Choose Date
Explore the Root Glacier: Half-Day Hike in McCarthy, Chitina
Join an interpretive walking tour through the historic Kennicott mining town where you’ll soak up soaring glacial and mountain vistas near McCarthy in Chitina, hike out onto the white ice of the Root Glacier, and explore unique glacial features like blue pools, moulins, and crevasses; you can even drink from a glacial stream and take in unbeatable views of the dramatic Stairway Icefall for a memorable outdoor experience that connects your stay with the landscape.
About this activity in McCarthy
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. no refund is available for cancellations.
Highlights
- Guided interpretive walking tour through the historic Kennicott mining town, bringing local history to life as you explore the site near McCarthy, Chitina.
- Breathtaking glacial and mountain vistas from vantage points that showcase the region’s dramatic landscape.
- Walk on the white ice of the Root Glacier and discover striking glacial features such as blue pools, moulins, and crevasses up close.
- Refresh with water from a glacial stream and take in unbeatable views of the Stairway Icefall for memorable photo opportunities.
Important Information
- This activity requires a moderate fitness level and is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health; minimum age is 8 and children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Dress for the elements: layer up, bring sunglasses, gloves and rain gear, and wear sturdy hiking boots suitable for glacier terrain.
- Service animals are allowed; the experience operates in all weather conditions, so plan accordingly and be prepared to hike on ice with guide-provided crampons if needed.
- You’ll be guided by a local expert familiar with the Kennicott area; expect interpretive commentary, safety briefings, and optional trekking poles upon request.
Meeting Point
Meet at the Kennicott trailhead parking area in McCarthy-your guide will confirm the exact time and landmark when you book. Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in and get fitted with any required gear.
Includes
- Private transportation is included, so you’ll have dedicated travel arrangements when visiting McCarthy, Chitina.
- A local guide is provided to help you navigate the area and enrich your experience here.
- Trekking poles are available on request if you prefer extra support on trails.
- Private tours are offered for a more personalized exploration of the region.
- Crampons are provided when the terrain calls for extra traction.
Excludes
- Lunch or snacks are not included-plan to bring your own food or arrange provisions in advance.
- A water bottle is not supplied, so carry adequate water for your outing.
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are not provided; bring footwear suited to trails and uneven ground.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen are not included-protect yourself even on cloudy days in this destination.
- Rain gear (top and bottom) is not supplied; pack waterproof layers for changing weather.
- A backpack is not provided-bring one to carry essentials during your activity.
- A camera is not included-bring yours to capture the scenery and memories.
- Lightweight gloves are not supplied; bring them for added comfort in cool conditions.
- A tip for your guide is not included; a gratuity of 10–20% of trip cost is recommended if you enjoyed the experience.
Other
- Service animals are allowed; please plan accordingly for travel in and around McCarthy, Chitina.
- This activity is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.
- You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to participate.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult; the minimum age to join is 8 years.
- Dress code is outdoors-ready-bring sunglasses, gloves, and rain gear and dress appropriately for the temperature.
- The experience operates in all weather conditions, so be sure to dress for changing conditions in the region.
Customer Reviews
10
/
10
Based on 10 Reviews
Summary:
Hiking the Root Glacier was exciting and a little scary as our first glacier hike. However, hiking with a friendly, experienced, and knowledgible guide, such as Veronica, from McCarthy River Tours made our day. Veronica prepared us for the hike and provided all of the guidance needed. Veronica stayed with us every step, she shared her experience and knowledge to insure a safe hike as well as an interesting experience. We would never have ventured as far and as safely on the Root Glacier if we had hiked without a guide. Veronica made this hike a memorable and fun one.
Read More
Summary:
An amazing view of a real live glacier. A scenic hike along the historic mining town of Kennicott takes you to the bottom of the root glacier where you strap on supplied crampons to hike around a beautiful white ice glacier with the option to swim in a glacial pool. Knowledgeable guides keep you informed about your surroundings and the history of the old mining town.
Read More
Summary:
This was a great day hiking to the glacier and over it. Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly.
Read More
Other Popular Activities in McCarthy
Explore top attractions and memorable experiences, including iconic observation decks and family-friendly activities.
5 activities found
5 star rating Recommendation
From
US $285
Per Person
Explore McCarthy, Chitina: Outdoor Nature, Tours and Adventure
Plan your next trip to McCarthy, Chitina to immerse yourself in Outdoor & Nature and Adventure & Thrill experiences, from guided hikes and wildlife-viewing to river-based tours and multi-day backcountry trips. In this destination you can easily book family-friendly sightseeing, Workshops & Learning, and Group-Friendly excursions that pair hands-on local history and scenic tours with active outdoor adventures. Use Varoom to find accommodations and Events here that streamline booking for Shows & Entertainment, Transportation & Rides, and multi-day full-day itineraries so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring the region.
Cabin
- Parking
- Balcony/Terrace
- Security/Safety
Cabin
- Parking
- Balcony/Terrace
- Security/Safety
Know more about McCarthy
You’ll walk through the historic Kennicott mining town with an interpretive guide, taking in soaring glacial and mountain vistas and learning about the area’s mining history while preparing for the glacier hike that follows.
Families can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult and the minimum age is 8, so plan accordingly when booking for younger travelers.
Dress outdoors-ready for variable conditions, with layers suitable for cold, wet weather and sun protection; previous sections list specific gear suggestions so review those before you arrive.
On the Root Glacier hike you’ll tread on white ice and explore unique glacial features such as blue pools, moulins, and crevasses, plus enjoy unbeatable views of the Stairway Icefall.
You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness; the activity is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health due to the physical demands of glacier hiking and walking over uneven terrain.
The combination of historic mining-town interpretation, close-up glacier trekking on the white ice, dramatic glacial features like blue pools and moulins, and sweeping views of mountain and ice-especially the Stairway Icefall-creates a unique Outdoor & Nature adventure you won’t find elsewhere.
