Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure from Seward — Harding Icefield Glacier Hike
Stand at the raw edge of the Harding Icefield and walk across Exit Glacier with a local guide. This full-day, eight-hour excursion from Seward combines glacier travel, geology lessons, and wilderness transport into a hands-on Alaska experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear sturdy waterproof boots
The guides provide crampons but not footwear; choose ankle-supporting, waterproof hiking boots to stay stable on mixed ice and moraine.
Pace your water intake
Cold air masks thirst—carry at least 1.5L and sip regularly to avoid fatigue at high exertion levels.
Bring UV protection
Glare off ice is intense even on overcast days—sunglasses and SPF lip/sunblock reduce glare-related headaches and burns.
Listen to your guide
Conditions on glaciers change rapidly; follow route instructions and rope-team procedures to minimize risk.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kenai Fjords Visitor Center viewpoint early morning for quiet sea otter watching
- •Short detour to the Exit Glacier Overlook for panoramic views of the glacier snout and moraine fields
Wildlife
- •Black bear
- •Mountain goat
Conservation Note
Glacial landscapes are sensitive; staying on guided routes, packing out trash, and avoiding disturbance of streambeds help minimize visitor impact.
Alutiiq communities have long used the Kenai Peninsula’s mixed marine and alpine resources; the Harding Icefield's outlets shaped seasonal travel and subsistence patterns.
Photographer's Notes
- • Edge of the moraine where trail meets ice
- • A guide-designated vantage above a crevasse (safe distance)
- • Exit Glacier Overlook trailhead for wide-angle vistas
What to Bring
Waterproof, ankle-supporting hiking bootsEssential
Keeps feet dry and provides the traction and support needed on moraine and icy surfaces.
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Protects from wind and sudden rain or spray from the icefield; layering underneath is critical.
Warm midlayer (fleece or down)Essential
Insulating layer that traps heat when winds off the icefield cool you rapidly.
Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreenEssential
Glacial glare can burn skin and eyes even on cloudy days—protect them.
Common Questions
Do I need previous glacier experience?
No—guides provide instruction and the necessary glacier travel equipment; however, you should be comfortable walking on uneven, slippery terrain and be in good physical condition.
What should I wear?
Layered clothing, waterproof shell, warm midlayer, and sturdy waterproof boots with ankle support; bring gloves and a hat for wind.
Is transportation included?
Yes—round-trip ground transportation from Seward to the park is included; pick-up times vary and will be confirmed after booking.
Are children allowed?
Minors must be accompanied by an adult; policies around minimum age can vary so check with the operator before booking.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours generally proceed in variable weather, but guides will modify routes or cancel for unsafe ice conditions; the cancellation policy allows a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.
Will I see wildlife on this trip?
You may see forest and shoreline species—black bears, eagles, and marine mammals offshore—but glacier travel focuses on ice features rather than abundant wildlife viewing.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Participants should have a high level of fitness, comfortable with sustained uphill sections, uneven terrain, and several hours of steady exertion.
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