Hike Exit Glacier trail if your looking for a great way to spend the day while in Seward, Alaska. Exit Glacier is a stunning glacier that you can hike to or observe from the road-choose your adventure.
In July of 2023 I had the pleasure of visiting Seward Alaska for the first time and wanted to make time to hike Exit Glacier. Truly a spectacular place to visit! Between day cruises in the Fjord covered ocean, salmon fishing, and delicious restaurants-you want to add this gorgeous part of Alaska to your agenda.
We opted for the Exit Glacier Hike and wanted to share our experience along with insider tips! Let’s get into it.
Where Is Kenai Fjords National Park?
Kenai Fjords National Park is south of Anchorage on the Kenai Peninsula. The park consists of nearly 40 glaciers flowing from the Harding Ice Shield. Kenai is where the mountains meet the sea, as much of the national park exists in the Fjord filled coastline.
Explore marine life, fish for salmon and halibut, observe glaciers from the water or by foot-the adventure is yours! Depending on the time of year you visit Seward, Alaska-my summer itinerary can be your guide. June-September is the best time to visit Alaska. Weather is warmer, days are long, and more trails and excursions are available.
Where Is Exit Glacier?
Just 20 minutes outside of Seward, Alaska, this hike is part of Kenai Fjords National Park. Due to the vastness of the national park, this is one of the only roads in that makes it viewable by foot.
On the drive in your able to view the glacier from the road, so if doing the Exit Glacier Hike isn’t for you, thats okay!
The Glacier retreated approximately 187 feet from 2013 to 2014. As you drive into the park watch out for signs on the road and trail that indicates years of where the glacier once stood. It’s quite eye opening to see how much the glacier has retreated over the years as you drive into the trailhead parking.
Hiking At Exit Glacier
Depending on what type of hike at Exit Glacier you want to complete, there are a variety of options to choose from for all ability levels. Below are hikes to complete in the summertime that start from the same parking lot. Most likely you won’t encounter bears unless hiking the Harding Icefield trail. In Alaska it is always a good idea to hike with bear mace no matter where you’ll be-especially in the summer.
Harding Icefield Trail
If your looking for a harder hike with the closest view of Exit Glacier, this is the trail for you. With 3,198 feet of elevation gain in 4.3 miles one way, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to complete this hike. On a rainy day the bouldering fields can become slippery making the hike harder to complete.
Exit Glacier View and Overlook Loop
If your looking to get closer to the glacier but don’t want to do the hardest trek up to the Harding Ice Field-this is the hike for you. Its 2.2 miles with 314 feet of elevation gain so good for all ages. This loop takes you to an open boulder field and river bank with views of the glacier from below. Hike up further to the fence line to get a closer view.
Exit Glacier View Loop
Want the easiest route to the glacier? this is a 1 mile loop that is partially paved. If you have a stroller this is a great option for the entire family! Feeling adventerous? Walk down onto the boulder field and take a step in the creek.
Winter Hiking at Exit Glacier
In the winter Herman Leirer Road is unmaintained and closed to automobile traffic. If your up for the adventure, the road is open for snowmobiles, sled dogs, fat bikes, and cross country skis. Winter is one of the best times to spot moose at Exit Glacier! Once you arrive there is a warming hut with a wood stove along with pit toilets.
Want to hire a guide for a winter adventure? Book through Adventure 60 North to take you up to Exit Glacier. Keep in mind that weather in Alaska changes daily-so always know before you go and check weather conditions first. Keep in mind the limited daylight in the winter before planning your trip.
All in all, hiking this glacier trail on a sunny day was a treat! We hiked mid-day during the week and shared the trail with many other tourists visiting the area. As always-Leave No Trace and leave the wilderness better than you found it.
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