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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,162 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
17.0 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
6-8.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Advanced (Diamond)
Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
Physical DIFF
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Harding Icefield

Harding Icefield
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Harding Icefield Trail is one of the best hikes in Alaska without a doubt. Take this trail to visit the overlook to the father of over 30 beautiful glaciers in Kenai Mountains – Harding Icefield. The expansive view of endless ice floor above the clouds will take your breath away!

Route Description for Harding Icefield

The Harding Icefield hike is a must-do hike in Kenai Mountains. The amazing views require some effort – the hike is strenuous with a lot of elevation gain. Make sure you are dressed properly, as the weather on top is often different than in the Exit Glacier area below. Strong winds, snow and storm are not uncommon here even after the sunniest mornings! Also, resist the urge to step on the icefield or glacier as it can be extremely dangerous. Your adventure will begin at Exit Glacier car park. Here you will be able to visit the nature center, fill your empty bottles and even use flush toilets. You will find the Exit Glacier trailhead at the western part of the carpark, near the nature center. Go towards Exit Glacier for around 0.3mi until you find the Harding Icefield Trailhead on your right. You will start ascending through bushy terrain. Soon you will emerge above the treeline with the first overlook to Harding Icefield. Enjoy the view and carry on towards the glacier. Hike a bit further and in rocky alpine meadow you will reach another overlook – this time even closer. Lastly, you will traverse along the hillside and descend to get right next to the Harding Icefield itself. The endless icefield scene will take your breath away. If you decide to spend some time here, you might even notice the very slow movement of ice, slowly approaching the edges of the icefield and pouring from one of over 30 glaciers. Return the same way you came.

Insider Hints for Harding Icefield

  • Visit Exit Glacier overlook, which is easily accessible by the trail from the Exit Glacier carpark
  • Spend a night at Exit Glacier Campground to beat the crowds
  • Visit Exit Glacier Nature Centre to check the weather conditions before the hike.
  • Visit Alaska SeaLife Center at Seward to learn about Alaskan marine fauna

Getting to the Harding Icefield Trailhead

Reach Seward Village by heading south on AK-1, then State Highway 9. Take a turn on your right to Herman Leirer Rd. and drive 7.1mi until you reach a big Exit Glacier car park.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    June - October

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Harding Icefield Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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