Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Prepare for 10-15 degree temperature drops and remote Alaskan backcountry conditions.
Getting there
Getting to the trailheads and tour bases.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive to Palmer and head down Knik River Road to reach trailheads and tour operators. | 1 hour from Anchorage | Free | Road ends before the glacier; onward travel requires off-road transport. |
| Tour: Take an ATV, monster truck, or airboat tour operating out of Palmer. | 3-8 hours | $100+ | A popular and reliable way to cross the rugged riverbed to the glacier face. |
| Tour: Flightseeing or helicopter tour from Anchorage or Palmer with optional glacier landings. | 1.5-3 hours | $300+ | Provides the most spectacular aerial views of the 25-mile ice field. |
| Walk: Hike or fat-tire bike the rugged trails or frozen river (in winter) from the Knik River Road end. | 4-8 hours | Free | About 8 miles each way; winter travel on the frozen river is popular but requires extreme caution. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The glacier is accessible year-round. Summer (May through September) is the primary season for ATV, Jeep, and airboat tours. Winter (December through March) freezes the Knik River, making it a popular route for fat-tire bikes and snowmobiles.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Prepare for no cell service.
Download trail maps and confirm pickup locations before leaving Palmer.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries for different transport modes.
A quick and scenic way to step directly onto the ice.
- Arrive at Lodge
Check in for your flight at the Palmer or Anchorage departure point.
- Flightseeing
Fly over the Chugach Mountains and the 25-mile Knik River valley.
- Glacier Landing
Step out onto the ice for 30 minutes of guided exploration.
- Return Flight
Arrive back at the lodge and continue your Alaska itinerary.
A full-day commitment utilizing Jeeps or ATVs followed by hiking.
- Depart Anchorage
Drive 1 hour east to Palmer and head down Knik River Road.
- Off-Road Journey
Travel the rugged riverbed trails by modified Jeep or ATV.
- Glacier Hike
Hike near the 400-foot ice walls and eat a packed lunch.
- Return Drive
Navigate the muddy or rocky trails back to the trailhead.
- Finish
Arrive back in Palmer for dinner.
What to Pack
Temperatures near Knik Glacier drop by 10 to 15 degrees compared to the surrounding Mat-Su Valley. Bring a windproof outer shell and layer heavily, even in summer. Independent hikers must carry bear spray and plenty of high-energy snacks.
Sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes from snow and ice glare. If you book a helicopter landing, operators typically provide micro-spikes to slip over your sturdy, waterproof boots.
Easiest way to do it
Knik Glacier Off Roading and Hiking
9 h 5.0 (12)
- Hiking Cleats
From$399per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can you drive to Knik Glacier?
No. You can drive from Anchorage to Palmer and take Knik River Road to its end. From there, you must use off-road transport, a boat, or hike the remaining 8 miles.
How far is Knik Glacier from Anchorage?
The glacier is located about 50 miles east of Anchorage. The drive to the trailheads in Palmer takes approximately one hour.
Are there bears near Knik Glacier?
Yes. The Knik River Valley is deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Hikers and bikers traveling the trails should carry bear spray and make noise while moving.