Pros & cons
PROS
- High perch over Exit Glacier and the outwash plain
- Logical turnaround spot before the upper Harding Icefield
CONS
- Reached via the trail’s steepest switchbacks
- No facilities on site
Overview
Top of the Cliffs is a named viewpoint on the Harding Icefield Trail above Exit Glacier. It sits high over the valley, giving you that big, vertiginous perspective without committing to the full push to the icefield.
Where it is on the trail
You’ll reach it after climbing past Marmot Meadows. The National Park Service calls the stretch between Marmot Meadows and Top of the Cliffs the steepest part of the Harding Icefield Trail, with many switchbacks. Expect to earn the view.
What you’ll see
From this bluff you look down on Exit Glacier’s lower reaches and the braided outwash plain, with the surrounding Kenai Mountains framing the scene. It’s a distinctly elevated angle compared to the lower valley viewpoints, so the scale of the glacier and its moraines really pops on clear days.
Why stop here
Plenty of hikers use Top of the Cliffs as their high point before turning around. It delivers dramatic views without the time and effort of reaching the upper, higher sections toward the icefield.
Trail character and timing
The approach is sustained and switchbacked, and it can be muddy or rocky in places. In early summer, snow can linger higher up the route beyond this point. Start early for cooler temps, fewer people, and softer light.
Wildlife
Hikers along this corridor sometimes spot marmots and, on occasion, mountain goats or black bears at a distance. Keep your space and give wildlife the right of way.
Know before you go
There are no amenities at the overlook—no water, toilets, or seating. Services cluster at the Exit Glacier Nature Center and campground near the trailhead. Weather shifts fast at this exposed perch; bring layers and be cautious near drop-offs.
Safety notes
The climb is the steepest on the trail and edges can be loose—stay back from the rim. Cell service is unreliable; check current conditions with the NPS and carry the essentials.
Where it is
60.1841, -149.6377Tips for Top of the Cliffs Overlook
- 01Start early; the steep switchbacks are easier in cool morning temps.
- 02There are no facilities at the overlook—use restrooms at the Nature Center.
- 03Pack layers and keep back from the cliff edge; winds can be gusty.
- 04Snow can linger higher on the route in early summer; check NPS conditions.
- 05Download offline maps since cell service is unreliable.
Amenities
Near Top of the Cliffs Overlook
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayHarding Icefield OverlookEnd-of-trail perch over a 700-square-mile sea of iceScenic Viewpoint
0.3 mi awayExit Glacier Nature CenterTrailhead hub with exhibits and easy walks to a roadside glacierVisitor Center · Exhibit
0.3 mi awayExit Glacier OverlookShort hike to a front-row view of a retreating glacierScenic Viewpoint · Trailhead
0.3 mi awayGlacier ViewEasy loop to a front-row view of Exit GlacierTrailhead · Restroom
0.4 mi awayHarding Icefield TrailSteep climb above Exit Glacier to a vast, unforgettable icefield viewChallenging · 8.2 mi · 7 hr
0.4 mi awayGlacier Overlook TrailShort, view-rich climb to sweeping views of Exit Glacier.Easy · 1.8 mi · 1.3 hr
0.4 mi awayEdge of the Glacier TrailEasy walk to Exit Glacier’s icy terminus and retreat markersEasy · 2 mi · 1.3 hr
0.4 mi awayGlacier View LoopEasy, paved loop to a broad view of Exit Glacier from valley.Easy · 1.1 mi · 30 min
