Exploring the Harding Icefield Trail: A Hiker's Paradise

Alaska | Trail Reviews

High Point:
4,100 feet (1,250 meters)

Total Ascent:
3,198 ft

Difficulty:
Very Difficult

Distance:
8.2 miles (13.2 km)

Route Type:
Out and Back

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Experience the ultimate hiking adventure on Alaska’s Harding Icefield Trail. This challenging 8.2-mile trek offers breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and a rewarding glimpse of the vast, icy expanse of the Harding Icefield.

Overview

The Harding Icefield Trail is an awe-inspiring 8.2-mile (13.2 km) out-and-back hike situated in the heart of Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska. This trail offers adventurers a chance to experience an unparalleled view of the Harding Icefield, one of the largest icefields in North America. Best attempted from late summer to early fall, this trail is considered very difficult due to its steep ascent and challenging terrain. With an elevation gain of 3,198 feet, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the icefield, reminiscent of ancient ice ages.

Starting at the Exit Glacier Area, the trail meanders through diverse ecosystems, including lush cottonwood and alder forests, picturesque heather-filled meadows, and stark, rocky alpine zones. The journey culminates in a panoramic view of the Harding Icefield, a vast expanse of ice and snow that stretches to the horizon, punctuated only by isolated peaks known as nunataks.

Read our complete Alaska travel guide here.

Exit Glacier

Directions to Trailhead

To reach the Harding Icefield Trailhead, head towards Seward, a picturesque town located at the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Seward is accessible via the Seward Highway (AK-9) from Anchorage, approximately a 2.5-hour drive.

From Anchorage:
- Take the Seward Highway (AK-1) south for about 125 miles (201 km) to the junction with AK-9.
- Continue on AK-9 for about 20 miles (32 km) into Seward.
In Seward:
- Follow signs to the Exit Glacier Area, located approximately 12 miles (19 km) from downtown Seward.
- Turn onto Herman Leirer Road (commonly known as Exit Glacier Road) and drive until you reach the Exit Glacier Nature Center parking lot.
- The Harding Icefield Trailhead begins near the Exit Glacier Nature Center.

Parking is available at the Nature Center, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. It is advisable to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot.

Places to Stay

Whether you’re seeking rustic camping experiences or comfortable lodging, the Seward area offers a range of accommodations to suit every preference.

Campgrounds

Exit Glacier Campground:
- Located near the trailhead, this campground offers a convenient base for hikers.
- Amenities include basic facilities like restrooms and picnic tables.
- Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Stoney Creek RV Park:
- Situated a short drive from the trailhead, this RV park provides full hookups and tent sites.
- Amenities include showers, laundry facilities, and a small convenience store.

Lodging

Seward Windsong Lodge:
- Located along Exit Glacier Road, this lodge offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the trailhead.
- The lodge features a restaurant, bar, and shuttle service to the trailhead.
Hotel Seward:
- A historic hotel located in downtown Seward, offering a range of room options from budget to luxury.
- Conveniently situated near dining and shopping options.
Alaska’s Point of View:
- A charming bed and breakfast in Seward, offering cozy rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Ideal for those seeking a more personalized lodging experience.

Trail Description

The Harding Icefield Trail is a strenuous hike that requires proper preparation and physical fitness. Here’s a detailed description of what you can expect along the trail:

Section 1: Valley Floor to Forest

The first part of the trail is a relatively gentle ascent through a cottonwood and alder forest, covering the initial 1.5 miles and gaining around 500 feet in elevation. This section allows hikers to warm up as they traverse the well-maintained path, with the sounds of nearby streams and occasional wildlife sightings enhancing the experience.

Points of Interest

Exit Glacier Overlook: Early in the hike, you’ll encounter an overlook offering a close-up view of the Exit Glacier’s terminus. This is an excellent spot for photos and to marvel at the glacier’s blue ice.

Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for black bears, moose, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and never approach or feed wild animals.

Section 2: Forest to Meadows

As you continue, the trail begins to ascend more steeply, transitioning from forest to subalpine meadows filled with heather, wildflowers, and low shrubs. This section, about 1.5 miles long with a 1,000-foot elevation gain, features numerous switchbacks that help manage the steep climb.

Points of Interest

Heather Meadows: During late summer, these meadows are a colorful carpet of wildflowers like lupines and fireweed. This is a great spot for photography and appreciating the alpine flora.

Marmot and Pika Sightings: Listen for the distinctive whistles of marmots and the high-pitched calls of pikas. These small mammals are well-adapted to the alpine environment and can often be seen foraging among the rocks.

Section 3: Meadows to Cliffs

The trail continues to climb as you move from the meadows to more rugged and exposed areas, characterized by steep cliffs and rocky outcrops. This 2-mile section, with a 1,200-foot elevation gain, offers increasingly expansive views of the Harding Icefield in the distance.

Points of Interest

Cliffside Views: The trail skirts along steep cliffs, providing dramatic views of the valley below and the glaciers beyond. Be cautious, as the path can be narrow and uneven.

Nunataks: As you ascend, you’ll notice rocky peaks known as nunataks that protrude through the ice, offering a glimpse into the region’s glacial past.

Harding Icefield Trail, Kenai Fjords National Park.

Section 4: Cliffs to the Icefield

The final section of the trail brings you above the treeline into the alpine zone, where the vegetation thins out, and the landscape is dominated by rock and ice. This 1.2-mile stretch, with a 500-foot elevation gain, remains steep but rewards hikers with the ultimate view of the Harding Icefield.

