Preparing for a glacier tour in Alaska is crucial for a comfortable and safe experience. The weather can be unpredictable, and the terrain is challenging. Therefore, dressing appropriately is essential. This guide will help you understand what to wear and bring along to ensure you are well-prepared for your adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Layering your clothing is essential for managing varying temperatures and staying dry.
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are crucial for navigating icy terrain safely.
- Accessories like hats, gloves, and sunglasses can significantly enhance your comfort and protection.
- A well-packed day pack with essentials like water, snacks, and safety gear is necessary.
- Adjust your clothing and gear based on the season to ensure maximum comfort and safety.
Layering Essentials for Glacier Tours
When you’re gearing up for a glacier tour in Alaska, layering is key to staying warm and comfortable. Let’s break down the essentials.
Base Layers for Moisture Management
The base layer is your first line of defense against the cold. It helps manage moisture, keeping you dry. I recommend wearing thermals made from materials like Merino wool or synthetic fabrics. These materials wick away sweat, ensuring you stay dry even when you’re working up a sweat on the ice.
Insulating Layers for Warmth
Next up is the insulating layer. This is what keeps you warm. Fleece jackets or micro-down coats are great options. They trap heat close to your body without adding too much bulk. You can easily switch between a fleece coat and a micro-down coat depending on how warm or cool you feel.
Outer Layers for Protection
Finally, the outer layer protects you from the elements. A good outer shell jacket, like a windbreaker or a rain jacket, is essential. This layer shields you from wind and rain, keeping you dry and comfortable. Remember, the most expensive jacket isn’t always the best; even an inexpensive one can do the job well.
Layering allows you to adjust your clothing based on the temperature and your activity level, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your glacier tour.
Footwear Recommendations for Glacier Terrain
Choosing the Right Hiking Boots
When you’re heading out on a glacier tour, good footwear is a must. You might not be allowed on the tour if your shoes aren’t up to par. For dry, frozen conditions, a solid pair of hiking boots or hiking shoes will do the trick. But if it’s wet and slushy, you’ll need waterproof rubber boots. XTRATUFs are a favorite here in Alaska, but any similar boots will work. Just make sure they’re waterproof!
Importance of Ice Cleats
Ice cleats are a game-changer on glacier tours. They give you the grip you need to walk safely on the ice. Without them, you might find yourself slipping and sliding all over the place. Most tour guides will provide these, but it’s always good to check ahead of time.
Socks for Glacier Tours
Don’t underestimate the power of good socks. Wool or synthetic socks are your best bet because they keep your feet warm even if they get wet. Cotton socks, on the other hand, are a no-go. They lose their warmth when wet, and trust me, you don’t want cold feet on a glacier. Brands like SmartWool and Darn Tough are well-respected and worth considering.
Accessories to Enhance Your Glacier Experience
When you’re gearing up for a glacier tour, the right accessories can make all the difference. Here are some must-haves to ensure you have a fantastic time on the ice.
Hats and Gloves
A warm hat and gloves are essential. Fleece hats are great because they fit well under helmets and keep you warm. Gloves or mittens will protect your hands from the cold, and you might want to bring an extra pair just in case.
Sunglasses and Sunscreen
The sun’s glare off the ice can be intense, so sunglasses are a must. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and lip balm to protect your skin from UV rays. Even on cloudy days, the reflection from the glacier can cause sunburn.
Hand and Foot Warmers
Hand and foot warmers are lifesavers when temperatures drop. They provide extra heat to keep your fingers and toes warm. Just follow the instructions on the packet for safe use.
A small day pack is perfect for carrying these items and any other personal gear you might need.
Packing the Perfect Day Pack
When you’re heading out for a glacier tour in Alaska, packing the right day pack is crucial. Here’s what you need to know to make sure you’re prepared for anything.
Essential Items to Carry
First off, you’ll need a small day pack to carry your essentials. It doesn’t have to be a huge mountaineering backpack; any regular-sized backpack will do. Here’s a quick list of must-haves:
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is key.
- Snacks: Pack some energy bars or trail mix.
- Sunscreen: Even on a glacier, you can get sunburned.
- Lip balm with SPF: Protect your lips from the sun and wind.
- Rain gear: A light shell jacket or raincoat can be a lifesaver.
- Warm layers: A fleece jacket or thermal shirt can help you stay warm.
- First aid kit: Just in case of minor injuries.
Safety Gear Provided by Guides
Most tour companies will provide some safety gear, so you don’t need to worry about bringing everything. Typically, they’ll supply:
- Ice cleats: For better traction on the ice.
- Helmets: Safety first!
- Hiking poles: These can help with balance and stability.
