Hey Folks,
We run backpacking trips. Lots of them. We spend a lot of time on ice. A LOT of time. Over the years, collectively, the guides at Expeditions Alaska have clocked hundreds of miles walking, camping, relaxing, and exploring, on ice.
It’s such a big part of what we do, glacier travel is an integral part of our Guide Training Camp. I thought we might share some of the notes we reference for guides during that camp.
What You Should Know About Hiking on Glaciers in Alaska
Traction
Kahtoola Microspikes are great
- “When do I put them on?” As soon as ice is the norm (not moraine/rock).
- A lot of folks have trouble putting them on. Don’t skimp or rush it. Take your time. Make sure they’re on securely.
It’s Rocky
Moraines are everywhere
- Low angle slopes preferred. Steeper moraine = more dangerous.
- Space Out: If you need to walk up a steeper slope of moraine, mitigate rock fall by spreading the group a bit.
- Use your poles! Ankle roll is always a potential hazard on loose rock with a heavy pack.
- Heads up! Don’t walk underneath walls of moraine. Rocks slide off and fall regularly.
Watch For Cracks
Crevasses
- #1 Rule. Don’t jump into them. : )
- Help. If a client feels uncomfortable around an exposed section, take their pack.
- Take their pack. If they refuse help but still look shaky.
- Walk WITH the direction of crevasses, not against them, until you’ve reached your exit point. Example: Seven Pass, Bremner Glacier.
On & Off The Ice
Exits/Entrances
- Scout it, if unsure about path. Don’t accidentally walk the entire group into dangerous terrain in a line.
- Record a GPS track. Leaving or entering a glacier can be a maze. A track is an invaluable tool to retrace your steps back to your group.
Avoid At All Costs
Snow on glaciers
- Don’t step on it. Snow can bond and sit over enormous holes and crevasses, hiding what’s beneath.
- Practice identifying snow vs ice with someone who has experience.
- Poke It! Hard with a pole to be sure. They feel totally different.
Decision-Making
Obstacles
- Don’t like how something looks? Find a better way. There’s most likely another close by.
Slippery When Wet
Creek crossings around glaciers.
- Hot weather? Extreme diurnal cycle around glacier edges and where water travels next to/from ice.
- Make it an early start to avoid diurnal surges.
- Ask guides for beta on past exits/entrances.
- Safe Crossings: Absolute priority to choose safe places with plenty of extra safe water (if someone were to slip.) Water will be absolutely freezing.
- Help each person across if need be.
Layer Up
Cold (when you’re hiking and particularly when you stop)
- If you need to scout a section of glaciated terrain, leave resources for your group to stay warm as they wait for you to figure out a route.
- Hot lunch: ready for the glacier day just in case.
- Wind: glaciers create a lot of it. Layer up if ya need to.
Enjoy
Sometimes we get lucky and the walking is about as good as it gets.
Backpacking Trips With Glacier Travel
A section of our Backpacking and Basepacking trips that (can) include some glacier travel.
- Seven Pass
- Goat Trail
- Northern Traverse
- Malaspina Glacier Traverse
- Heart of the Park
- Wrangell Ramble
- Iceberg Lake Basepack
- Skolai Pass Basepack
- Nizina Lake Basecamp
Be safe out there.
Cheers
Carl
PS: Bonus Section – Glacier Hiking FAQs
Do I need microspikes for Alaska glacier hiking?
Yes, Kahtoola Microspikes are essential for glacier travel. Put them on as soon as ice becomes the norm rather than moraine or rock. Take time to secure them properly.
Are crevasses dangerous on Alaska glaciers?
Yes, crevasses are serious hazards. Never jump into them. Walk with the direction of crevasses, not against them. If you’re uncomfortable, remove your pack or get assistance from guides.
Why should I avoid snow on glaciers?
Snow can bond and sit over enormous holes and crevasses, completely hiding what’s beneath. Always poke hard with a trekking pole to distinguish snow from ice – they feel totally different.
What time should I cross creeks near glaciers?
Make early morning starts to avoid diurnal surges. In hot weather, extreme diurnal cycles occur around glacier edges, making creek crossings dangerous by afternoon.
What Alaska trips include glacier hiking?
Trips with glacier travel include Seven Pass, Goat Trail, Northern Traverse, Malaspina Glacier Traverse, Heart of the Park, Wrangell Ramble, Iceberg Lake Basepack, Skolai Pass Basepack, and Nizina Lake Basecamp.
