98% of travelers recommend this experience. May, June, October, and November are considered shoulder season. We walked to the cliffs (the second stop of the trail) and the view was absolutely amazing. per group (up to 15) Bremen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour. While the majority of visitors stay on the trails and pathways, youll get to experience the picturesque backcountry, ancient glacier ice, and stunning vistas completely inaccessible by the regular traveler. Aialik Cabin is located on a beach and is a favorite location for whale watching; Holgate Arm Cabin gives campers a spectacular view of Holgate Glacier; and the Willow Cabin is located near Exit Glacier and the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center. No tricks, no gimmicks, no hidden fees. If youre interested in exploring the rugged majesty of this area, read on to learn more. The trail traverses fragile alpine areas, so please take care not to damage the vegetation via shortcuts. Visitors can easily reserve one of the Kenai Fjords National Park Tours out of Seward. Head south from Anchorage on the Seward Highway about 120 miles to the outskirts of Seward. $195.66. Was amazing! 97% of travelers recommend this experience. The trail will actually turn into the Glacier Overlook Trail just before you reach the Harding Icefield Trailhead. You will hike almost a mile on the Harding Icefield Trail before you get your first break in the trees and a view looking back towards the parking lot, Exit Creek and the Outwash Plain (the proglacial creek created by the Exit Glacier). Is there any narrow parts in the harding ice field trail? Find out what we carry in our day packs and what we wear on the trails. from . Antarctica and Greenland are the only present-day ice sheets. the first shuttle from Seward leaves at 9:30, the last leaves to Seward at 5. Your credit card will only It's hard, but absolutely magnificent. Eventually you will see an emergency shelter in the distance. Exit Glacier Shuttle (907-224-5569 or 907-224-9225), City of Seward Shuttle Service (907-224-3324), Set up camp at least 1/8 mile from the trail on bare rock or snow, Your camp must also be out of sight of the trail, You cannot camp in the emergency shelter near the top of the trail, it is for emergency use only, Odor Free Bag seal your food in an odor free bag to help avoid attracting bears, Sunglasses sun reflection off the glacier, icefield, and snow can make your sun exposure more intense, Hiking Poles if you dont normally use hiking poles then consider using them to help cross any snowy portions of the trail, Bear spray bear are often reported along this trail, Dress in layers you are likely to be warm as you ascend, but it can be colder as you approach the Harding Icefield as the glacial ice cools the surrounding air, Rain jacket be prepared in case bad weather moves in or in case its windy at the top. The choice is yours. It is worrisome to see how much the Exit Glacier has retreated, which is largely believed to be a result of climate change. The magnificent coastline of Kenai Fjords is steep valleys that were carved by glaciers in retreat. The Harding Icefield and its outflowing glaciers cover 700 square miles of Alaska's Kenai Mountains in glacier ice. If you have any questions about how to hike the Harding Icefield Trail, or if you would like to share your experience, let us know in the comment section below. But for those who can continue to hike higher the views get better. This hike can be done on your own, but if youd like to learn from a knowledgeable guide, let us take care of the logistics, and increase your climate change literacy + knowledge of this area, please join us! There are no garbage cans or toilet facilities along the trail. It is also the largest and is the only one located entirely within the United States. It was an easy hike and worth the trip to see the Exit Glacier! Every bead of sweat lost is worth it for the breathtaking sweeping views over a corner of the mammoth Harding Icefield, 700 square miles in its entirety. Tyler and I did it in 4 hours. Never ice climbed? Open in Google Maps, Kenai Fjords National Park Harding Icefield Trail, This tour is rated as Strenuous KENAI FJORDS NATIONAL PARK:Check out our Kenai Fjords National Park Travel Guideforimportant travel planning tips, sample itineraries, advice on when to go, where to stay, and more. Campgrounds, RV Parks & Public Use Cabins. Majestic views. We also have a detailed guide to driving from Anchorage to Valdez, yet another amazing road trip. Highly recommend this hike! You have up until 7 days prior to your tour date to cancel for any reason. Part of this group, including Yule Kilcher, continued across the Harding Icefield and skied down Exit Glacier. Bottom line? Located in the Kenai Fjords National Park, which is just a 20-minute drive from the town of Seward, the Harding Icefield is an accessible glacier, and you can easily get to it by car, by driving to the Exit Glacier Area. In 2004, the NPS installed an automated weather station at 4,200 feet on a nunatak in the northeastern part of the Harding Icefield (Figure 2). from . In contrast to crowded places and other tours in Seward, our Harding Icefield Trail Hiking tours are nimble and limited to 12 guests per tour. Black bears are frequently spotted along the Harding Icefield Trail as they love to feed on the salmonberries in this area. This is a double, triple, awesome unique hike. Northwestern Fjord Cruise in Kenai Fjords: Photos, Map & Is It Worth It? Be especially on the lookout for mother bears with cubs. Note: The National Park Service recommends 6 to 8 hours to