One of the most accessible and iconic Alaskan hikes, the Harding Ice Field trail is a steep ~4.5 mile switch backed ascent from the visitor center at Exit Glacier up to the ice field overlook. What makes this trail special is you follow the glacier from its terminus up to its source in the massive, ~700 square mile ice field. Only in Alaska can you start at close to sea level and ascend through at least three distinct vegetation zones with this kind of destination (thanks to the epic levels of snowfall and generally low temperatures).

You set out through a forested section with good wildlife viewing opportunities before emerging on the open rocky terrain filled seasonally with wild flowers. Finally the foliage thins still further and the trail remains steep as you emerge onto a hill overlooking the ice field itself.

We recommend leaving at least an hour at the top to eat lunch and explore the edge of the ice field. You can even camp there as well (check latest permitting rules before heading out). You can walk down to the edge and observe the amazing patterns and dynamic water flows in the constantly changing ice. Don't be tempted to actually walk on the ice unless you are prepared/knowledgeable.

Very good wildlife spotting opportunities. We saw plenty of marmots and magpies and ran into some others who had actually seen a black bear on the icefield.

Given the trail is close to Seward and very popular, expect plenty of company and shoot for an early start to have some more privacy at the top. For those who are not eager to take on this much vertical, there is a flatter loop to view the glacial terminus which leaves from the visitor center.