Raven Glacier (May – Sept)
Detailed Description:
If you’re looking for less driving and more hiking than the Matanuska Glacier, this may be the hike for you! This trip takes us south of Anchorage along the Turnagain Arm of Cook Inlet to the Girdwood area. We’ll hike four miles and gain 2,300’ in elevation through a gorgeous alpine valley to reach Raven Glacier. We’ll spend about an hour walking on and exploring the glacier. Microspikes are included for traction on the ice – these fit over your hiking boots. We’ve seen mountain goat, Dahl sheep, moose, black bear, and brown bear on this hike. Difficulty is rated as challenging – this hike is recommended for guests with above average fitness levels.
Itinerary
An Alaska Adventure guide will pick your group up at your hotel by 8am the day of your Raven Glacier tour.
We’ll drive about an hour south of Anchorage and start our hike by about 9:30. We’ll hike the southern reaches of the Crow Pass trail, about four miles each direction, climbing about 2,300ft, to reach Raven Glacier.Microspikes will be provided so you’ll be able to walk safely on the glacier. Trekking poles are available upon request.
Hike duration can vary considerably based on participants’ skill and fitness levels, but we’re usually back in Anchorage by between 7 & 8 pm.
Raven Glacier Hiking Tour Notes
- Especially in Spring (April and May), melting snow causes wet and somewhat muddy conditions. Reasonably waterproof footwear that you don’t mind getting dirty is recommended.
- You can check the weather for the Girdwood area HERE.
- Dress in layers. When the weather turns out a little different than forecast, the sun comes out, or wind picks up, the ability to adjust to the conditions can make your time in the mountains much more enjoyable.
- Bring a small backpack or other means of carrying the few things you may want to keep available while we’re out, a hat, gloves, and water bottle for example.
- Bring your shades. It can be surprisingly bright on the glacier, with the sun’s rays reflecting from every direction. A hat with a bill in summer months, when the sun is at its peak, can also be helpful.
- This hike is rated as CHALLENGING and is NOT RECOMMENDED for guests with any serious medical conditions. There is NO CELLULAR SERVICE in the area and access to medical treatment is very limited.
- the river, with the sun’s rays reflecting from every direction. Polarized sunglasses will help you see fish through the glare of the water’s surface. A hat with a bill can help keep the sun out of your eyes and ease the eye strain from a long day watching the water. Both hat and sunglasses are a strongly recommended safety precaution in case a salmon lets go of your lure and sends it back in your direction.
- We’ll have bottled water, bug spray and sunscreen in the van. You’re welcome to bring your preferred variety.
- Feel free to give us a call if you have additional questions or concerns.
Includes & Excludes
- Round Trip Transportation from Anchorage area hotels
- Microspikes for traction and safety while on the glacier
- Bottled drinking water
- Lunch – We will make a stop along the way where you can purchase lunch.
- Footwear – no clothing items, jackets, or boots are provided
Raven Glacier Hiking Tour FAQs
The Raven Glacier hike is Alaska Adventure Guides’ most rigorous activity. We’ll hike about 8 miles, climb, and descend a little over 2,000 feet. It’s a long, amazing day where your group of active explorers will see much more than the average tourist. This hike is not recommended for people with significant health concerns.