The Call of the Glacier

When the opportunity to conquer the icy depths of the Knik Glacier presented itself, I knew it was a challenge I couldn’t resist. As a former professional athlete, the thrill of pushing my limits is a siren call I can’t ignore. My fiancée and I, both adrenaline junkies, were eager to embark on this private heli glacier crevasse ice climbing adventure. The day before our expedition, Kate from Alaska Sundog Guiding reached out to ensure we were prepared, easing any lingering nerves about spending four hours on a glacier. Her attention to detail and reassurance set the tone for what would be an unforgettable day.

The morning of our adventure, we arrived at the Alaska Glacier Lodge, where we were greeted by our guides, Kate, Tom, and Cory. Their warm welcome and professionalism immediately put us at ease. They outfitted us with boots and harnesses, ensuring everything fit perfectly. Kate’s promise of extra gloves and snacks was a comforting touch, a testament to their commitment to our comfort and safety. As we boarded the helicopter, piloted by Wyatt, the anticipation was palpable. The flight over the Chugach Mountains was nothing short of breathtaking, with Wyatt expertly maneuvering to offer us the best views of the valley and its wildlife.

Into the Ice

Landing on the Knik Glacier was like stepping onto another planet. The vast expanse of ice stretched out before us, a stunning landscape that defied description. We were fitted with crampons, and Tom guided us through the basics of walking on ice, teaching us how to kick our toes into the surface for stability. His calm demeanor and thorough explanations made us feel secure as we navigated this frozen world.

The real adventure began as we prepared to descend into a moulin, a deep, vertical shaft in the glacier. The guides’ meticulous attention to safety was evident as Tom explained the engineering behind the anchoring techniques that would support us during our climb. With our harnesses secured, we took turns being lowered into the moulin, the icy walls towering above us. The sensation of being suspended in this vertical cave was exhilarating, a unique blend of awe and adrenaline.

Climbing out of the moulin was a test of strength and technique, but with Tom’s expert coaching and the encouragement of our guides, we both succeeded. The feeling of triumph as I emerged from the depths was indescribable, a moment of pure exhilaration that left me grinning from ear to ear. The second descent took us even deeper, allowing us to explore the slick, solid walls of the moulin. It was an experience unlike any other, a testament to the power and beauty of nature.

A Glacial Feast

After our climbs, with our muscles pleasantly fatigued, we gathered for a well-deserved lunch provided by Alaska Sundog Guiding. The meal was a delightful interlude, a chance to refuel and reflect on the morning’s adventures. As we ate, our guides shared stories and insights about the glacier, their passion for this incredible environment evident in every word.

With renewed energy, we set off to explore more of the glacier, discovering a stunning “river” of pure, aqua blue water. The sight was mesmerizing, a reminder of the glacier’s ever-changing beauty. We filled our water bottles with the pristine meltwater, savoring its crisp, refreshing taste. As we captured the moment with photos, the helicopter arrived to whisk us back to the lodge.

The flight back, piloted by Michael, was a serene conclusion to our adventure, the landscape below a tapestry of ice and rock. As we touched down, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s experiences. The camaraderie with our guides, the thrill of the climb, and the breathtaking beauty of the glacier had combined to create a truly unforgettable adventure. For anyone seeking a heart-pounding, awe-inspiring experience, I can’t recommend this glacier adventure enough. It’s a journey that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.