do this hike, but it can be done much faster. This is a busy trail, so don't think you will be out there alone.. We hiked with an 8 and 12 year old and made it to Marmot Meadow. Find it cheaper? Few scenes in the world compare to the view across the frozen expanse of the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield. There are some glaciers you can drive to, but very few that you can stroll to. Looking over a corner of the ice field is a humbling experience, one that leaves behind a sense of magnitude and awe that stays with visitors for a long time after they leave Alaska. If you have further questions please email [emailprotected] or if it is an urgent matter you can call 1-888-586-8489. You should be prepared for stronger sunlight/heat than you may expect,sudden weather/temperature changes, and potentially snow on portions of the trail. All reservations must be made through the website as our customer service representatives cannot take credit card information over the phone. Please be aware that there are no bathrooms in the backcountry, and you will have to "go" outside in nature. They will lead you on a guided hike on the Lower Trail or to Harding Icefield, all while providing information about how climate change has affected the landscape, wildlife, and people of Alaska. With eight hours and a fun, knowledgeable guide to take you directly to the best views and hidden gems, you simply cant go wrong with this best-selling hiking tour from Seward. You should be capable of hiking uphill. View from the switchbacks on the hike up to Top of the Cliffs. Download all three Alaska tour brochures for tour dates and pricing. Lots of great views 1/2 to 3/4 to top, so possible to make a little shorter and still great hike. During the first three full years of operation, the lowest observed temperature was -21 degrees F, the highest observed temperature was 68 degrees F, and the maximum observed sustained wind gust was 117 miles per hour. Overwhelmed by choices? How and where to find Alaskas glacierssome of the states most beautiful natural attractions. Minimum age of 10. Our ice climbing guide told us that bear will cross the Exit Glacier. Sticking out of the icefield are mountain peaks. NPS photo / S. Wright (2017) The Exit Glacier area is the only part of the park accessible by road.. We could have gone higher but there was snow on the trail even when we stopped. A more intimate experience with everything from glaciers, waterfalls, to wildlife. Guided tour through the multimedia world heritage presentation. To the right of the Exit Glacier Nature Center are restrooms. The Harding Icefield from the end of the trail. Naming the Ice I think that is a realistic estimate if you are in good shape and have experience hiking. Check out the Resurrection River Trail at Mile 7 of Exit Glacier Road. According to the Kenai Fjords National Park website you should take the following preventative measures: And you should do the following if you see a bear: Bear are often spotted along this trail. Watch our 23-second clip as we fly from the ice field down the glacier all the way to the gravel river bar at 600 mph. This trek climbs 3000 feet alongside Exit Glacier as it passes through several climatic zones. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. This expansive icefield is located in the Kenai Mountains of the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. Liquid Adventures has an excellent reputation running small-group, boutique kayaking trips out of Seward. 212 Admiral Way Ste. Raining day (if not too heavy) is the best friend for this hiking experience. The Harding Icefield trail is breathtaking to witness, and its beauty is undeniable. Click here to view location 328 3rd Ave. Minimum Age: 15, Price is per person and does not include the7% city sales tax. DENALI NATIONAL PARK: For a list of top experiences, read our article Best things to do in Denali National Park. Ice sheets are huge and continental in scope. If you're active and enjoy spending time in nature, this tour is perfect for you. Never get between a mother bear and her cubs. This thin trail heads towards the side of the Exit Glacier. Explore the history of how this massive frozen river shaped the landscape, We often see large fauna like bears and goats on this hike, Know yourself! Historical Tours. We'll start early in the morning to beat the crowds. Big ship or small ship? Learn about this unique and perpetually changing glacier in the Kenai Fjords National Park on this easy hike. Pack out all litter. Book directly on KenaiBackcountryAdventures.com or call our office to get the best price on our tours. Hikers gain approximately 1,000 feet of elevation with every mile. Historical Tours. Tour Details Price $179 per person, plus tax Duration 8 Hours 7-10 days is the most common. We recommend booking Harding Ice Field Trail tours ahead of time to secure your spot. $14.44. we feel that everyone should get the same lowest price possible regardless of how many To sleep on top of a remnant of the Pleistocene? This glacier was the exit point at the end of that expedition, hence the name. While glaciers act as drains, the icefield itself can be replenished with new snow accumulation. It can serve as a great turnaround point for those who dont want to ascend further, if there are sections of unpassable snow further up trail, or if you are running out of time. The more gradual ascent, the amazing views of the Exit Glacier and the Harding Icefield, crossing patches of snow, and seeing the occasional marmot made this the most enjoyable section of the trail. What hotels are near Harding Ice Field Trail? Our website