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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
81 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
2.9 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5-1h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Exit Glacier

Exit Glacier
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Exit Glacier Hike is a beautiful trail in Kenai Fjords National Park. This trail is easy, mostly paved and very popular, and once you reach an amazing viewpoint overlooking the Exit Glacier, you will understand why. This place is truly magical and the massive glacier, that is pouring from Harding Icefield, looks magnificent.

Route Description for Exit Glacier

The Exit Glacier hike, being one of the easiest accessible glaciers around Anchorage, attract lots of tourists, so the main thing you need to be aware of is crowds.

Arriving at the car park either very early or later in the day improves your chances of finding a parking space, so plan to arrive early or around dinner time. Even better, spend the night in the Exit Glacier campground which is nearby so you can get an early or late start.

Leave all your worries behind, as there are lots of facilities near the trailhead: starting with flush toilets, ranger station, even fresh water to fill your empty bottles. Make your way towards the glacier on a paved wide trail.

After around 0.5 km the paved path will end near the shelter with interpretive displays about glaciers and local wildlife. There are three loops to explore, but if you only want to see the glacier, without wandering take the path straight and follow the signage. It’s hard to get lost as you will see the glacier quite soon.

The glacier itself is huge. Sadly, it’s been retreating rapidly because of global warming, so don’t forget to take lots of pictures!

Take the same route back to return to the trailhead.

Find other amazing hikes around Anchorage:

Insider Hints for Exit Glacier

  • If you are up for adventure, you can hike to Harding Icefield. This hike is truly epic and starts at the same car park!
  • Spend a night at Exit Glacier Campground to beat the crowds
  • Visit Alaska SeaLife Center at Seward to learn about Alaskan marine fauna

Getting to the Exit Glacier Trailhead

Reach Seward Village by heading south on AK-1, then State Highway 9. Take a turn on your right to Herman Leirer Rd. and drive 7.1mi until you reach a big Exit Glacier car park.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    June - October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Exit Glacier Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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