A Travel Guide to Exit Glacier
Located in Kenai Fjords National Park near Seward, Alaska, Exit Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the United States, offering visitors a chance to witness the raw beauty of glacial landscapes up close. Fed by the massive 700-square-mile Harding Icefield, this glacier is a striking example of nature’s power and a poignant reminder of climate change, as it has been retreating rapidly. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk, a challenging hike, or an adventure on the ice, Exit Glacier is a must-visit destination. Here’s a comprehensive guide to plan your trip.
Why Visit Exit Glacier?
Exit Glacier is a highlight of Kenai Fjords National Park, named for its role as the exit point for the first recorded crossing of the Harding Icefield in 1968. Its accessibility by road—unique in the park—makes it ideal for travelers of all ages and fitness levels. The glacier’s vivid blue ice, surrounded by lush forests and rugged mountains, creates a dramatic setting. Trails range from easy, wheelchair-accessible paths to strenuous hikes with panoramic views of the icefield. The glacier’s rapid retreat (187 feet from 2013–2014 alone) also offers a sobering look at climate change, with markers showing its historical extent. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or adventure seeker, Exit Glacier delivers an unforgettable Alaskan experience.
How to Get There
Exit Glacier is just 12 miles from Seward, Alaska, and about 125 miles (2.5 hours) from Anchorage, making it an easy day trip.
From Anchorage: By Car: Drive south on the Seward Highway (AK-1, then AK-9) for about 2.5 hours (125 miles). At mile marker 3.7 in Seward, turn west onto Herman Leirer Road (also called Exit Glacier Road) and drive 8.4 miles to the Exit Glacier Nature Center parking lot. The scenic drive offers stunning views of mountains and Resurrection Bay. By Train: Take the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic from Anchorage to Seward (4.5 hours, round-trip ~$150–$200). From Seward, rent a car or take a shuttle to the glacier. By Bus: Tour companies like Major Marine Tours offer day trips from Anchorage, including transportation and guided glacier visits (~$200–$250).
From Seward: By Car: From downtown Seward, drive 12 miles (15–20 minutes) via Exit Glacier Road to the parking lot. By Shuttle: Exit Glacier Shuttle offers hourly round-trip service from Seward for $20, departing from their office. Book in advance during peak season.
By Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Taxis or Didi are available but costlier (~$30–$50 one way).
Note: The road to Exit Glacier is closed to cars from mid-November to early May due to snow but remains open for winter activities like snowmobiling or cross-country skiing. Check road conditions on the National Park Service website.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day, late May–early September): The ideal time, with temperatures of 50–70°F, longer daylight, and open facilities (Nature Center, ranger-led tours). Trails are snow-free, and the glacier is most accessible.
Spring (April–May): Cooler (25–45°F) with potential snow on trails, but fewer crowds. The road may still be closed, requiring a ski or snowshoe approach.
Fall (September–October): Vibrant autumn colors and fewer visitors, but temperatures drop (30–50°F), and rain is common. The Nature Center may close by late September.
Winter (November–March): The road is closed to cars, but the area is open for winter sports. Expect cold (10–30°F) and limited services.
Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially in summer. Bring rain gear, as Seward is prone to wet weather.
Tickets and Fees
Entrance Fee: Free! No fee is required to visit Exit Glacier or Kenai Fjords National Park’s road-accessible area.
Guided Tours: Optional tours (hiking, ice climbing) cost $70–$210 per person, depending on the activity and duration. Book through operators like Exit Glacier Guides or Adventure Sixty North.
Parking: Free at the Exit Glacier Nature Center lot, but spaces fill quickly in summer. Arrive early or use the shuttle.
What to See and Do
Glacier View Loop Trail (1 mile, easy, wheelchair-accessible): A flat, paved trail through a cottonwood forest to a panoramic view of Exit Glacier. Ideal for families, kids, and those with mobility challenges. Takes 30–45 minutes. Markers along the trail show the glacier’s retreat over time. Tip: Download the Alaska App for a self-guided audio tour narrated by a park ranger.
Glacier Overlook Trail (2.2 miles round-trip, easy to moderate): Extends from the Glacier View Loop, with a 330–400 ft elevation gain and some steeper sections. Offers a closer view of the glacier’s face. Takes 1–1.5 hours. Note: The trail ends at a roped-off area; the glacier’s toe is closed to visitors for safety due to unstable ice and water flow.
Harding Icefield Trail (8.2 miles round-trip, strenuous): A challenging 3,000 ft ascent alongside the glacier to a breathtaking overlook of the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield. Takes 6–8 hours. Expect steep terrain, possible snow, and wildlife (bears, moose). Suitable for fit hikers with sturdy boots and layers. Ranger-Led Hike: A guided 3–4-hour hike to Marmot Meadows (partway up) is offered daily at 9 AM in summer. Free, but check availability at the Nature Center.
Guided Glacier Adventures: Ice Hiking/Climbing: Exit Glacier Guides offers 4–6-hour tours ($130–$210) for ice hiking or introductory ice climbing on the glacier’s surface. No experience needed; equipment (crampons, helmets) provided. A 1.5-hour hike to the ice is required. Heli-Hiking: For a premium experience ($400+), take a helicopter or ski plane to the Harding Icefield, followed by a guided hike on the ice. Includes stunning flightseeing over Resurrection Valley. Safety Note: Glacier hiking without a guide is prohibited due to crevasses and unstable ice. Always use reputable operators with trained guides.
Ranger-Led Walks: Free 1–2-hour walks at 10 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, and 2 PM daily in summer, starting at the Nature Center. Learn about glaciology, flora, and climate change. A 20–30-minute “Ranger Talk” is also offered at 12:30 PM at the Exit Glacier Pavilion.
Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for black bears, grizzlies, moose, mountain goats, and birds. Carry bear spray, hike in groups, and make noise to avoid encounters.
Where to Eat
On-Site: No food services are available at Exit Glacier. Pack a picnic or snacks to enjoy at the Nature Center or trail viewpoints. Bring water, as none is available beyond the parking lot.
In Seward: Return to Seward (15–20 minutes) for dining options: Chinooks Waterfront Restaurant: Fresh seafood with bay views (~$20–$40 per person). Seward Brewing Company: Casual pub fare (~$15–$25). Zudy’s Cafe: Budget-friendly sandwiches and coffee (~$10–$15).
Tip: Stop at a grocery store in Seward (e.g., Safeway) for picnic supplies before heading to the glacier.
Where to Stay
Camping: Exit Glacier Campground: A tent-only, first-come, first-served site (12 sites, free) 0.5 miles from the parking lot. Walk-in only; sites fill quickly in summer. No reservations.
Seward Accommodations: Seward Windsong Lodge: A comfortable resort with glacier views, 10 minutes from Exit Glacier (~$150–$250/night). Hotel Seward: Historic downtown hotel, budget-friendly (~$100–$150/night). Harbor 360 Hotel: Modern, waterfront option (~$200–$300/night).
Anchorage: For day-trippers, hotels like Hilton Anchorage ($150–$250/night) or budget hostels ($50–$80/night) are viable.
Booking Tip: Reserve lodging 3–6 months in advance for summer, as Seward fills up quickly. Use Booking.com or Alaska.org for deals.
Tips for a Great Visit
Dress in Layers: Weather is unpredictable (30–70°F in summer). Bring waterproof jackets, sturdy hiking boots, and warm layers for the Harding Icefield Trail. Bear Safety: Carry bear spray ($40–$50, available at Exit Glacier Guides in Seward), know how to use it, and hike in groups.
Bug Protection: Mosquitoes are common; bring repellent or netting. Check Conditions: Confirm road and trail status on www.nps.gov/kefj, especially for the Harding Icefield Trail, which may close due to snow or avalanche risk.
Respect Barriers: Stay behind ropes and signs near the glacier’s toe to avoid dangerous ice and water. Combine Your Trip: Pair your visit with Seward’s Alaska SeaLife Center, a Kenai Fjords boat tour, or kayaking in Resurrection Bay for a full Alaska experience.
Final Thoughts
Exit Glacier is a breathtaking destination that showcases Alaska’s wild beauty and the fragile nature of its glaciers. From easy trails with stunning views to thrilling ice-climbing adventures, there’s something for everyone. The glacier’s retreat serves as a stark reminder of climate change, making now the time to visit before it recedes further. Plan ahead, pack appropriately, and immerse yourself in the majesty of Kenai Fjords National Park.
Happy exploring!
