Climb the ice walls of Root Glacier with no experience required
9 hours
Guide, Crampons and Boots
Challenge yourself on a guided ice-climbing day on the Root Glacier near McCarthy. You’ll hike out to the glacier, then climb up to 75 feet at a time in a mixed-ability group.
You must be in good physical condition. Lunch and snacks are not provided unless you purchased Snack Packs. A guide gratuity is customary; if not prepaid, you can tip by cash or credit card on the day of your trip (typical 10–20%).
Full refund up to 48 hours before the trip start. No refunds within 48 hours of the start time. No-shows are charged the full price. Full refund if the operator cancels due to dangerous conditions.
Be in good physical condition. You’ll hike 5–6 miles total (including a 300-foot hill), handle a steep, loose rocky section near the glacier, and be physically capable of climbing up to 75 feet at one time.
Bring layered clothing, rain gear (jacket and pants), a warm sweater and/or jacket, hiking pants (no shorts), light gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking boots with ankle support (or sturdy walking shoes), a water bottle, a backpack, and lunch or snacks (unless you purchased Snack Packs).
You’ll be lent crampons and climbing boots.
12 Kennicott Millsite, McCarthy, AK 99588
The guides here clearly make all the difference. Reviewers consistently praise staff by name—Benjamin, Caroline, Stella, Pat, Roy, and many others—for their knowledge, professionalism, and genuine care. Whether it's someone helping a 75-year-old hiker manage the heat, bringing hot coffee to guests on a chilly glacier, or extending a tour when timing didn't match expectations, the personal attention stands out. The operation offers everything from Kennecott Mill tours to multi-day wilderness adventures, glacier hikes, ice cave explorations, and rafting trips. The experiences range from accessible half-day outings to seriously challenging multi-day treks that reviewers describe as "not for the faint of heart." Guests appreciate that guides adapt to their group's needs and abilities while keeping safety front and center. The mill tours get special mention for being both informative and entertaining, with access to restricted areas you can't see on your own. People leave with what one reviewer perfectly called "core memories"—the kind of Alaskan adventure that feels both thrilling and remarkably well-supported.
We took a private ice cave tour with St. Elias Alpine Guides, the guide was professional. The ice cave was gorgeous. Please choose them if you want to get some adventure there!
Roy Ma
October 18, 2025
We took a private ice cave tour with St. Elias Alpine Guides, the guide was professional. The ice cave was gorgeous. Please choose them if you want to get some adventure there!
Roy Ma
October 18, 2025