We have many beautiful glaciers in Alaska, but not very many are easily accessible. The Matanuska Glacier Trail in Glacier View, Alaska is a gorgeous, easy hike in for those wanting to see and experience some of the most amazing features in Alaska. The scenery is stunning and the views of this hunk of ice don’t disappoint!

Matanuska Glacier is a beautiful glacier that sits at a stunning 27 miles long and 4 miles wide.
John Metzler / AllTrails
It feeds into the mighty Matanuska River, and is a scenic 100 mile drive north of Anchorage. It is the largest glacier that you can get to with a car in not just Alaska- but all of the United States!
The trailhead to reach the glacier is located on private property, so it is a paid access hike.
Jason Richter / AllTrails
This is definitely worth it, as the experience you’ll have is unlike anything else! It is an easy to moderate hike, with many people enjoying the trek even with some physical restrictions.
The trail is an easy 2.7 mile loop, with the option of wandering around on the glacier when you reach it.
Tanner Jacobson / AllTrails
There is only a mild 260 feet of elevation gain, which makes this trail very accessible for many people. It’s a very populated trail in the summer, and dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash!

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The owner does lay down some boards for areas that can get excessive wet or muddy.
John Metzler / AllTrails
This helps a bit, but make sure you bring appropriate gear to hike with! You can also rent crampons from one of the guiding companies for better traction.
In fact, many people recommend going out with a guide on this hike so that you can explore the glacier more intensely.
John Metzler / AllTrails
The guides are helpful with the best spots to see on the glacier, and history of the area. It’s fun to wander all over the face of the glacier with crampons so that you’re more secure to the ice.
The guides usually charge about $100.00 per person, but does include equipment like crampons in the price.
Angelica Jansons / AllTrails
If you want to explore the glacier in the winter, it must be with an experienced guide, and they usually offer two tour times. The only time you’ll be allowed to explore the glacier independently is in June through September.
The fee to use the trail and get up and close to the glacier is $30.00 per person.
Zelmani Y. / AllTrails
This is because the trail is actually on private property. We are grateful for the owner opening up their land so we can check out this amazing glacier! This is the trailhead’s Address: Island Road, Sutton, AK 99674.

Have you been on this trail before? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!

If you’re headed out to the Matanuska Glacier, check out This Rustic Lodge Hiding In Alaska Is Downright Majestic!

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