MCCARTHY HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Beneath Kennicott: A Private Ice‑Cave Exploration Out of McCarthy
A small-group, guided descent into the blue caverns under the Kennicott Glacier—this guide explains what to expect, who it suits, and the essential logistics.
Beneath Kennicott: A Private Ice‑Cave Exploration Out of McCarthy.
Set in the remote, glacier‑scoured landscape around McCarthy, this exclusive, privately guided outing leads small groups beneath the Kennicott Glacier to explore dramatic ice caves and other hidden glacial features—a multihour experience that delivers rare, otherworldly views of blue ice and sculpted passageways.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Interior Blue Ice and Sculpted Caverns
The core draw is the ice itself: layered, blue‑toned walls and carved passages exposed beneath the Kennicott Glacier that reveal the glacier’s structure and seasonal history.
Private, Small‑Group Experience
This offering is run as a private trip tailored to small parties, allowing for an intimate, flexible exploration of the caves under guided supervision.
A Compact, Multihour Excursion
Expect a concentrated excursion—long enough to reach and explore these ice features yet planned as a single, privately guided outing suitable for a half‑day in the field.
What the day feels like
What the Trip Feels Like
Guides lead a private group from the McCarthy area toward the Kennicott Glacier and into the caverns beneath it, spending several hours navigating lighted passages and viewpoints within the ice. The pace is deliberate—focused on close observation of formations, color, and texture—and the result is a compact, memorable immersion in glacial geology.
THE LANDSCAPE
Interior Blue Ice and Sculpted Caverns
The core draw is the ice itself: layered, blue‑toned walls and carved passages exposed beneath the Kennicott Glacier that reveal the glacier’s structure and seasonal history.
THE ACCESS
Private, Small‑Group Experience
This offering is run as a private trip tailored to small parties, allowing for an intimate, flexible exploration of the caves under guided supervision.
THE TIME COMMITMENT
A Compact, Multihour Excursion
Expect a concentrated excursion—long enough to reach and explore these ice features yet planned as a single, privately guided outing suitable for a half‑day in the field.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who it doesn’t.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Plan for a multihour outing; published duration falls in the half‑day range.
The operator provides specific gear guidance—check the operator’s trip page for required clothing and equipment before arriving.
This is a private‑only trip with set pricing by party size; confirm rates and reserve through the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the ice cave exploration?
The outing is a multihour excursion listed in the half‑day range.
Is this trip available as a group tour or private only?
This offering is private only.
What are the rates for the private trip?
Rates are tiered by party size: one person $420; two people $640; three people $660; four people $800; five people $925; six people $960 (total group rates).
Where does the trip take place?
The exploration is beneath the Kennicott Glacier in the McCarthy area of Alaska.
Who operates the trip?
The trip is operated by St. Elias Alpine Guides.
Are photos available to preview the trip?
The operator’s trip page includes photos showing the ice caves and the experience.