A lone hiker captures a breathtaking view of a serene, turquoise glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains in Mat-Su, Alaska

Glaciers of the Mat-Su

The Mat-Su glaciers are a raw, sculptural force in the Alaskan landscape. Here, ancient rivers of ice carve their way through the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains, creating a playground for the adventurous at heart. Whether you want to step onto the ice yourself or view its sapphire-blue crevasses from above, The Mat-Su provides the most intimate glacier experiences in the Great Land.

Matanuska Glacier: Accessible Adventure

The Matanuska Glacier stands fearless, patiently crafting the natural world. As the largest glacier in the United States accessible by car, it offers a rare opportunity to drive right to the edge of an ice giant. Located near Sutton and Palmer, this 27-mile-long river of ice is a sanctuary for all kinds of adventures.

A majestic snow-capped mountain peak rises above a lush green forest, with clouds swirling around its base in Mat-Su, Alaska
A cluster of rustic buildings nestled in a lush green valley with snow-capped mountains in the distance in Mat-Su, Alaska
A vast expanse of jagged, blue ice stretches across a mountainous landscape, with misty peaks rising in the distance in Mat-Su, Alaska
A serene river scene at sunset with a canoe resting on the shore, surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil sky in Mat-Su, Alaska

Guided Treks

Strap on crampons and explore a labyrinth of ice caves, moulins, and blue pools with expert local guides.

Ice Climbing

Test your grit on vertical walls of translucent ice, taking on the rugged spirit of Mat-Su adventure.

The Knik Glacier: A Wilderness Masterpiece

For those seeking a deeper dive into the Alaska wild, the Knik Glacier is a testament to the Valley’s vast, untouched beauty. Accessible primarily by helicopter, jet boat, or ATV from the Palmer area, the Knik is a massive five-mile-wide ice field where the silence is broken only by the thunderous calving of ice into the lake below.

A cluster of rustic buildings nestled in a lush green valley with snow-capped mountains in the distance in Mat-Su, Alaska
A majestic snow-capped mountain peak rises above a lush green forest, with clouds swirling around its base in Mat-Su, Alaska
A vast expanse of jagged, blue ice stretches across a mountainous landscape, with misty peaks rising in the distance in Mat-Su, Alaska
A serene river scene at sunset with a canoe resting on the shore, surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil sky in Mat-Su, Alaska

Flightseeing & Landings

Soar over the jagged seracs of the Alaska Range and land directly on a glacier for a champagne toast or a high-altitude hike.

Take Off

Glacier Paddling

Paddle through ice-choked waters near the face of the glacier, feeling the ancient chill of the ice against your hull.

Hit the Water

Choose Your Ice Adventure

Browse our directory of authorized glacier guides and tour operators below. These local experts offer the hospitality of The Mat-Su, ensuring your journey onto the ice is safe, educational, and absolutely unforgettable.

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Talkeetna

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BUILD YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Our multi-day itineraries are filled with helpful suggestions as you sculpt your own Alaska journey. If you’re staying in nearby Anchorage, check out our day-trip ideas.

Plan Your Trip

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Scenic Drives

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Where to Stay

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