Matanuska Glacier
Backcountry Ice Climbing

Expert’s on the Ice Since 1990

June 1st to September 10th

Book Your Glacier Adventure

An Introduction to the World of Frozen Ascents

climber smiles in excitement before ascending a glacier wall

$249 Per Person + Glacier Park Fee
2 person trip minimum to book
Adventure Level: Challenging
No Prior Ice Climbing Experience Necessary
This Adventure is for Ages 12-65
8 Hours
A great introduction clinic to beginner ice-climbing
An intense and intimate day with the Matanuska Glacier

Experience the thrill of ice climbing on the Matanuska Glacier with NOVA! Conquer towering ice walls and explore stunning crevasses, all while taking in breathtaking views of Alaska’s wilderness. Our expert guides will ensure you feel confident and safe, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned climber.

Things to Know Before Booking

Glacier Access Fee

Adults (17+): $45

Teens (13-16): $25

Alaska Residents, Military and Seniors (65+): $30

Restrictions

Ages: 12 – 65 Years Old

Minimum Shoe Size:
5 US Men / 6 US Women (to fit our boots and micro spikes)

Max. Weight: 250 lbs.
Min. Weight: 100 lbs.

Max Girth: 50 inches

Arrive Early

Please arrive 15 minutes early to sign Nova’s trip waiver.

Cancellation Policy

All day trips will receive a full refund* when cancellations are made at least 48 hours in advance

Check-In Information

9:30am
at 38100 W Glenn Highway, Glacier View, AK 99674

Still Have Questions? Visit Our FAQS Page!

“Learning how to ice climb was the highlight of the trip. Nate and Drew had so much information about the area, the flora and fauna and stories to share. It was the highlight of our trip to Alaska! They were really good to see how we were feeling throughout the hike, asking if we wanted to do more climbing. We did 3 different walls – the last one was just under 30m! It was great instruction, showing us how to make a V thread, making a spigot for glacier water, and staying safe all day. I would highly recommend NOVA Alaska Guides to all who are in the Glacier View area.”

~ Cori L. 2024 Matanuska Glacier Ice Climbing

“If you are traveling to Alaska you are going to want to book the Nova tours. It was the highlight of our trip. We did a glacier hike, ice climb, and white water rafting . Nate was great on the glacier. We learned so much and more important we felt safe. All while learning how to hike, repel and climb on ice. It was thrilling. Gavin was the captain of our boat for the white water rafting. He was knowledgeable and skilled at helping us navigate the rapids and get properly soaked. The booking process was simple and everyone at Nova is professional and fun. Thanks guys!“

~ Amy S. 2024 Matanuska Glacier Ice Climbing

“We went on a 5 hour glacier tour via the backcountry of the Matanuska Glacier. Ben, our guide was super professional and very thorough! We had a great time – even with some “beginner level“ ice climbing elements. Also walked through a canyon and took like a million pictures. I can highly recommend this company for adventures like that since we also saw a couple of unprofessional people there. So book with Nova! 👍“

~ Tanja H. 2024 Matanuska Glacier Ice Climbing

“We went with them on an ice climbing trip in the glacier. The two guides David and Betty were awesome. The glacier itself is very beautiful.
All necessary specific gear is provided by them.“

~ Daniel B. 2024 Matanuska Glacier Ice Climbing

“Once in a lifetime trip! We went ice climbing on the glacier with Thomas. He was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, and a great photographer too!

I would absolutely reccomend Nova for ice climbing or any other alaska adventure. I plan on utilizing them later in the summer for a white water rafting trip as well!”

~ Sarah B. Matanuska Glacier Ice Climbing

“What an amazing day! Guides Thomas and Drew are so much fun! Both were exceptional mountaineers and extremely knowledgeable about the glacier, and local history. Our group was able to explore many glacial features and experiment with ice climbing. We will be back!”

~ Tracy Y. 2024 Matanuska Glacier Ice Climbing

Images From Backcountry Ice Climbing

ice climbing in a glacier slot canyon that reflects in a glacier pool

guide teaching clients ice climbing technique

clients and a guide excited to be exploring the glacier

trekking across the glacier on ropes via ferrata style

ice climber on the Matanuska Glacier about to ascend the ice

client and NOVA guide high-fiving after fun climb

client learning ice climbing technique and rope skills

group ice climbing in a glacier canyon in the Fall

climber excited to be roping up for an ice climb

ice climber lowering down a glacier face

clients lowering on the Matanuska Glacier

couple walking up a glacier wall while on a rope

client excited to be ice climbing with NOVA Alaska Guides

girl excited to lowering on the Matanuska Glacier

Two Adventures Are Better Than One!

Combine Multiple Adventures & Save 10%

Valid on Any Combination of Matanuska Glacier Tours & River Trips

To receive your 10% discount, simply add a second trip from the options below the checkout cart, and the discount will be applied automatically!

Getting to Your Glacier Tour

Location Information

All of our Matanuska Glacier Tours check in at the main Nova building in Glacier View, Alaska.

Matanuska Glacier Tours

38100 W Glenn Highway, Glacier View, AK 99674

Nova Alaska Guides

With NOVA, you can expect to have an unforgettable experience exploring Alaska. Our trips focus on wilderness, scenic and cultural areas that are not impacted by industrial tourism.

Our goal is to enrich your appreciation of Alaska’s wild and special places while experiencing the thrill of active outdoor activities.

Learn More About Nova

Reviews from Real Adventurers

Booked ice climbing tour with NOVA and everything was just perfect. The guide was very professional and skilled, concerned about safety but focused on the fun.

We were super lucky with the weather as well.

Honza S. 2024

We did the back-country ice climb last week and had a great time. The guides, Nate and Ben, taught us a lot and kept safety in focus. Would definitely do it over again. Thanks!

Gus. 2024

The experience is fantastic. The guide is friendly and professional. The skill in our team is pretty diverse. I got some ice climbing experience before while others do not. Both of us hit some routes that we are satisfied. The guide also taught us how to build the ice anchor which is interested!!

Alex G. 2024

We had an Ice Climbing tour with Ben a few days ago and it was so much FUN! Ben is awesome & the tour is amazing!

CHG E. 2024

First time climbing, First time ice climbing. Super experience. All my family love it . Totally recommend. The guides did a great job 👏🏻👏🏻

Carlos R. 2024

My partner and I had an amazing time during our trip to the glacier to try out ice climbing! Our guide, Thomas, was amazing at answering questions and making the entire experience memorable. This was hands down the best experience I had during my time in Alaska. I definitely would recommend their ice climbing tours – NOVA in general – and Thomas as a guide!

Jessica B.

Book Your Backcountry Ice Climb