Your moderately challenging hike and tour starts with a short drive along the expansive Matanuska River. Wide, wild, and ever-changing, this glacially fed river provides the perfect opportunity to discuss the dynamic glacial landscape of the Matanuska Valley. Your tour will make a brief stop at a gravel bar to discuss how glaciers have carved and continue to shape the area before heading on to the trail.
Striking views of glacial valleys.
The hike starts from a well-maintained trailhead and ascends about a mile through boreal forest. Along the way, your guide points out glacial features and discusses how the monumental forces of ancient ice have even influenced the region's identity as an agricultural hub for the state. Once at your summit, you'll spend time enjoying views of the Chugach Mountains, Talkeetna Mountains and, if the weather permits, the Knik Glacier. The striking view of the valley from this high point brings the geology lessons learned to life.
After time for photos and a snack, you'll head back down the trail you ascended. The tour concludes with a drop off back at the Palmer Visitor Center and Museum.
Hiking location varies based on current conditions and the group. Regardless of location, expect a moderately strenuous hike. This is a small group tour with no more than five guests per guide. Total tour time is 3.5 hours.
This hiking tour is also offered with a transfer from Alaska Glacier Lodge.
This adventure departs rain or shine. Be prepared with a backpack, layers, warm socks, full rain gear, hiking shoes, a warm hat, gloves, and a camera.
This is a moderately strenuous hiking excursion. Guests must be able to walk on uneven ground for up to four miles with an average elevation gain of 800 to 1000 feet.
The 3.5-hour Rocks, Rivers, and Glaciers Hike picks up and drops off guests at the Palmer Visitor Center and Museum.
Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.
Child rate applies to guests 12 and younger. Children must be at least 8 years old to participate.
| Dates | Adult | Child |
|---|---|---|
| 5/15/25 (Th) to 9/30/25 (Tu)5/15/25 (Th) to 9/30/25 (Tu) | Adult: $149.00 | Child: $129.00 |
| The rates above are subject to change without notice. | ||
Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.
| Depart | Location |
|---|---|
| Depart: 9:00 AM | Location: Palmer Visitor Center and Museum |
| Depart | Location |
|---|---|
| Depart: 3:00 PM | Location: Palmer Visitor Center and Museum |
Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.
"Our guide was great. She really seems to love her job and went out of her way to make sure everyone was enjoying themselves. "
~Marjorie from Detroit, MI~