uses cookies. Plan Your Vacation Right, Get Accurate Booking Availability. | COPYRIGHT | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, Free Cancellation up to 48 hours in advance, World-Class 8-hour wilderness hiking tour on the Harding Icefield Trail, Discover interesting stories, local history, and wildlife facts from your friendly guide, Spot wildlife along the way and see views that will take your breath away, Stunning glacier and icefield views, towering snowcapped mountains, waterfalls, and fresh mountain air, Deli-style lunch turkey wrap, granola bar, and piece of fruit (dietary options available), Interpretive guided hiking on this small group tour, Courtesy round-trip ground transportation from Seward to Kenai Fjords NP, Please arrive 15 minutes early to check-in and get set up, There are no bathrooms in the backcountry, though facilities are available before and after your tour, You must have a reasonable level of fitness and be able to walk on uneven terrain, Under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult, Bring snacks, and a water bottle (water can be filled at our office/vehicle), Waterproof rain jacket rain pants highly recommended, Camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, and any personal items, Cash or Venmo for guide gratuities (recommended), SEWARD TO SKILAK LAKE BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURE, WILDERNESS HIKING IN KENAI NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, Ready to Plan Your Alaska Adventure? The 8.2-mile round trip Harding Icefield Trail is a spectacular day hike leaving from the Exit Glacier Area. Kenai Fjords National Park was established as a national monument in 1978. This challenging day hike rewards you with an overlook of the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield, the source of 38 named glaciers, including Exit and the tidewater glaciers on the Kenai Fjords outer coast. Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure from Seward, Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise, Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Seward, Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay Half-Day Wildlife Cruise, Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise, Northwestern Fjord Sightseeing Cruise from Seward, Helicopter and Glacier Dog Sledding Tour from Seward, Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise, Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park Guided Tour with Lunch. This challenging day hike rewards you with an overlook of the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield, the source of 38 named glaciers, including Exit and the tidewater glaciers on the Kenai Fjords outer coast. Yes, you should bring your own snacks and sufficient water on this tour. For guests who are looking for a more luxurious environment, the Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge is available. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Still, the park is one of Alaskas most popular national parks and visitors flock to the area for Alaska Glacier Tours. The Harding Icefield Trail starts off as a moderate ascent through brush and trees with occasional stone steps. Please send an email to [emailprotected] letting us know which tours you would like to cancel as we must have all cancelation requests in writing. 2, 32425 Minden, North Rhine-Westphalia Germany. We were worried about the hiking plan on 7/7/2022 due to the rain forecast (98-99%) the whole day. Black bears are spotted almost everyday from the Harding Icefield Trail. Free personal GPSdriven travel guide to Alaska. 15 minutes - transportto Kenai Fjords National Park, 30 minutes - return transport back to Seward. As you drive down Herman Leirer Road, you will see the Kenai Fjords National Park entrance sign and you will also see signs with four-digit numbers on them. from . Nestled at the base of Kenai Fjords National Park, this beautiful trail starts at Exit Glacier. For the full list, read our article best things to do in Kenai Fjords National Park. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers. Parking is free and entry into the park is also free. Shortly past the Birth Canal you will get your first view of the Exit Glacier. Enjoy the Kenai Peninsula's magnificent alpine glaciers and breathtaking mountain scenery. Icefields also exert their own influence on local and global climate, changing pressure systems and wind directions, serving to keep adjacent land and water cold. We know that plans can change, thats why we offer one of the most generous cancellation policies in the tourism industry. Pack it out. We used them for our ice climbing excursion and we used their sister company (Liquid Adventures) for our Aialik Glacier kayaking excursion. 1. July, August, and the first half of September are generally the best times to hike this trail. The sites are free to use on a first-come first-serve basis. Bedrock can show through the ice of an icefield. If you are arriving Seward via train or ship, then you might not have access to an automobile. The trail now becomes rockier and a bit steeper. City Tours. 