The Best Way to See Exit Glacier

The Best Way to See Exit Glacier — A Front-Row Seat to Alaska’s Changing Landscape

If you’re researching the best way to see Exit Glacier in Seward, Alaska, you’ve probably already figured out that it is well worth a visit — but maybe not for the reasons you’d expect. Yes, the landscape is both stunning and walkable. Yes, it’s one of the only glaciers in Alaska you can reach by road. But what makes Exit Glacier truly unforgettable is what it shows you: it’s one of the best places in the country to get a strong visual of the dramatic effects of climate change and a chance to begin to understand how glaciers shape — and reshape — entire landscapes. 

Come prepared for that story, and Exit Glacier will leave a mark on you.

A Glacier In Retreat

Exit Glacier is one of only a few glaciers in southcentral Alaska reachable by road, and it’s the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park accessible without a boat or plane. That accessibility is part of what makes it such a powerful place to visit. 

As you walk the lower trails, you’ll pass a series of markers showing where the glacier’s edge stood in previous decades — the 1950s, the 1970s, the 1990s, and beyond. The distance between those markers and where the ice sits today is striking. What was once solid glacier is now open valley, forest, and riverbed. The informational display near the visitor center maps the glacier’s location — but even a version from 2005 is already visibly outdated. The glacial retreat isn’t a future prediction. It’s right in front of you. 

That said, what remains is still awe-inspiring. The ice is massive, blue-tinged, and ancient. And understanding what’s changed makes what you’re seeing feel even more significant.

What You Can Do Once You’re There

The Nature Center near the parking area is a great first stop, with information about the glacier, its history, and the best trails for different ability levels. From there, the trail network ranges from easy strolls to serious all-day hikes.

Easy Loop (about 1 mile): A wheelchair-friendly one-mile loop from the parking area that gets you close enough to feel the scale of what you’re looking at.

Glacier Overlook Trail (2.2 miles): This trail winds through a glaciated forest of spruce, cottonwood, and birch — land that was covered by ice not long ago — before opening up to direct views of the glacier. Most visitors complete it in about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip. 

Harding Icefield Trail (advanced): A difficult 5–8 hour hike ascending 3,000 feet to a full panoramic view of the icefield above. One of the most rewarding hikes on the Kenai Peninsula — but check conditions first, as upper sections can be closed due to snow even in midsummer. ALASKA.ORG

Wildlife is common throughout the area, so carry bear spray and know how to use it. Moose, mountain goats, and birds are regularly spotted along the trails.

Getting There: Why a Tour Makes All the Difference

Getting to Exit Glacier on your own is possible, but it comes with friction. Rental cars in Seward can be scarce, parking fills up fast in peak season, and if you’re arriving by cruise ship or train, you’re already working against a tight clock. Seward City Tours takes all of that off your plate — and our local guides add the context that turns a pretty hike into a genuinely eye-opening experience making our tours one of the best ways to get to Exit Glacier.

History & Glacier Combo Tour (2.5 hours)

This tour pairs a guided historical city tour of Seward with a one-hour visit to Exit Glacier, giving you time to explore the shorter trails (most guests have time only for the easy loop, some can make it to the overlook and back), talk with Park Rangers, and take in the glacier views — with a knowledgeable local guide to help put what you’re seeing into context. A great fit for cruise passengers or anyone with a tighter schedule. Luggage storage and train station delivery included.

Seward Deluxe Tour (5 hours)

The full Seward experience: city tour, one-hour at Exit Glacier, admission to the Alaska SeaLife Center, and lunch. Departs from the train depot at 11:30 AM with self-directed hiking time at the glacier  (most guests have time only for the easy loop, some can make it to the overlook and back). This is the tour for people who want to feel like they’ve genuinely seen Seward — not just passed through it.

Private Tour

For groups that want a custom pace or itinerary, our private tours are fully flexible. They generally include the city tour and Exit Glacier, but can be tailored entirely to your group’s needs, with extended time at Exit glacier if desired. Traveling with a mix of ages or abilities? We’ll build the day around you.

Tips Before You Go

• Dress in layers. Conditions near the glacier can be cool and breezy even in summer.
  
• Wear sturdy footwear. The lower trails are well-maintained; it gets rockier as you near the ice.
  
• Go earlier in the day. Crowds build in the afternoon, especially when ships are in port.
  
• Read the retreat markers. They’re spread along the lower trail and tell the glacier’s story better than any photo could.

See It While It’s Here

Exit Glacier isn’t a postcard. It’s a living record of change — and visiting it with that understanding makes all the difference. The forest you walk through grew up where ice once stood. The valley stretching back from the glacier’s edge is decades of retreat made visible. It’s a lot to take in, and it means more when you’re not worried about logistics.

Let us handle the driving and the context. You focus on the glacier.

Book your tour with Seward City Tours today →