ANCHORAGE SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Across Blue Ice: A Private Small‑Group Traverse of the Matanuska Glacier
An eight‑hour, small‑group outing from Anchorage that pairs a scenic drive along the Glenn Highway with guided glacier walking, on‑ice equipment and a lakeside lunch.
Across Blue Ice: A Private Small‑Group Traverse of the Matanuska Glacier.
Set against the Chugach Mountains, the Matanuska Glacier is one of Alaska’s most dramatic and accessible ice fields; this private small‑group tour escorts you there from Anchorage for an eight‑hour day of scenic driving, guided ice walking and close‑up views of ancient blue ice.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Alaska’s largest road‑accessible glacier
Matanuska stretches for miles across the Chugach—27 miles long and 4 miles wide—and offers some of the most accessible glacial ice in the state for on‑foot exploration and photography.
A scenic approach along the Glenn Highway
The day begins with a scenic drive on the Glenn Highway, with mountain vistas and planned photo stops as you travel from Anchorage toward the glacier.
Guided ice walking tailored to your group
Small groups are fitted with helmets and ice cleats for a guided walk on the glacier—typically about two hours on ice and roughly three miles of walking—led and customized by a professional Alaskan guide.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You leave Anchorage in the morning for a scenic drive, pause for mountain views, then descend to the toe of Matanuska where guides fit you with helmets and cleats. Over the course of the day the group spends time walking the glacier, photographing its blue ice and crevasse textures, then breaks for lunch at a nearby eatery with glacier views before returning in the late afternoon.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Participants are required to wear sturdy, stiff‑soled footwear for glacier walking.
All glacier equipment is supplied; the tour also includes snacks, bottled water and lunch at a local eatery.
Dress in layers and bring outerwear suitable for cold, windy conditions on the ice; sturdy footwear is mandatory.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour is an eight‑hour outing.
When do tours depart and return?
Tours generally depart between 7:30 and 8:00 AM and return between 4:00 and 5:00 PM; the guide will contact you between 7:00 and 7:15 AM with your exact pick‑up time.
Is hotel pick‑up available?
Hotel pick‑up and drop‑off are available for Anchorage hotel locations only; pick‑up is not provided from private residences or Alyeska Resort.
What are the group size and pricing details?
The Small Group tour is designed for groups of up to six people; rates start at $1,395 per group plus $195 per person. If your group is larger than six people, you should book the Large Group tour.
What are the age and participant minimums?
The minimum age to join the tour is 5 years old, and the operator requires at least two guests to run a tour.
Is gear provided and what should I wear?
All glacier equipment is provided; guests must wear sturdy, stiff‑soled footwear. Snacks, bottled water and lunch are included.
Are gratuities included?
Gratuities for guides are not included in the tour cost; a 10% tip per person is recommended.