From Kennicott: Glacier Hike in St. Elias National Park

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Nestled amidst the towering peaks of Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Kennicott serves as the starting point for an unforgettable glacier adventure. Lace up your boots and join a small group of explorers as you venture onto the icy expanse, discovering stunning ice caves, turquoise pools, and thundering waterfalls. With the guidance of an experienced, English-speaking leader, you’ll navigate the glacier’s serene beauty, using crampons to ensure a safe and unforgettable journey. What lies beyond the glacier’s edge, however, is a mystery waiting to be unraveled.

Good To Know

  • Guided 8-hour glacier hike from Kennicott, exploring stunning landscapes including blue pools, ice caves, canyons, and waterfalls in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
  • Personalized experience for up to 6 participants with an English-speaking guide, tailored to group interests and abilities.
  • Breathtaking views of 16,390-foot Mt. Blackburn and 7,000-foot Stairway Icefall, accessed by traversing deep canyons and navigating waterfalls and crevasses.
  • Comprehensive gear orientation before the hike, and flexibility in scheduling to suit participants’ schedules.
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the hike, with "reserve now & pay later" booking option for convenience.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Embark on an exhilarating glacier hike through the breathtaking landscapes of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, starting from the historic town of Kennicott.

This small-group experience, limited to just 6 participants, promises an unforgettable adventure. Your English-speaking guide will lead you on an 8-hour journey, providing personalized guidance tailored to the group’s interests and abilities.

Traverse the glacier’s surface, using crampons to explore hidden gems like blue pools, ice caves, deep canyons, and thundering waterfalls. Marvel at the towering 16,390-foot Mt. Blackburn and the 7,000-foot Stairway Icefall as you discover the park’s natural wonders.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this glacier hike offers flexibility and an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the untamed wilderness of Alaska.

Cost and Booking

The cost of this glacier hike experience starts from Kč3,492 per person. Booking this adventure is a breeze, with a "reserve now & pay later" option available.

Prospective hikers can also check the availability of starting times to find the perfect fit for their schedule.

  • Explore the stunning Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and venture onto the glacier’s surface.

  • Discover hidden gems like blue pools, ice caves, and towering waterfalls, all while taking in the breathtaking views of Mt. Blackburn and the Stairway Icefall.

  • Enjoy a personalized experience with a small group of no more than 6 participants, led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.

Experience Highlights

Hikers will hike on the glacier using crampons, unlocking access to a world of stunning natural wonders. They’ll explore ethereal blue pools, ice caves, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls. Towering above will be the 16,390-foot Mt. Blackburn and the 7,000-foot Stairway Icefall, providing a breathtaking backdrop. The personalized guidance of the experienced tour guide will ensure the route is tailored to the group’s interests and abilities, creating an unforgettable adventure.

DiscoverExplore
Blue PoolsIce Caves
Deep CanyonsWaterfalls

Itinerary Details

To begin the glacier hike, participants gather for a brief orientation where they receive their specialized gear.

The guide then leads the group across the glacier’s frozen surface, revealing a world of hidden wonders:

  • Traversing deep canyons carved by meltwater streams
  • Exploring enchanting ice caves, their walls shimmering with azure hues
  • Peering into turquoise pools that mirror the towering peaks above

With expert navigation, the group discovers cascading waterfalls, jagged crevasses, and the majestic 7,000-foot Stairway Icefall.

Throughout the journey, the guide tailors the route to the group’s interests and abilities, ensuring an unforgettable adventure on the glacier.

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What to Bring

For the glacier hike, travelers should pack a few essential items.

Sunglasses and a hat are crucial to shield the eyes from the sun’s glare reflecting off the ice. A camera is a must to capture the stunning scenery, from the deep blue pools to the towering waterfalls.

Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction will provide the support needed to traverse the rugged glacier terrain. Additional layers, like a rain jacket, are advisable to stay dry and comfortable.

Don’t forget to bring plenty of food and drinks to stay energized. Applying biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent will also help ensure a pleasant and safe hiking experience.

Getting to Kennicott

The journey to Kennicott, the starting point for this glacier hike, is an adventure in itself. Nestled deep within the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, this remote former mining town can only be accessed through a series of thrilling transportation options:

  • Scenic flight over the rugged mountains and glaciers
  • Exhilarating shuttle ride along the historic Kennecott Glacier Trail
  • Challenging hike through the pristine wilderness

Once you arrive in Kennicott, you’ll be greeted by a small but vibrant community, serving as the perfect gateway to explore the park’s awe-inspiring glacial landscapes.

From here, the excitement of your glacier hike begins, taking you on an unforgettable journey through this untamed, icy wonderland.

Group Size and Language

Although the glacier hike is limited to just 6 participants, it offers a truly intimate and personalized experience.

With a small group size, you’ll enjoy the undivided attention of the knowledgeable, English-speaking guide. They’ll tailor the excursion to your interests and abilities, ensuring you make the most of your time on the glacier.

Whether it’s exploring hidden ice caves, traversing deep crevasses, or marveling at towering waterfalls, the guide will lead you on an unforgettable adventure.

This exclusive experience allows you to learn about the breathtaking landscapes of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, away from the crowds.

Cancellation Policy

As per the offering, a free cancellation option is available up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled glacier hike. This policy provides flexibility for adventurers, ensuring they can adjust their plans without incurring additional costs.

The cancellation policy also highlights the small group nature of the experience, allowing the tour operator to effectively manage the group size and maintain a personalized, intimate atmosphere.

Plus, the availability of a "reserve now & pay later" option further enhances the accessibility and convenience of the glacier hike, making it an appealing choice for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.

  • Flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
  • Small group size maintained through cancellation policy
  • "Reserve now & pay later" option for added convenience

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear?

Absolutely! Guests are welcome to bring their own trekking gear, such as hiking shoes, gaiters, and hiking poles, to ensure maximum comfort and support during the glacier hike. The tour guide will provide all necessary safety equipment.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement?

The glacier hike experience doesn’t have a strict minimum age, but children under 12 aren’t recommended due to the challenging terrain and specialized gear required. The tour guide can advise on age-appropriateness based on the group’s overall fitness and abilities.

What Is the Skill Level Needed for This Hike?

This glacier hike is designed for adventurous souls with moderate hiking experience. It’s not overly strenuous, but participants should be comfortable navigating uneven terrain and equipped to handle the dynamic glacier environment using provided crampons and safety gear.

Can I Modify the Route During the Hike?

The experienced guide can adapt the route during the hike based on the group’s interests and abilities, allowing adventurers to explore hidden gems like blue pools, ice caves, and cascading waterfalls along the glacier’s surface.

Will There Be Opportunities to Rest During the Hike?

Yes, the guided glacier hike allows for periodic rest breaks during the excursion. The experienced tour guide tailors the pace and route to the group’s abilities, ensuring everyone can catch their breath and take in the stunning glacial vistas.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable glacier adventure in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, where towering peaks and stunning landscapes provide a breathtaking backdrop. Explore ice caves, turquoise pools, and cascading waterfalls while navigating the glacier with personalized guidance from an expert. This extraordinary experience promises an unforgettable journey through one of Alaska’s most pristine wilderness areas.

You can check if your dates are available here: