Girdwood: Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour offers a unique blend of kayaking adventure and scenic rail travel in Alaska’s stunning wilderness. For $406 per person, you’ll spend roughly 9 to 12 hours exploring the icy beauty of Spencer Glacier, paddling among floating icebergs, and witnessing some of the most breathtaking scenery the state has to offer. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is tailored to give both beginners and experienced paddlers an unforgettable day in the wild.
What we love about this experience is how it balances serenity and adventure — the early morning paddle offers calm waters and spectacular blue ice, making for a truly peaceful start. Plus, the inclusion of two picturesque train rides—the Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery—adds a scenic touch that elevates the whole day beyond just kayaking. A potential consideration is the cost, which might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the train tickets, packed lunch, gear, and the sheer uniqueness of the experience, it represents good value for those seeking top-tier Alaskan scenery.
This tour is perfect for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and a good story to tell. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, the tour’s flexible approach makes it accessible. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, immersive day that combines active exploration with relaxation and stunning vistas. Children over 8 are welcome, and the small group size helps ensure personalized attention.
Key Points
- Unforgettable scenery with floating icebergs and close-up views of Spencer Glacier’s blue face.
- Balanced experience adaptable to different skill levels, with all necessary gear provided.
- Scenic train rides through Alaska’s most beautiful railway sections add a nostalgic touch.
- Serene morning paddle offers calm waters, perfect for capturing photos and enjoying peaceful moments.
- All-inclusive package with lunch, gear, and train tickets delivers excellent value for the price.
- Limited group size enhances personal interaction with guides and a more intimate experience.
An In-Depth Look at the Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour
When planning an Alaskan adventure, choosing the right mix of activities can be tricky. The Girdwood Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour manages to combine the thrill of kayaking among icebergs with the comfort of scenic train rides, making it an ideal choice for those who want a full day of natural splendor without feeling overwhelmed.
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Starting Point and Duration
The tour begins at a meeting point that varies depending on your booking, but you’ll want to arrive prepared for a long day—anywhere from 9 to 12 hours. This isn’t a quick jaunt; it’s a carefully curated experience designed to maximize your time on the water and on the rails. The day typically kicks off early in the morning, aligning with the guide’s advice that mornings are the most serene and magnificent time to paddle.
What Makes This Tour Special
The main highlight is paddling around icebergs on Spencer Lake, a peaceful, nearly glassy body of water that offers an unforgettable view of floating ice in various shades of blue. As one guide put it, mornings spent kayaking here are “like no other time of day; the water is glass, the air is calm, and the ice is a brilliant blue in the early light.” The chance to get up close to the Spencer Glacier’s terminus face—a towering wall of blue ice—provides a sense of scale and awe that’s hard to match.
Another feature that adds to the appeal is the railroad experience. Traveling on the Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery trains, you’ll pass through the Grandview & Tunnels sections, renowned for their scenery. These rides aren’t just transportation—they’re part of the journey, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and glaciers that make Alaska so memorable.
The Paddle Itself
The kayak segment covers approximately 4 miles in total, split between paddling out onto Spencer Lake and returning. The paddle across Spencer Lake is about 2 miles each way, and though conditions tend to be calm, you should be prepared for variable weather—warm clothing, gloves, and a hat are recommended. The guide notes that there’s no tidal influence, which means the water remains steady, a big plus for beginners and those wary of choppy waters.
The gear—including splash tops, spray skirts, and PFDs—is provided, so you don’t need to worry about packing your own. The tour is designed to be accessible to a broad skill range, but you’ll need to inform the guides of your experience level so they can make suitable arrangements.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Travelers Say
The one review we have is glowing: “Awesome,” writes Cornelia from the Netherlands. She emphasizes the “magnificent scenery,” which underscores just how stunning the views are. The small group setting also allows guides to connect more personally with guests, enhancing the overall experience.
Considerations and Practicalities
While the day is well-planned, a few practical points are worth noting. The cost of $406 per person covers the train tickets, lunch, gear, and guided paddling, making it a solid value when you consider all included. However, it’s an investment, so if budget is a concern, you might compare this to other less inclusive options.
The minimum age is 8 years old, and all children must paddle tandem with a parent or an experienced paddler. If traveling with younger kids, alternative arrangements might be needed, such as a raft instead of kayaks.
It’s also worth noting that the max weight is approximately 240 pounds and the height limit is around 63 inches, ensuring the kayaks are suitable for most participants.
Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers
This experience suits adventurers who crave a mix of activity and scenic beauty. The early morning start and peaceful waters appeal to those looking to escape crowds and find tranquility in nature. The combination of paddling, glacier viewing, and train rides creates a well-rounded day that feels both adventurous and leisurely.
It’s also an excellent choice for photographers—the early light, floating ice, and mountain vistas offer countless opportunities for stunning photos. Smaller groups mean more personal attention from guides, making it easier to ask questions and learn about the landscape.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?
If you’re after a peaceful, scenic kayak experience amid floating ice and towering glaciers, this tour delivers. The combination of close-up glacier views and spectacular rail journeys makes it more than just a kayak trip; it’s a comprehensive introduction to Alaska’s wilderness. The all-inclusive nature and small groups ensure a smooth, immersive adventure that’s perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a memorable Alaskan day.
While the price might seem high, the inclusion of train rides, gear, and lunch makes it a good value for those eager to experience the state’s iconic scenery without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. If you’re comfortable with roughly 4 miles of paddling and can handle being outdoors for a full day, this tour offers a beautiful, authentic slice of Alaska’s icy landscape.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
Your tour includes train tickets on the Alaska Railroad, a catered sack lunch, all necessary adventure gear like splash tops, spray skirts, and life vests, plus guided kayaking.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs between 9 and 12 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and weather conditions.
Is the kayaking difficult?
The tour is suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Gear is provided, and guides tailor the experience based on your experience level.
What should I bring?
Bring a camera, gloves, warm clothing, and a hat. Weather can be unpredictable, so layered clothing is recommended.
What is the maximum weight and height for participants?
Maximum weight is around 240 lbs, and the maximum height is approximately 63 inches.
Can children participate?
Children over 8 years old can join and must paddle tandem with an adult or experienced paddler. For younger children, alternative arrangements like a raft might be available.
What is the best time of day for this tour?
Mornings are considered the most serene and beautiful for paddling, with calmer waters and the soft early light highlighting the ice.
What are the main highlights of the tour?
Kayaking among floating icebergs, close views of Spencer Glacier’s blue face, and scenic train rides through Alaska’s stunning landscapes.
Is the tour worth the price?
Given the all-inclusive nature—train rides, gear, lunch—and the unique scenery, many find the cost justified for a memorable Alaskan experience.
Embark on this journey if you seek a peaceful yet adventurous day, filled with incredible sights, gentle paddling, and scenic train rides through one of the most majestic parts of Alaska.
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