Matanuska Glacier
If you look closely you can see a few people standing at the right side of pool of water in the middle of the photo - perspective on just how large and impressive this sheet of ice really is!
The Matanuska Glacier is on our list of local places we like to take family and friends that come to visit, and for good reason. The good vibes begin even before you arrive. The winding drive 50 miles north on the Glenn Highway from Palmer (or 102 miles from Anchorage) will take you past stunning river valleys and the impressive Chugach range, with plenty of scenic pullouts for photos along the way. You’ll also pass through the small community of Sutton, which has seen the worst of the braided Matanuska River’s erosion, where several homes have been carried off down the river in recent years and more are on the brink. There are a couple of overlooks of the glacier (at miles 101 and 103) from which you can get a good view of the glacier valley, but if you really want the full experience you’ll have to pay a $30 fee (per person) at the privately owned access road. The first time we were here we were stingy and opted out (naively thinking it wasn’t worth it or we could get there on our own – you can’t, we tried), but it really is worth the money, even if the proprietors seem less than excited to have your business.
Views of King Mountain and the Matanuska River from the road.
Depending on the time of year (and glacial stability) you can explore the glacier on your own, or venture out with a guide. Safe or recommended routes are marked. We have found that the benefit of going with a guide is that you can visit some pretty cool ice caves you may not otherwise see, and you get free use of Xtratuf boots and Yaktrax – a real benefit in the ice and sticky glacial mud.
Don’t forget your hat and mittens, because even though it may be summer, you’ll be STANDING ON A GLACIER! And you’ll want to be able to really enjoy this one of a kind experience. They also offer ice climbing, extended treks, and private guided tours for an additional fee, and for this you’ll want to plan ahead.
Here's to being awestruck by something much larger and more beautiful than yourself, and taking time to appreciate it before it disappears.