In short
- The Exit Glacier entry fee is $0.
- Parking at the Nature Center is free.
- The 12-site tent campground is free to use.
In this article
You can hike the lower trails and the Harding Icefield Trail without paying a park admission fee. Budgeting for your visit only requires planning for transport, gear, or guided tours.
Is there an Exit Glacier entry fee?
No. Kenai Fjords National Park does not charge an entrance fee for the Exit Glacier area.
You can walk up to the glacier or hike the Harding Icefield Trail for free. This makes it an affordable stop when traveling down the Seward Highway.
How much does parking cost at Exit Glacier?
Parking at the Exit Glacier Nature Center is completely free.
The parking lot is located at the end of Herman Leirer Road, about 8.6 miles from the highway turnoff. Spaces are limited during peak summer months, so arrive early to secure a free spot.
Do I have to pay to camp at Exit Glacier?
No. The 12-site campground is free on a first-come, first-served basis.
This walk-in, tent-only campground has strict food storage regulations to prevent attracting bears. You cannot reserve sites in advance.
Are there paid guided tours at Exit Glacier?
Yes. While park entry is free, guided hikes and transportation packages cost extra.
If you prefer an expert guide or need transport from Seward, several operators offer tours. These range from short nature walks to strenuous 8-hour ice hikes. Tour prices change based on the platform and season.
Does it cost money to visit Exit Glacier in winter?
Winter access is free, but you cannot drive to the trails.
The access road closes to cars from late fall to mid-May. Visitors must travel 8 or more miles from the closure gate via cross-country skiing, fat-tire biking, or snowshoeing.
What other expenses should I plan for?
You will need to pay for your own gear and food.
There are no food vendors or gear rentals on the trail. You must bring essentials like bear spray, sturdy hiking boots, and high-energy snacks.
Questions travellers ask
Do you have to pay to get into Exit Glacier?
No, there is no entrance fee. Kenai Fjords National Park does not charge visitors to access the Exit Glacier area.
Can I park my car at Exit Glacier for free?
Yes, parking at the Exit Glacier Nature Center lot is free, though space fills up quickly in July and August.
Are reservations required for the free campground?
No. The 12-site walk-in tent campground operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis.
