hours
Free to Low
Mosquito Lake
A popular spot for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species and is a great place to see moose, bears, and other wildlife.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salmon
Freshly caught Alaskan salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a must-try dish in Fairbanks.
Main Course
Gluten-free, high in protein
Reindeer Sausage
A local specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.
Main Course
Gluten-free, high in protein
Bannock
A traditional Alaskan bread made with flour, water, and sometimes berries or other ingredients.
Bread
Vegetarian, can be vegan if made without dairy
Akutaq
Also known as Eskimo ice cream, this traditional dish is made with whipped fat, berries, and sometimes fish or other ingredients.
Dessert
Vegetarian, high in fat
Popular Activities
Hiking
Dog sledding
Snowmobiling
Whitewater rafting
Soaking in hot springs
Scenic drives
Wildlife viewing
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Fairbanks for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the midnight sun. The weather is mild, and most attractions are open.
5°C to 25°C
41°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- 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
Fairbanks is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in the winter.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities
- • Carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness
Getting there
By air
- Fairbanks International Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from city center
By train
Fairbanks Depot
By bus
Fairbanks Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses run on a regular schedule, but service may be limited in the winter.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Fairbanks
College Area
Chena Ridge
Day trips
Denali National Park
120 miles (193 km) • Full day
Denali National Park is home to North America's tallest peak and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.
Arctic Circle
115 miles (185 km) north of Fairbanks • Full day
The Arctic Circle is a symbolic line of latitude that marks the northernmost point where the sun is visible at the winter solstice.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
250 miles (402 km) southeast of Fairbanks • Overnight
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the United States and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Festivals
World Ice Art Championships • March
Midnight Sun Festival • June
Fairbanks Fur Rendezvous • February
Pro tips
- Visit in the summer to experience the midnight sun and enjoy outdoor activities
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the winter
- Try local cuisine, including fresh seafood and Alaskan specialties
- Be bear aware and carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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