A Traveler's Guide to Glaciers in Alaska

Visitors from all over the world are attracted to Alaska to see breathtaking views of towering glaciers and the surrounding icy seas. Alaska is home to thousands of glaciers, over 600 of which are named. Seeing these colossal masses of ice is one of the most sought-after experiences for locals and travelers alike. You can see glaciers across the state by road, rail, water, and air. Some are accessible for exploration, while others provide stunning long-distance photo opportunities and an unforgettable experience. Whether your plans include glacier trekking, hiking, or taking photos of these impressive icy walls, learning more about Alaska's glaciers will enhance your vacation. 

Understanding Alaska's Glaciers

Alaska's glaciers are one of the world's most treasured natural wonders. Glacier excursions are most commonly enjoyed during the summer and early months of fall. Many are easily accessible by road, providing hiking and glacier trekking access. When abundance is your goal, flightseeing, cruise ship, and traveling by railroad offer opportunities to see several glaciers in a single trip. 

Popular Glaciers Around Anchorage to Visit

Anchorage is Alaska's biggest city, making it a popular choice for vacationers. The city's location is also ideal for visiting some of Alaska's most popular glaciers. Whether you're traveling by road, air, or water, any of these popular glaciers is an ideal destination. 

• Matanuska Glacier: Viewing this spectacular 27-mile-long ice mass is well worth the two-hour drive from Anchorage along the scenic Glenn Highway. One of the most picturesque places in North America, the Matanuska Glacier is accessible through guided tours that allow visitors to walk, hike, and climb the ice. Tours are offered year-round and are popular among all types of visitors, from inexperienced hikers to experienced glacier trekkers. 

• Prince William Sound: Day cruises are a popular way for visitors to explore the many glaciers along Prince William Sound. Only 90 minutes from Anchorage, Prince William Sound has the most tidewater glaciers of any place on earth. Some of the most renowned include the Surprise Glacier and Harvard Glacier, where views of glacier calving are common.

• Knik Glacier: This massive glacier is viewable from flightseeing tours out of the Chugach Mountains. Knik Glacier spans an impressive 25 miles and is 400 feet tall, with a five-mile wide face and daily calving. Flights are as short as 90 minutes, and longer flights allow for landing on the glacier for photo opportunities and exploration. 

• Spencer Glacier: Set between Anchorage and Denali, Spencer Glacier is only accessible by rail. Visitors can float next to the ice on a guided raft trip or hike the glacier's 2.6- or 6.8-mile trails. However, you only have two hours for exploration before catching the train for your return trip.

• Portage Valley: Only an hour's drive from Anchorage, Portage Valley is a gorgeous alpine valley dotted with ancient ice formations. There are several glaciers in the valley, the most impressive being the six-mile-long Portage Glacier that towers 100 feet over an icy lake. The valley is accessible by bus or car, and lake tours are available.

Phillips Cruises & Tours Glacier Cruise

Day cruises are one of the most popular ways for visitors to get a close-up view of multiple glaciers in a single afternoon. Phillips Cruises and Tours, LLC offers two Prince William Sound glacier cruises. The 26 Glacier Cruise explores 130 miles of Prince William Sound, allowing passengers to see 26 glaciers in five hours.  The shorter Glacier Quest Cruise travels 45 miles and features 10 7 glaciers. Both cruises include a complimentary hot meal and professional narration by the Captain. Day cruises allow visitors to see many glaciers, witness calving, and catch glimpses of wildlife in the sea and along the shore.

Book Your Room Today!

With hundreds of glaciers to explore, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy sightseeing and adventure during your Alaska vacation. When planning your Alaska adventure, you'll need a cozy place to relax and rejuvenate between adventures. The Historic Anchorage Hotel is the ideal place to make your home away from home while visiting Alaska, and you receive a special discount on Phillips Cruises & Tours glacier cruises with your stay. With 26 elegantly furnished rooms, an event space, and superior service, the hotel is perfect for all types of travelers. Book a room today and start planning your unforgettable Alaska glacier exploration vacation. 

Featured Image: Laurie Gronewold / Shutterstock