Points of Interest

Alpine Zone: The transition to the alpine zone is marked by a stark change in scenery. The views become unobstructed, allowing for panoramic vistas of the icefield and surrounding peaks.

Harding Icefield View: The grand finale of the hike is the viewpoint overlooking the vast Harding Icefield. Stretching over 700 square miles, the icefield is a mesmerizing expanse of white, with peaks of nunataks rising through the ice.

Field Notes

Located within the stunning expanse of Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska, the Harding Icefield and Exit Glacier are remarkable natural wonders that offer a glimpse into the glacial history of North America. These features not only provide breathtaking vistas but also serve as vital indicators of climatic changes and natural processes.

The Harding Icefield

The Harding Icefield is one of the largest icefields in the United States, covering approximately 700 square miles. It is a remnant of the Pleistocene epoch, often referred to as the last Ice Age. The icefield’s vast, undulating surface of snow and ice stretches as far as the eye can see, interrupted only by rugged nunataks—peaks of mountains protruding through the ice.

The Harding Icefield is situated on the Kenai Peninsula and feeds more than 30 glaciers, including the Exit Glacier. It lies at an elevation of around 3,500 feet above sea level, with its highest peaks rising even higher. The icefield is primarily nourished by heavy snowfall, which accumulates over centuries. As the snow compacts into ice, it begins to flow outward due to the force of gravity, creating glaciers that move slowly toward lower elevations.

The Harding Icefield plays a crucial role in regulating the local climate. It acts as a massive reservoir of fresh water and influences weather patterns by affecting air temperature and moisture levels. The icefield’s vast expanse of white reflects sunlight, helping to moderate temperatures in the surrounding areas. However, it is also sensitive to climatic changes. The icefield and its glaciers have been retreating over the past few decades, serving as indicators of global warming.

Harding Ice Field in Kenai Fjords National Park near Seward, Alaska.

Exit Glacier

Exit Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness glacial processes up close. It descends from the Harding Icefield, stretching approximately 4 miles from its source to its terminus, where it melts and contributes to the flow of the Resurrection River.

Exit Glacier flows down the southeastern flank of the Harding Icefield. As the glacier descends, it carves a distinct U-shaped valley, characteristic of glacial erosion. The terminus of Exit Glacier is located at a relatively low elevation of about 300 feet above sea level, making it one of the few glaciers that visitors can easily approach and observe.

Visitors can access Exit Glacier via the Exit Glacier Road, which leads to a trailhead with various paths offering views of the glacier. The Harding Icefield Trail, an 8.2-mile round trip, provides hikers with the opportunity to experience the transition from lush valley floors, through dense forests and alpine meadows, to the stark, icy expanse of the icefield itself.

Exit Glacier significantly impacts the local ecosystem. As it retreats, it exposes new ground, allowing pioneer species to colonize and gradually establish a complex ecological succession. This process creates diverse habitats for plants and animals, contributing to the region’s biodiversity.

The Harding Icefield and Exit Glacier are awe-inspiring geological features that offer a window into Earth’s glacial past and present. Their geography, formed by centuries of snowfall and glacial movement, creates a dynamic landscape of ice, rock, and vegetation. As climate change continues to affect these natural wonders, they stand as both beautiful and poignant reminders of the delicate balance within our planet’s ecosystems. Visiting these sites provides a profound appreciation for the power of natural forces and the importance of preserving such incredible environments for future generations.

Trail Conditions

Seasonality: The trail is typically snow-covered until early July. Late summer to early fall is the best time to hike when the trail is mostly free of snow.
Avalanche Danger: Be aware of potential avalanche danger, especially in early summer. Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.
Trail Maintenance: The trail is well-maintained by park rangers and volunteers, but be prepared for rugged and steep sections.

Wildlife

Bears: Black bears and occasionally brown bears inhabit the area. Carry bear spray, make noise while hiking, and store food securely.
Mountain Goats: These agile animals are often seen on the cliffs and rocky areas.
Birds: Look out for ptarmigans, eagles, and other bird species along the trail.

Safety Tips

Weather: Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. Carry warm clothing, rain gear, and extra layers.
Sun Protection: The high elevation and reflective ice can intensify sunlight. Wear sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
Hydration: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person or bring a water filter to treat stream water.
Trail Etiquette: Stay on the designated trail to protect fragile alpine vegetation and reduce erosion.

Essential Gear

Sturdy hiking boots with good traction
Trekking poles for stability on steep sections
Warm clothing and rain gear
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Bear spray and a bear-proof food container
Ample water and snacks
A map, compass, and GPS device

Final Thoughts

The Harding Icefield Trail is a challenging yet immensely rewarding hike that offers a unique opportunity to witness one of Alaska’s most stunning natural wonders. The journey from the lush forests of the valley floor to the icy expanse of the Harding Icefield is an unforgettable experience that showcases the incredible diversity and beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park.

While the hike is strenuous and demands proper preparation, the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment at the summit make every step worthwhile. Whether you’re an experienced hiker seeking a thrilling adventure or a nature enthusiast eager to explore Alaska’s rugged wilderness, the Harding Icefield Trail promises an unforgettable journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth.

Embrace the challenge, respect the environment, and savor the unparalleled beauty of the Harding Icefield Trail. This trail is not just a hike; it’s a journey through time, revealing the ancient ice that has shaped the land and continues to captivate those who venture into its realm.

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