Alpine Hike on the Alyeska Glacier
Alpine Hike on the Alyeska Glacier
The Alyeska Glacier is nestled in Glacier Bowl of the Chugach Mountains. Overlooking breathtaking views of the Turnagain Arm and towering alpine peaks, you will be dazzled by traveling on a snow-covered glacier during the Alaskan Midnight Sun.
After meeting with your local guide, you will ride the Scenic Alyeska Tram up to 2,300 feet above sea level. From the upper mountain tram, you will set out in a group of no more than 5 guests per guide and hike a scenic ridge line, surrounded by the 7 glaciers of the Girdwood Valley and with outstanding views up to the glacier. You will be making photo and rest stops during the approximately 45 minute hike to the glacier. You will hike for a total of 2 hours and a distance of approximately 1 mile round trip from the upper tram station, with an 800 foot elevation gain.
At the glaciers' edge, gear up with helmets and crampons. After safety lessons and crampon practice, your group will travel onto the glacier with skilled and experienced glacier guides. You will learn about interesting local wildlife, history, and glaciology. Naturalist glacier guides will pace the trip to the groups' fitness level and desires.
After the hike, return to the upper tram station, from where you will descend back down to the hotel.
Please Note: Participants must arrive prepared. Guests must dress in warm synthetic clothes in multiple layers, the top layer being waterproof. Cotton clothes, including blue jeans, are not recommended. Long synthetic pants, a fleece jacket or thin mid layer, long wool socks, sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes, a warm hat, sunglasses, and gloves are required. Each guest should bring a backpack. Cameras and binoculars are strongly recommended.
All glacier hiking gear, trekking poles, bottled water, and a snack will be provided. The our operates in all weather conditions, at the discretion of the guide.