Matanuska Glacier Camp

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Today, we are hopping into a R44 helicopter and flying up to Matanuska Glacier in Alaska to reach a remote campsite.

The glacier is a 2-hour drive from Anchorage. At approximately 26 miles long and 4 miles wide, it is the largest glacier accessible by car in North America.

But that doesn’t mean you’ll have to worry about crowds, only hard-core hikers and helicopters can make it deep into the glacial field, where the camp is set up. giving you a unique experience with a small group of new friends.

If you’re looking for solitude and an overnight that’s beyond the ordinary, this might be for you.

Matanuska Glacier Camp

After a 10-minute flight, the pilot gently lands the chopper on a gravel patch on the glacier.

Once on land, the guide leads the group to enormous, stunningly blue pools and jagged crevasses.

After stretching your legs, it’s time to fly over to the glacier camp.

But before settling into camp, it’s time to strap on some crampons and give ice climbing a try. Experienced climbers can tackle steep ice climbs while newbies get some lessons.  

After an action-packed afternoon on the glacier, hike back to camp. Then “check in” to your tent.

These aren’t the cramped camping tents you might be used to but spacious and luxurious ones with a queen-sized bed.

When it comes to food, it’s also not your typical freeze-dried camping meal fare but a gourmet spread of charcuterie boards and a generous main course.

The next morning enjoy fresh brewed coffee with the serenity of the remote Matanuska Glacier.  After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to this little slice of glacial heaven.

 

See what it’s like to camp on Matanuska Glacier

If you would like to explore more, here are some links you can check out to get an idea of what it would be like to explore the glacier.

• Glacier Camping (blog)

• Matanuska Overnight Adventure (tour info)

How to visit

You can visit as a day trip or stay the night at the Glacier Camp. Serious hikers can also hike and explore the glacier independently.