Nestled deep within the Wrangell St. Elias National Park, just a scenic hike from Anchorage, lies the captivating Root Glacier – a prime destination for the intrepid ice climber. This exhilarating 8-hour adventure, priced from £138.78 per person, offers participants a chance to learn essential techniques and tackle vertical ice walls under the guidance of experienced professionals. With all necessary equipment provided, adventurers of any skill level can embark on an unforgettable journey, scaling the frozen landscapes and even navigating the depths of a glacier moulin. But the true allure lies in the breathtaking vistas that await those who dare to venture onto the ice.
Key Points
- The ice climbing adventure takes place in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, accessible from Anchorage, and lasts 8 hours.
- Participants will learn essential ice climbing techniques from experienced guides and climb vertical ice walls and a glacier moulin.
- The tour includes a scenic 2-mile hike through the national park, and all necessary equipment is provided.
- Private trips are available for advanced learners to climb at their own pace.
- Proper personal gear, such as rain gear and sturdy hiking boots, is required for the adventure.
About the Activity
Ice climbing on Root Glacier in Wrangell St. Elias National Park is an exhilarating outdoor adventure that lasts 8 hours.
Priced from £138.78 per person, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Participants can reserve now and pay later.
The highlights include climbing vertical ice walls suitable for all skill levels, learning ice climbing basics from experienced guides, and climbing out of a glacier moulin.
Guests also enjoy a scenic 2-mile hike through the national park. Private trips are available for advanced learning at one’s own pace.
The guided tour provides a live English-speaking guide, a comprehensive introduction to ice climbing techniques, and a safe, fun, and supportive environment for skill mastery.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Wrangell.
Highlights of the Experience
Numerous highlights await adventurous travelers during the ice climbing experience on Root Glacier. Participants can scale vertical ice walls suitable for all skill levels, learning essential ice climbing techniques from experienced guides.
The exhilaration of climbing out of a glacier moulin is a unique highlight. Enjoy a scenic 2-mile hike through the breathtaking Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
For advanced learners, private trips offer the opportunity to progress at their own pace in a safe, fun, and supportive environment.
With roundtrip transportation and all necessary equipment provided, this full-day excursion is an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and adrenaline seekers alike.
Tour Guide and Safety
Experienced and knowledgeable guides lead the ice climbing excursions on Root Glacier. These skilled professionals are fluent in English and provide a comprehensive introduction to ice climbing techniques. They create a safe, fun, and supportive environment for skill mastery, ensuring participants’ safety throughout the adventure.
| Tour Guide Credentials | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Fluent in English | Comprehensive introduction to ice climbing |
| Experienced | Safe, fun, and supportive environment |
| Knowledgeable | Skill mastery |
The guides’ expertise and dedication enable participants to confidently tackle the ice walls, climb out of the glacier moulin, and fully enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Gear and Inclusions
The tour operator provides all the necessary equipment for the ice climbing adventure on Root Glacier. This includes a rope, harness, helmet, climbing boots, crampons, and ice tools.
Participants, however, must bring their own personal gear such as rain gear, hiking boots, trekking poles, a backpack, as well as food and water.
The provided equipment ensures a safe and enjoyable experience, allowing clients to focus on learning and mastering the techniques of ice climbing.
With the top-notch gear and experienced guides, the tour offers a comprehensive introduction to this thrilling winter activity in the stunning Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyMeeting Location and Timing
The meeting location for the ice climbing adventure on Root Glacier is 12 Kennicott Millsite, Kennecott, AK 99588.
Participants should check availability for starting times and make sure they’ve selected the appropriate option. Once confirmed, they’ll meet the experienced, English-fluent guide at the designated spot.
From there, the group will embark on a scenic 2-mile hike through the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park before reaching the glacier.
All necessary equipment, including rope, harness, helmet, climbing boots, crampons, and ice tools, will be provided.
Participants need to bring their own personal gear, such as rain gear, hiking boots, trekking poles, backpack, food, and water.
Getting to the Glacier
After meeting at the designated location, participants embark on a scenic 2-mile hike through the stunning Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Along the way, they’ll take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The trail leads directly to the Root Glacier, where the ice climbing adventure begins.
Experienced guides provide instructions and assistance, ensuring participants’ safety and enjoyment throughout the journey. The hike offers a perfect warm-up for the physical challenge ahead, allowing climbers to enjoy the stunning natural environment.
With each step, the anticipation builds as they approach the glacier, ready to conquer the icy walls and create unforgettable memories.
Ice Climbing Techniques
With the hike complete, participants then receive a comprehensive introduction to ice climbing techniques from their experienced guides.
Guides first demonstrate proper crampon and ice tool use, teaching climbers how to efficiently step and swing the tools into the ice. Participants then practice these techniques on a beginner’s ice wall, gradually progressing to more challenging vertical sections.
Throughout the experience, guides provide encouragement and ensure safety, allowing climbers to build confidence and master the necessary skills.
The exhilarating ascent out of a glacial moulin caps off the day’s adventures, leaving participants with a profound appreciation for the art of ice climbing.
Preparing for the Adventure
Preparing for the adventure begins with ensuring participants have the proper personal gear. Hikers should pack rain gear, sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, a backpack, and enough food and water for the day. A detailed packing list is provided below:
| Item | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Rain Gear | Waterproof jacket and pants | Essential for staying dry |
| Hiking Boots | Sturdy, ankle-supporting boots | Crucial for traction on the glacier |
| Trekking Poles | Adjustable poles for stability | Helpful for the 2-mile hike |
| Backpack | Comfortable, well-fitting pack | Needed to carry personal items |
| Food & Water | Enough for the 8-hour excursion | Vital for maintaining energy and hydration |
Participants should also check the weather and prepare accordingly, as conditions can change quickly in the Alaskan wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Difficult Is the Ice Climbing Activity?
The ice climbing activity is suitable for all skill levels. Beginners can learn the basics from experienced guides, while more advanced participants can challenge themselves at their own pace on the vertical ice walls.
Can I Bring My Own Equipment Instead?
Participants can bring their own equipment, but it must be approved by the experienced guides. The provided equipment is included in the price and ensures a safe, standardized experience for all skill levels.
What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?
The average group size for the ice climbing tour on Root Glacier is not specified. However, the tour is offered in a private format for advanced learners to progress at their own pace.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements?
The experience has no specific age or fitness requirements. However, participants should be in good physical condition and comfortable with hiking on uneven terrain. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Can I Buy Additional Equipment On-Site?
No, participants cannot purchase additional equipment on-site. All necessary gear, including rope, harness, helmet, climbing boots, crampons, and ice tools, is provided. Participants must bring their own personal gear like rain gear, hiking boots, and backpack.
Recap
Embark on an exhilarating ice climbing adventure in Wrangell St. Elias National Park, just a scenic hike from Anchorage. Tackle vertical ice walls, learn essential techniques, and even climb out of a glacier moulin. With professional instruction, all necessary equipment, and breathtaking landscapes, this 8-hour tour promises an unforgettable experience for climbers of all skill levels.
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