CHICKALOON: This morning brings one of the most scenic drives in the state. As you head north to Chickaloon, an overlook stop reveals the Knik Glacier in its full glory. The Matanuska River winds its way north beside us, cutting a cavern of beauty through the Matanuska Valley.

Next, you will have the option of choosing between two types of river rafting, slow float or white water. The “Glacier Run” float trip is great for relaxed sightseeing and photo opportunities. This easily negotiable class II water makes it a great way to experience rafting and the great outdoors. This raft excursion lasts 2 ½ hours.

The “Lion’s Head” raft trip offers the roar of whitewater. This is an excellent first-timers whitewater trip that is popular with experienced enthusiast as well. The most popular trip for over 28 years, this class III & IV whitewater experience offers you a hand-on adventure. This raft excursion lasts 3 ½ hours.

For those who do not choose to raft due to age or ability levels we offer another option. Your escort will be staying with the vehicle and you can choose to visit the Long Rifle Lodge with breath-taking views of the Matanuska Glacier, and enjoy some coffee or hot chocolate in their rustic, museum-like cafe. Many animal from bears to wolverines are on display.

Next it’s off for a bite to eat. Sheep Mountain Lodge offers some of the state’s infamous deserts like triple berry pie, glacier cookies or homemade carrot cake! This is also a popular viewing area for Dall sheep, so we will be stopping to view them with high-powered spotting scopes. We also provide binoculars on board.

Continuing on this afternoon, discover the true beauty of glaciers up close & personal. You will experience glacier walking or hiking and the natural history of the Matanuska Glacier. Enjoy the splendor of the “frozen river” as you walk out to a scenic lake hidden under the face of an ice fall. No experience is necessary to join in the fun! We provide ice “cramp-ons” to fit over standard tennis shoes or walking shoes. They are stretchy rubber so most shoes work. These are provided for adults and older children as they do not come in sizes small enough for children under 10 years old. We also provide walking sticks with an ice cleat on it, to help with stability on the ice. They are not required – just helpful. We do require that children under the age of 16 stay with their parents or guardians, as the glacier presents certain challenges that we are not responsible for. This is a guided walk. Or ask about our upgrade to a Helicopter Glacier Landing. This is a 45-minute scenic helicopter ride for 3 to a glacier pool on the Matanuska River that is only accessible by air. You have the chance to see wildlife and experience the glacier in a spot few have ever stepped foot on.  After the days fun this evening, a dinner stop in Palmer is offered before returning to your overnight accommodations.

View our preferred accommodations for this area:
Anchorage Metro-Area Lodging