Harding Icefield Trail

Why go

This is the park’s signature leg-burner—and the payoff is enormous. You climb from forest to tundra to stand above Exit Glacier with a horizon of ice stretching for miles across the Harding Icefield. If you can handle a strenuous ascent, it’s one of Alaska’s most memorable day hikes.

What to expect

Start at the Exit Glacier Visitor Center and head onto a well-signed, out‑and‑back route through cottonwoods and alder before breaking into alpine meadows and rocky slopes. It’s about 8.2 miles total (round trip) with roughly 3,500 feet of gain, so plan on 6–8 hours. Early on you’ll peek at the blue ice of Exit Glacier; higher up, the views open wide to the valley, surrounding peaks, and finally the icefield. Expect interpretive signs along the way and a good chance of wildlife. Upper sections are quieter as fewer people push all the way to the top.

Season and safety

Snow can linger well into summer, especially near the top, and weather changes fast—wind, rain, or even snow are possible any month the trail is open. Bring layers, plenty of food and water (none available on the route), and trekking poles if snowfields remain. Bears are common (notably near Marmot Meadows); carry bear spray and make noise. Check current conditions with the NPS before you go, start early, and turn around if visibility or footing deteriorate.