30 miles long. World-Class 8-hour wilderness hiking tour on the Harding Icefield Trail. Therefore, we recommend planning this hike in July, August, or the first half of September. Mobile ticket Offered in: English Overview Make the most of your time in Seward by hiking into the Kenai Fjords National Park during this full-day excursion. This trip runs as soon as the snow safely melts (usually late June) to September 9th. The descents in the snow were a blast. Access to the Harding Icefield is exceptional in comparison to other large icefields. The trail ends overlooking the massive 700 square mile Harding Icefield, which is a leftover of the last major Ice Age. $21.04. The Harding Icefield Trail is one of the most spectacular hikes in Alaska. $251.09. Be on the look out for mountain goats, black bear, and marmots--- they are common sightings up here. Bring warm clothes, rain gear, sturdy footwear, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Harding Icefield Hike // $120 per person | 5-8 hrs. $33.70. Insider tips to pick the best Alaska cruise. City walk through Hanover. Our Sister Company Liquid Adventures Runs the most Innovative and Spectacular Kayaking trips inSeward. See all 2 Harding Ice Field Trail tours on Tripadvisor, View all hotels near Harding Ice Field Trail on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Harding Ice Field Trail on Tripadvisor, Things to Do in Kenai Fjords National Park, Hotels near Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), Motels near Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), All things to do in Kenai Fjords National Park, Geologic Formations in Kenai Fjords National Park, Nature & Wildlife Areas in Kenai Fjords National Park, Hiking Trails in Kenai Fjords National Park, Bodies of Water in Kenai Fjords National Park, Harding Ice Field Trail: Tickets & Tours, Harding Ice Field Trail Tours and Tickets, Arenal Volcano Rainforest Walk and Hot Springs, Enjoy Abha Mountains & Nice Weather with this 4 day Shared Tour, Taking Liberty, The Pittsburgh Red-Light District Tour, Dinner cruise on Cartagena's bay with Sibarita Master, All inclusive trip Giza Pyramids,Egyptian Museum,Sphinx,Bazar,Camel Ride,Lunch. Nothing compares to the sense of perspective and accomplishment youll feel after hiking to Mount Marathon Bowl! Please bring a camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, and other small personal items you may require. Youll reach the Harding Icefield Trail at about 0.3 miles into the hike. This makes the total roundtrip distance of the hike 8.8 miles. It is a place where you can witness up close how glaciers re-shape a landscape and learn how plant life reclaims the barren rocky . At the top, the view is unlike any other: Mountain peaks enshrouded with ice stretch off into the distance and many must be tempted to come back someday, like Kilcher, and go further. This trip has a maximum group size of 8participants but is often much smaller. But as we started our descent, we noticed fog moving in and visibility was getting worse so we kept up a steady pace until we got below the fog layer. Top of the Cliffs is about 6 miles out-and-back. All trips include instruction to get you started. The name was published in 1950 by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS); presumably named for Warren Gamaliel Harding, 1865-1923, 28th President of the United States. Needing to get to Homer and unwilling to wait for another steamer, Kilcher decided to cross the Harding. He headed up Lowell Creek but returned within a week, having learned a crossing like this would be more of an expedition than a hike. A good start would be take the wheelchair accessible Glacier View Loop (one mile total) to a view spot overlooking the outwash plain with a sweeping panorama of the glaciers descent. We didnt see a signpost marking the Top of the Cliffs but it was an obvious viewpoint as you have an amazing view of where the Harding Icefield ends and the Exit Glacier begins. The Harding Icefield is one of only four remaining icefields in the United States. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. Three Amazing Alaskan Vacations To Choose From! The flow of ice from the edges of an icefield are called glaciers. per adult. Whether youre here for the first time, hosting visitors, or looking for a family-friendly adventure, our Alaska Glacier Tours are fun, exhilarating, and offer unforgettable experiences of our beautiful backyard. Amazing to see the glacier, but also incredibly sad to see how far it has receded in just the past 10 years even. Liquid Adventures has blazed its own path in the kayaking industry by building our own water taxis, pioneering new trips in new locations, and re-investing heavily in our equipment and guide training. The parks glacial wonderland features stunning scenery, incredible wildlife, and plenty of ocean adventures. Seward Harding Icefield Hike Tour. Would love to go back to reach the top. First, the rain was not heavy, mostly drizzling. Most of the hiking was in the woods which reduced the wetness significantly. Liquid Adventures has an excellent reputation running small-group, boutique kayaking trips out of Seward. ALASKA ITINERARY: Take the guesswork out of planning your trip to Alaska with our Alaska road trip itineraries. ), Popular Alaska Itineraries Using In-State Airlines, Anchorage to Denali National Park Driving Map, Denali National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks. Scientists studying glacial geology and past climates recognize that the last two and a half million years of Earths history fluctuated periodically between cold and warm conditions. If you have to go, dig a small cat hole at least 100 feet from the trail or from any streams or water sources. m. ft. Harding Icefield. Liquid Adventures has blazed its own path in the kayaking industry by building our own water taxis, pioneering new trips in new locations, and re-investing heavily in our equipment and guide training. We had numerous people tell us that the weather over the Exit Glacier is generally clearer than the weather over Seward. We will probably only have time to hike to the Top of the Cliffs.
