How old is Exit Glacier?
Scientists have found an ice field in Antarctica which they estimate to be 1.5 million years old! Exit Glacier is young by comparison. It’s part of the Harding Ice Field, which has only been around for about 23,000 years.
How tall is the Exit Glacier?
3100 – 3200 ft
Elevation: 3100+ feet, 945+ meters
| Elevation Info: | Elevation range: 3100 – 3200 ft (100-foot closed contour) |
|---|---|
| Latitude/Longitude (WGS84) | 60° 10′ 39” N, 149° 42′ 17” W 60.177594, -149.704771 (Dec Deg) |
| Country | United States |
| State/Province | Alaska |
| County/Second Level Region | Kenai Peninsula |
Why is it named Exit Glacier?
The Exit name comes from the pioneering 1968 ski traverse across the Harding Icefield by an expedition party that included Alaska homesteader Yule Kilcher, the grandfather of singer Jewel Kilcher. The group used the glacier to exit the icefield, and the name stuck.
How was Exit Glacier formed?
Alpine glaciers, like Exit Glacier, form when more snow falls on mountain peaks during the year than melts during the summer. As the snow pack builds up and thickens, its weight compresses the snow beneath and turns it to ice. As more and more snow and ice accumulate, the glacier grows.
Can you touch Exit Glacier?
The brochures need to be updated…you are not able to touch the glacier unless you do like the 8 mile hike up the mountain. it is a very rough path you follow, would only recommend to those in good shape.
Does Exit Glacier close?
Seasons. The Exit Glacier Area is open year-round. Upon the arrival of snow, usually in mid-November, the road to Exit Glacier is inaccessible to cars, due to a state road closure, but open to winter recreation, including snowmobiles, dogsleds, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and fat bikes.
Is Exit Glacier still there?
The Exit Glacier Area is open year-round.
How long is Exit Glacier hike?
2.2 mile
Exit Glacier Overlook Trail is a 2.2 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Seward, Alaska that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips.
How long does Exit Glacier hike take?
Exit Glacier Overlook Trail is a 2.2 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Seward, Alaska that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips.
How difficult is Exit Glacier hike?
Difficulty Rating: This trail is easy, mostly paved and very popular, and once you reach an amazing viewpoint overlooking the Exit Glacier, you will understand why.
Where is the Exit Glacier in Alaska located?
Exit Glacier is a glacier derived from the Harding Icefield in the Kenai Mountains of Alaska and one of Kenai Fjords National Park’s major attractions. It is one of the most accessible valley glaciers in Alaska and is a visible indicator of glacial recession due to climate change.
How did the Exit Glacier get its name?
It received its name for serving as the exit for the first recorded crossing of the Harding Icefield in 1968. In the spring of 1968, the first documented mountaineering party succeeded in crossing the Harding Icefield.
How long is the walk to Exit Glacier?
Ranger programs. Ranger-led walks to Exit Glacier are available at 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 2 pm daily during the summer season. These walks are approximately 1–2 hours long.
Where is the parking lot at Exit Glacier?
Turn on to Herman Leirer Road, commonly called “Exit Glacier Road,” at mile 3 of the Seward Highway (AK-9). Proceed 8.4 miles. The road will end at the parking lot for the nature center. Note: There is limited parking at Exit Glacier, especially during the hours of 10:30 am – 3:30pm.
