SEWARD HIKING FIELD GUIDE
On the Ice at Exit Glacier: A Close-Up Trek Through Kenai Fjords’ Blue Realm
A practical guide to the guided Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure out of Seward — what to expect on the ice, what to pack, and who should (and shouldn’t) sign up.
On the Ice at Exit Glacier: A Close-Up Trek Through Kenai Fjords’ Blue Realm.
The Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure takes you from Seward into the heart of Kenai Fjords National Park to walk across ancient glacier ice. Guided teams lead small groups over blue ice, crevasses, and meltwater channels while interpreting the glacier’s geology, movement, and ecology.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hike Across Ancient, Blue Glacier Ice
Participants traverse Exit Glacier’s dynamic surface — an otherworldly mix of blue ice, crevasses and meltwater streams — for direct, up-close views of glacial geology and form.
Panoramic Views of Kenai Fjords and Surrounding Peaks
The route opens frequent vistas onto the surrounding mountains and the greater Kenai Fjords landscape, providing abundant photo opportunities from the glacier surface.
Expert-Led, Small-Group Ice Hiking with Safety Gear
Professional glacier guides equip and lead small groups, supplying specialized gear such as crampons, helmets and trekking poles, and delivering interpretive insights about the glacier and climate impacts.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
The adventure begins with a check-in in Seward and a short transfer to the Exit Glacier trailhead; after gearing up and a safety briefing, you step onto the glacier and walk across undulating ice fields and between blue-ice features. Guides punctuate the hike with geological and ecological interpretation while the group navigates uneven, icy terrain before returning to Seward by the provided round-trip transport.
THE LANDSCAPE
Hike Across Ancient, Blue Glacier Ice
Participants traverse Exit Glacier’s dynamic surface — an otherworldly mix of blue ice, crevasses and meltwater streams — for direct, up-close views of glacial geology and form.
THE VISTAS
Panoramic Views of Kenai Fjords and Surrounding Peaks
The route opens frequent vistas onto the surrounding mountains and the greater Kenai Fjords landscape, providing abundant photo opportunities from the glacier surface.
THE GUIDES
Expert-Led, Small-Group Ice Hiking with Safety Gear
Professional glacier guides equip and lead small groups, supplying specialized gear such as crampons, helmets and trekking poles, and delivering interpretive insights about the glacier and climate impacts.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Dress in layers, bring a waterproof jacket and pants, sturdy broken-in hiking boots (required for crampons), a daypack with snacks and water, sunglasses and sunscreen, and a camera. Cash or Venmo is suggested for guide gratuities.
Professional glacier guides, round-trip transportation from Seward to the trailhead, specialized glacier gear including crampons, helmets and trekking poles, and safety equipment and interpretive guidance.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is specialized glacier gear provided?
Yes — the tour includes specialized gear such as crampons, helmets, and trekking poles for safe glacier navigation.
Where do we meet and how do we get to the glacier?
The meeting location is in Seward; round-trip transportation to the Exit Glacier trailhead and back is provided as part of the tour.
Are there bathrooms on the glacier?
No — there are no bathroom facilities on the glacier; facilities are available before departure and after the hike.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 12 years old; anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
What happens in bad weather?
The tour operates rain or shine; participants should dress for unpredictable Alaskan weather.
Do I need prior glacier experience?
No prior glacier experience is required, but participants should be prepared for moderate to strenuous hiking on uneven and icy terrain.