Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Prepare for sudden weather changes and steep trails. Knowing the park rules and parking situation will make your trip smoother.
Exit Glacier and Harding Icefield Trail
Herman Leirer Road, Seward, AK
GPS 60.18879, -149.631
Open directionsGetting there
The park is 20 minutes from Seward by car.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive the Seward Highway (AK-9) to mile 3, then turn onto Herman Leirer Road (commonly called Exit Glacier Road) and proceed 8.4-8.6 miles to the nature center parking lot. | 20 minutes from Seward | Free parking | Parking is limited in peak summer months. The road is not plowed in winter and is closed to cars from late fall to mid-May. |
| Walk: In the winter, when the road is closed to vehicles, visitors can access the area via cross-country skiing, fat-tire biking, or snowshoeing. | Varies by starting point | Free | Winter recreationists must travel 8+ miles just to reach the trailhead if starting from the road closure gate. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
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- S
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- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best hiking months are July and August. The access road is closed to cars from late fall to mid-May. In winter, you must travel 8 or more miles by ski or snowshoe just to reach the trailhead.
What to bring
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Bear spray is highly recommended for all hikes in the area.
Make noise and travel in groups.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to structure your time.
Explore the nature center and lower trails.
- Nature Center
Check trail conditions and bear activity reports.
- Glacier View Loop
Walk the 1-mile accessible loop for panoramic views.
- Glacier Overlook
Hike 1.8 miles round-trip to see the glacier's terminus.
A full-day trek to the icefield view.
- Start Hiking
Begin the steep ascent from the trailhead.
- Marmot Meadows
Reach the 1.4-mile mark for views over Exit Glacier.
- Top of the Cliffs
Pause at the 2.4-mile viewpoint for sweeping valley views.
- Icefield Viewpoint
Arrive at the end of the trail (4.1 miles) for lunch.
- Return
Finish the 8.2-mile round-trip descent.
Packing and Preparation
Weather changes rapidly near the glacier. You need sturdy waterproof hiking boots and rain gear. Avoid cotton clothing. Wear warm synthetic or wool layers instead. Pack sunscreen and sunglasses for the intense glare off the snow.
There are no water sources or restrooms on the Harding Icefield Trail. Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks. Trekking poles are highly recommended for the steep 3,500-foot elevation gain.
Easiest way to do it
Harding Icefield Trail Hiking Tour
8 h 5.0 (16)
- Deli-style lunch – turkey wrap, granola bar, and piece of fruit (dietary options available)
- Courtesy round-trip ground transportation from Seward to Kenai Fjords NP
- Trekking Poles
- Professional Guide
From$342per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can I bring my dog?
No. Pets are strictly prohibited on all trails. They are only allowed in the parking lot and on the main road, and must be leashed.
Is there camping?
Yes. There is a free 12-site walk-in, tent-only campground. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are bicycles allowed?
No. Bicycles are prohibited on all trails. You can ride them on the main road.