Snowmobile and Ice Climbing on Exit Glacier — Seward's One-Day Alaska Adventure
Race across snowfields by snowmobile, then climb a frozen waterfall at Exit Glacier on this compact, high-energy day trip from Seward. Guided gear, hot drinks, and up-close glacier views make this a standout winter experience for fit adventurers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for changeable cold
Wear moisture-wicking base layers and bring a warm midlayer—the provided insulated coveralls block wind, but active climbing still demands breathable warmth.
Protect electronics from cold
Keep spare camera and phone batteries in an inner pocket against your body to avoid rapid drain in subfreezing temperatures.
Hydrate before and during
Cold suppresses thirst but you’ll sweat under insulating layers—drink water before the ride and carry a small insulated bottle for the climb.
Tell guides your weight and limitations
Correct harness fit and snowmobile passenger limits depend on accurate weight and any mobility issues—declare them during booking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet viewpoints on the moraines east of Exit Glacier for unobstructed glacier vistas
- •Short, groomed flats where you can practice transitions and capture snowmobile action shots up close
Wildlife
- •Dall sheep on higher ridgelines
- •Bald eagles along the coastline and near river corridors
Conservation Note
Kenai Fjords sees seasonal sensitivity—stay on designated routes and follow guide instructions to minimize impact on fragile moraine vegetation and glacial runoff systems.
Exit Glacier drains from the Harding Icefield, a vast remnant of the last glaciation; Seward’s harbor and rail history grew around fish processing and early 20th-century expansion.
Photographer's Notes
- • At the snowmobile stop overlooking the glacier’s ablation zone
- • Base of the climb where ice curtains create abstract textures
- • Ridge lines on the approach for panoramic shots of the Harding Icefield
What to Bring
Insulated base and mid layersEssential
Keeps you warm during stationary belays and the snowmobile transfer.
Sturdy winter boots (insulated)Essential
Required for crampon compatibility and warmth; guides provide additional boots if needed.
Sunglasses or glacier gogglesEssential
Snow glare is intense; goggles also protect against windblown ice and spray.
Small daypack with insulated water bottle
Carries extra layers, snacks, and camera batteries close to your body for warmth.
Common Questions
Do I need previous ice-climbing experience?
No—this is a guided introduction. Instructors teach basic ice-tool technique and crampon use before placing you on a secured rope.
What are the age and weight restrictions?
Minimum age varies by operator but expect youth restrictions and declared weight limits for harness fitting and snowmobile safety—list accurate weights when booking.
What if weather cancels the trip?
Operators typically allow full refunds if you cancel 24+ hours prior; last-minute weather cancellations follow the company’s policy—confirm at booking.
Are restroom facilities available on the route?
Facilities are limited in the field; plan accordingly—most operators stop in Seward before departure and after return.
Is transportation from Seward included?
Meet at the company office in Seward; on-site transfers to staging areas are handled as part of the tour but city transportation is not provided.
What safety measures are in place for avalanches?
Guides carry avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes when travel crosses avalanche-prone slopes and choose routes with conservative terrain choices.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Strong cardio fitness and leg strength required; be comfortable on crampons and in cold, exposed conditions
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