So, you’re thinking about hiking on a glacier—excellent choice! But now you’re faced with an icy dilemma: should you go for a half-day or a full-day adventure? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break it down so you can pick the perfect option for your style of adventure!
How do these hikes add up?
Real quick, let’s just look at the numbers. Here’s an easy comparison of some of the biggest differences between the two hikes – duration, distance, and group size.
The Starting Point: Same Same, But Different
Both the half-day and full-day hikes kick off at our Kennecott Office, where you’ll meet your guide and get fitted for crampons (like microspikes, but burlier). After that, we’ll hit the trail! The Root Glacier Trail starts just outside of Kennecott, leading you on a scenic 2-mile hike to the glacier’s edge. Along the way, you’ll pass a beautiful waterfall and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is moderate but uneven, featuring roots, rocks, and occasional puddles or mud. While most of the trail is relatively gentle, there are a few sections that get steep as you approach the ice. All in all, you’ll gain and lose about 300 feet of elevation, most of it happening in the last 1/2 mile, closest to the glacier.
No matter which hike you choose, everyone takes the same trail to and from the glacier, so you’ll all get to experience this stunning approach. Along the way, your guides will stop to discuss the flora, fauna, and geology of the landscape you’re seeing, and they’ll be happy to take your photo with that incredible view!
Now, here’s where the paths diverge—literally.
Half-Day Glacier Hike: Just a Taste of the Ice Life
If you’re up for an adventure but not quite ready to dedicate a full day to ice trekking, the Half-Day Glacier Hike is the perfect option. Once you step onto the glacier, you’ll cover about a mile on the ice (or more, depending on the group’s energy level and curiosity). Along the way, you’ll see stunning ice canyons, towering blue walls, and moulins—those mesmerizing vertical shafts that disappear into the depths of the ice. (Don’t worry, we’re not sending you down one.)
This hike is all about balance: your guide will make sure you cover ground and see the highlights, but also have time to snap photos, and enjoy a glacier-side lunch with a view. Your guide will tailor the experience to match your group’s pace and interests. The Half-Day Hike is the best option for younger kids, visitors who don’t consider themselves avid hikers, or those who want a taste of glacier trekking without committing a full day.
Full-Day Glacier Hike: Ice, Ice, Baby!
For those who prefer to go big or go home, the Full-Day Glacier Hike is the best way to get the most out of a glacier adventure day trip. Once you hit the ice, you’ll cover around 4+ miles, exploring deeper into the glacier’s wild and ever-changing landscape. With more time and fewer limits, your guide will lead you on a choose-your-own-adventure-style trek, navigating around deep crevasses, cascading waterfalls, and crystal blue pools. And yes, if you’re feeling brave, you can even take a dip—our version of a polar plunge, the Blue Pool Jump! The blue pool jump is only possible on the Full-Day Hike.
You’ll see many of the same cool formations as the Half-Day Hike, but going further means you get to witness even more dramatic ice features and remote, untouched scenery. This hike is perfect for those who are comfortable covering longer distances over varied terrain and want the full glacier experience.
What You’ll Get on Both Hikes
Views
No matter which adventure you choose, you’re in for breathtaking views of the towering 16,390-ft Mt. Blackburn and the incredible Stairway Icefall. On both hikes, you’ll see awesome glacial features ranging from windy blue rivers to tall canyon walls and deep crevasses. (You’ll see a larger variety on the Full-Day Hike and just some highlights on a Half-Day Hike.
Information
Your guide will also share information on how glaciers shape the land around them, the local ecology, and the human history of the area. You’ll leave not only with epic photos but also with a newfound appreciation for the landscape and its natural and human history.
Lunch and Breaks
Both hikes include an opportunity for lunch. Your guide will find a beautiful location with great views to sit down and enjoy a lunch or snacks that you brought with you. (Lunch is not provided by St. Elias Alpine Guides, but snack packs are available for purchase at the office.) Throughout both hikes, you’ll have opportunities to change your layers, grab a drink or water or a snack, tie your shoes, and take photos.
What About Ice Climbing?
If you’re craving an even more hands‑on glacier adventure, the Ice Climbing trip might be your perfect match. This is a full‑day activity and can’t be combined with the Half‑Day or Full‑Day Glacier Hikes—it’s dedicated entirely to climbing rather than sightseeing.
After extra gear fitting, your guide will set up secure anchors at each climbing area. You’ll typically visit two different climbing spots: one beginner‑friendly for learning technique and another that’s more challenging and exciting.
If you only have one day and want a more athletic, vertical experience, ice climbing is the way to go. You’ll see about as much of the glacier as on the Half‑Day Hike, but spend your time ascending beautiful walls of blue ice.
If you have multiple days, consider pairing a Full‑Day Glacier Hike with an Ice Climbing day. The approach trail will be familiar, but the experiences are completely different—one focuses on exploration, the other on climbing.
No climbing experience is required. The tour is beginner‑friendly, fun, and a unique way to experience the Root Glacier up close.
Pro Tips for Your Glacier Adventure
- Consider a Private Hike: If you’re traveling with a group or just want to go at your own pace, private hikes are a fantastic option. Your guide can customize the experience entirely to your interests and abilities. Private hikes are recommended for avid photographers, families traveling with smaller children, hikers with injuries or limited physical abilities, or anyone with special interests like birding or content creation.
- Pair the Half-Day Hike with History: If you want to make the most of your time in Kennecott, consider combining the Half-Day Glacier Hike with the 2-hour Historic Kennecott Mill Town Tour. It’s a great way to experience both adventure and history in a single day!
- Dress for the Elements: We go out rain or shine, so wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and bring a variety of layers. It’s common to shed layers or add them back on throughout the day, so be prepared! Check out the equipment list for both hikes here.
TLDR: Half-Day or Full-Day Glacier Hike?
- Go for the Half-Day if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure that’s accessible, exciting, and keeps your afternoon free.
- Opt for the Full-Day if you’re an avid hiker, all about getting the most out of your glacier experience, and want to explore as much as possible.
Either way, you can’t go wrong—both hikes promise a day of adventure, incredible scenery, and memories that will last a lifetime. The only real question is: are you ready to get your glacier on?
Book your hike with St. Elias Alpine Guides today and let’s hit the ice!
written by Samantha Prien
updated 11/2025
Check out our other Travel Tips for more great info!
