WILLOW AIR ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Three Days on the Denali Ice: Snowmobiling to Maclaren Glacier under the Northern Lights
A guided 3-day, 2-night snowmobile expedition out of Willow that pairs long backcountry runs and glacier travel with cozy lodge nights and the chance to see the aurora.
Three Days on the Denali Ice: Snowmobiling to Maclaren Glacier under the Northern Lights.
Over three days you’ll cut across wide, glacier-carved valleys of the Alaska Range on stout snowmobiles, ride into remote icefields and sleep at a backcountry lodge—guided rides, comfortable lodging, and the possibility of Northern Lights combine to make this a compact but decidedly wild winter escape.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Maclaren Glacier and Glacier-Edge Riding
On day two the route reaches Maclaren Glacier, where guided machines bring riders up onto the ice to study frozen formations and wide gleaming expanses of glacier terrain.
Lodge Evenings with Northern Lights Possibility
Evenings at Alpine Creek Lodge are relaxed affairs—hot meals and a wood fire, with opportunities to step outside and watch for the Northern Lights when conditions align.
Long Backcountry Runs Through the Alaska Range
The itinerary includes long mileage over two days—a roughly 70-mile first-day push into the range and a 60-mile round trip on day two—covering open powder fields, wide valleys and backcountry terrain under guide supervision.
What the day feels like
What the three-day journey feels like
The trip unfolds as a deliberate push into winter backcountry: a morning check-in and gear fitting, a two-hour van transfer to a trailhead, then long guided runs across valley floors and up toward glacial ice, nights at a remote lodge, and a return ride with fresh snow and views of Denali if the sky is clear.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Participants are fitted with winter riding gear during check-in; be prepared for multi-day backcountry winter conditions and the operator will supply necessary riding equipment fittings.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
This is a 3-day, 2-night glacier snowmobile adventure.
When is the tour available?
Tours operate February through April, subject to seasonal weather conditions.
What are the age and driver requirements?
Drivers must be 18 years or older and licensed; passengers must be 12 years or older. Minors aged 12 and up must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
What does the price include and how much is it?
The tour rate is $2,995 per guest.
What is the check-in and schedule on day one?
Check-in at Willow Headquarters begins at 9:00 a.m.; after gear fitting and guide introductions you'll transfer by van to the trailhead to begin the ride.
What is the cancellation and rescheduling policy?
Cancellation 7–13 days before the tour receives a 50% refund less fees; cancellations under 7 days are not refundable. You may reschedule once at no cost, subject to availability; cancellations by the operator for weather or force majeure result in a full refund.
When does the tour typically return to Willow?
The tour wraps up with a van ride back to Willow HQ, typically arriving around 3:00 p.m. on the final day.