3.0
(7)
66
hikers
Glacier View Loop Trail
01:13
3.71km
160m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike along the Glacier View Loop Trail, a 2.3-mile (3.7 km) route that offers stunning perspectives of the Alaskan wilderness. You will gain 531 feet (162 metres) in elevation over approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes, making it a gentle journey suitable for most. As you hike, you will encounter clear views of the vast Outwash Plain and the surrounding cottonwood forests. The trail provides an intimate look at Exit Glacier, flowing majestically from the Harding Icefield. Keep an eye out for markers indicating the glacier's historical retreat, a poignant reminder of its changing landscape.
Accessing the Glacier View Loop Trail is straightforward, as the Exit Glacier area is the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park reachable by road. You will find ample parking available directly at the trailhead, which is also home to the Exit Glacier Nature Center. This route is quite popular, especially during peak season, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid potential crowds. Starting your hike earlier in the day can often provide a more serene experience.
This trail offers a unique opportunity to witness the dynamic forces of nature at work, showcasing the dramatic retreat of Exit Glacier over time. The area is a prime example of glacial geology, with the Outwash Plain providing a clear illustration of the glacier's impact on the landscape. Its accessibility, including being wheelchair-friendly, makes it a standout option for many visitors to experience the glacier up close. This trail serves as an excellent introduction to the diverse ecosystems within Kenai Fjords National Park.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
126 m
Exit Glacier Nature Center
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
596 m
Glacier outflow viewpoints
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
1.93 km
Glacier floodplain
Highlight • Natural
The other hazard to be aware of is that sometimes ice falling off the glacier creates a dam that blocks the meltwater from the glacier. Eventually that ice thaws and the meltwater comes rushing out in a flash flood, which would be very dangerous if you were on this plain. Do not count on warning signs being posted about this possibility; it can happen at any time.
Tip by
2.08 km
Exit Glacier
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
2.92 km
Glacier View Loop Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.71 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.48 km
193 m
Surfaces
1.81 km
1.51 km
170 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (290 m)
Lowest point (130 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 8 May
6°C
1°C
77 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to hike the Glacier View Loop Trail?
The Glacier View Loop Trail is a relatively short and easy hike. Most visitors can complete the 3.7-kilometer (approximately 1-mile) loop in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, allowing time to enjoy the views and read the interpretive signs.
Is the Glacier View Loop Trail suitable for beginners or families with young children?
Yes, this trail is ideal for beginners, families, and visitors of all ages. It is described as easy, flat, and even wheelchair-accessible, making it a great option for a leisurely stroll to see the glacier.
What is the terrain like on the Glacier View Loop Trail?
The trail is generally flat and well-maintained, leading through a lush cottonwood forest and along a creek bed. While some sections may be paved, it's consistently easy to navigate, offering a smooth experience for hikers.
Where does the Glacier View Loop Trail start, and is parking available?
The trail is located in the Exit Glacier area of Kenai Fjords National Park. It starts near the Exit Glacier Nature Center. Ample parking is available at the trailhead, which is the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park accessible by road.
What can I see along the Glacier View Loop Trail?
Hikers are treated to panoramic views of Exit Glacier and its Outwash Plain. You'll also pass through a beautiful cottonwood forest and along a glacier floodplain. Look for Glacier outflow viewpoints offering stunning perspectives.
Are there any unique educational features on the trail?
Yes, a notable feature of the trail is the series of glacier recession markers. These signs indicate the glacier's position in different years, providing a powerful visual demonstration of its retreat over time and offering insight into climate change. You can also observe how plant life reclaims the land left behind by the glacier.
What is the best time of year to hike the Glacier View Loop Trail?
The best time to visit is typically during the summer months (June to early September) when the weather is mild, and the trail is fully accessible. The cottonwood forests also offer beautiful colors in late summer and early fall.
Are dogs allowed on the Glacier View Loop Trail?
Dogs are generally permitted on the Glacier View Loop Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check the latest regulations with Kenai Fjords National Park before your visit, as rules can change.
Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for the Glacier View Loop Trail or Kenai Fjords National Park?
There is no entrance fee specifically for the Exit Glacier area or the Glacier View Loop Trail. However, as it's located within Kenai Fjords National Park, standard national park regulations apply. While there isn't a fee to enter this specific area, it's always wise to check the official NPS website for any updates on park passes or regulations for other areas of the park.
Does the Glacier View Loop Trail connect to other trails?
Yes, while a pleasant loop on its own, this trail serves as a gateway to more strenuous options. It connects to trails like the Glacier Overlook Trail and the Harding Icefield Trail, offering opportunities for longer and more challenging hikes for those seeking further adventure.
What makes the Glacier View Loop Trail particularly accessible for all visitors?
The trail is renowned for its accessibility, being largely flat and well-maintained, with some sections even paved. This design ensures that it is suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and visitors with varying mobility levels, allowing a wide range of people to experience the stunning glacier views.
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Trail Reviews
Very beautiful, clean, informative, well-designed, maintained, and secured. It can get very crowded with tourist buses. We were there late in the evening and enjoyed the evening atmosphere.