Alaska has a whopping 100,000 glaciers, but many are difficult to see outside of an airplane. Exit Glacier in Alaska is close to the road system and easy for anyone to visit! You can actually walk very close to the glacier, unlike the thousands of other glaciers dotting the state. I have always loved visiting Exit Glacier, and have visited this incredible spot dozens of times over the past decade and a half!

The Kenai Peninsula is known for many incredible areas, including Kenai Fjords National Park.
Alvis Upitis via Photodisc Collection / Getty Images
One of the most famous spots in the national park is Exit Glacier State Recreation Area, a wonderful place where you can learn more about the glaciers that used to completely cover Alaska.
The crowning attraction is Exit Glacier itself.
photo by Bill Koplitz via Moment Collection / Getty Images
The glacier is four miles long, but receding rapidly. In fact, from 2013-2014 the glacier receded 187 feet. Scientists continue to monitor the glacier regularly.
Visiting Exit Glacier is a stunning experience.
Megan McDonald / Only In Your State
It almost feels otherworldly as you look upon this huge chunk of ancient ice.
Throughout the recreation area, and as you drive in on the road, you can see markers of how far out the glacier was in different time periods.
Ashley Cooper via Corbis Collection / Getty Images
It’s a sobering realization of how quickly the ice is retreating. There are a number of wonderful things you can learn at the Visitor’s Center while you’re exploring.
Exit Glacier is the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park that’s accessible by road.
Matt Champlin via Moment Collection / Getty Images
That makes it a very popular destination. There are paved, wheelchair-accessible walkways out to stunning views of the glacier, making it a great way for everyone to see this beautiful national park.

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If you can, visit on a cloudy day.
Megan McDonald / Only In Your State
The deep turquoise and blues are much more prominent on a cloudy, rainy day. Luckily for you, Seward has plenty of those days!
While you used to be able to get closer to the glacier, now the areas are roped off.
milehightraveler via E+ Collection / Getty Images
The ice is unstable at the toe of the glacier, so signs have been erected warning you of danger. But you can still get incredible views of this amazing glacier: it’s just not recommended to get too close.
Over a decade ago many walked an easy path to the toe of the glacier and the start of the river.
Megan McDonald / Only In Your State
It was a beautiful spot, but now, with the ice receding, the glacier is more unstable.
The recreation area is open all year long.
pchoui via iStock / Getty Images Plus
During the winter when it snows the road is closed down, but many people snowshoe or ski into the Exit Glacier area. It's a fabulous place to explore, no matter the season or weather.
The next time you’re in the Seward area, make sure to stop off at this incredible spot.
Stanley Chen Xi, landscape and architecture photographer via Moment Collection / Getty Images
No matter the season, you’ll love what you find when you visit Exit Glacier. This is one great place you’ll keep coming back to!

Have you ever explored Exit Glacier in Alaska? What did you think? Was it amazing? Let us know in the comments below! Need warm gear for your next adventure? Make sure to swing by REI.

If you want to explore Exit Glacier State Recreation Area further, make sure you Hike Alongside This Immense Icefield On This Unforgettable Trail In Alaska.

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More to Explore

Exit Glacier In Alaska

Megan McDonald | December 15, 2023

Is Exit Glacier worth visiting?

Exit Glacier, located in Kenai Fjords National Park near Seward, Alaska, is worth visiting. It's known for its accessibility and impressive views. Visitors can get close to the glacier via well-maintained trails, making it a unique opportunity to experience a glacier up close. 

The area also offers educational insights into glacial retreats and the local ecosystem. It's a popular spot for its natural beauty and educational experience, making it a valuable destination for anyone interested in glaciers or natural landscapes.

Where are the most accessible glaciers in Alaska?

Here are the most accessible glaciers in Alaska:

  • Mendenhall Glacier: Located near Juneau, it's one of the most famous and accessible glaciers, with a visitor center and several trails. Many people visit here each year.
  • Exit Glacier: Situated near Seward in Kenai Fjords National Park, it offers trails leading up to the glacier and the Harding Icefield. The first part of the trail is wheelchair accessible.
  • Matanuska Glacier: Accessible via the Glenn Highway, it's the largest glacier reachable by car from Anchorage. There are many glacier climbs and hikes available here.
  • Portage Glacier: South of Anchorage, best viewed from Portage Lake, with boat tours available.

 

These glaciers offer unique experiences for visitors. Mendenhall Glacier provides easy access to a stunning ice mass and a visitor center for educational insights. Exit Glacier allows for an up-close view of a dynamic glacial landscape. With its impressive size, Matanuska Glacier offers a more adventurous experience for those willing to explore its vast ice fields. Lastly, Portage Glacier, accessible by boat tours, offers a different perspective, showcasing the majesty of Alaska's glaciers from the water. Each glacier provides a memorable encounter with Alaska's natural beauty.

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Exit Glacier, Alaska 99664, USA