Optional Extras for Comfort
If you have a bit of extra space in your day pack, consider bringing these optional items to make your tour more comfortable:
- Hand and foot warmers: These can be a real comfort on colder days.
- Camera: Capture the stunning scenery.
- Binoculars: For spotting wildlife or distant views.
- Extra socks: In case your feet get wet.
Packing smart can make your glacier tour much more enjoyable. Remember, you don’t need to bring everything, just the essentials to stay safe and comfortable.
With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your glacier adventure. Enjoy the breathtaking views and stay safe out there!
Seasonal Considerations for Glacier Tours
When planning a glacier tour in Alaska, it’s crucial to consider the season. Each season brings its own set of challenges and requires specific gear to ensure you stay comfortable and safe. Here’s a breakdown of what to wear during different times of the year.
Dressing for Summer Glacier Tours
Summer in Alaska can be quite variable. Most often it is sunny at the glacier, but occasional windy rain storms can arise. Be sure to pack the following:
- Lightweight, breathable layers
- Waterproof outer shell
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Light gloves
What to Wear in Winter Conditions
Winter is cold on the glacier. Typically, temperatures drop below freezing and remain there all winter. Snow persists generally after October and does not start melting with rigor until early April. If you are not dressed properly, you will become too cold and will have to be evacuated from the glacier, which will disrupt the tour for everyone else. For this reason, I reserve the right to deny people access to a tour if they do not arrive dressed correctly. Contact me if you have questions.
Be sure to wear the following:
- Insulated winter boots
- Thermal base layers
- Fleece mid-layers
- Heavy-duty outer shell
- Warm hat and gloves
Spring and Fall Attire Tips
Spring is short-lived in Alaska. On the glacier, we will see spring weather varying from "winter" to "summer" from one day to the next. Conditions on the glacier can vary from dry (frozen) one day to wet (slushy melt-water) the next day, and then back to dry (frozen) the following day. Fall can be similar, with temperatures dropping and the first snows appearing.
- Layered clothing to adjust to changing conditions
- Waterproof boots
- Warm hat and gloves
- Lightweight, packable jacket
Remember, the weather on the glacier is often not too dissimilar to the surrounding terrain. As you’d expect, it will be a bit colder on a gigantic lump of ice.
Special Gear for Kids on Glacier Tours
Taking kids on a glacier tour can be an amazing adventure, but it requires some special gear to keep them safe and comfortable. Here’s what you need to know:
Child Carriers for Safety
For the safety of your little ones, children cannot be carried in your arms. Infants should be in front (chest) carriers, while toddlers who can’t walk far need to be in toddler carrier backpacks, like a Kelty Kids Carrier. This ensures they are secure and you have your hands free for balance and support.
Adjusting Gear for Children
When you arrive at the glacier, guides will provide ice cleats and helmets, even for kids. They will help in adjusting gear to make sure it’s comfortable and safe for the entire tour. It’s important that the gear fits well to avoid any discomfort during the adventure.
Keeping Kids Warm and Comfortable
Layering is key to keeping kids warm. Start with a good base layer to manage moisture, add an insulating layer for warmth, and finish with an outer layer for protection against wind and rain. Don’t forget a warm hat and gloves. Hand and foot warmers can also be a great addition, especially if the weather turns chilly.
A well-prepared child is a happy child on a glacier tour. Make sure to pack all the necessary gear to keep them safe and comfortable throughout the adventure.
Conclusion
Exploring a glacier in Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that requires the right preparation. By dressing in layers, wearing sturdy footwear, and bringing essential items like sunglasses and sunscreen, you’ll be ready for whatever the glacier throws your way. Remember, safety is key, so take advantage of the provided gear like ice cleats and helmets. Whether it’s summer or winter, being well-prepared will ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable adventure on the glacier. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Alaska’s glaciers!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear on a glacier tour in Alaska?
Dress in layers to stay warm and dry. Start with a base layer to keep moisture away, add an insulating layer for warmth, and finish with a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots.
Are ice cleats and helmets provided on the tour?
Yes, ice cleats and helmets are provided for safety. Guides will help you adjust them for a comfortable fit.
What type of footwear is recommended for glacier tours?
Sturdy hiking boots are a must. They provide support and stability. In wet conditions, waterproof boots are recommended. Ice cleats will be provided to attach to your boots.
Do I need to bring my own water on the tour?
You should bring a personal water bottle. The tour provides pure Alaska water to refill your bottle, as we aim to eliminate single-use plastics.
What accessories are essential for a glacier tour?
Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare off the ice, sunscreen to protect your skin, and hand and foot warmers for extra warmth.
Is special gear available for children on the tour?
Yes, child carriers are recommended for safety. Guides also provide ice cleats and helmets in various sizes to accommodate children.
