12 Best Glacier Hiking Trails in The World

Glacier hiking is an adventure where you walk on ancient ice, explore stunning landscapes, and witness the effects of climate change firsthand.

But it requires proper preparation, the right gear, and sometimes expert guidance.

Here’s a quick look at the 12 best glacier hiking spots worldwide, catering to beginners, intermediates, and advanced hikers:

Beginner-Friendly Trails:

• Jökulsárlón (Iceland): Easy access, guided tours, and floating icebergs.
• Athabasca Glacier (Canada): Convenient location near Icefields Parkway with guided options.
• Perito Moreno Glacier (Argentina): Safe guided hikes with dramatic ice calving.

Intermediate Trails:

• Great Glacier Trail (Canada): Challenging climb with breathtaking glacier views.
• Aletsch Glacier (Switzerland): Europe’s largest glacier with panoramic Alpine trails.
• Nigardsbreen Glacier (Norway): Guided tours on striking blue ice formations.

Advanced Trails:

• Fox Glacier (New Zealand): Steep climbs through ice formations and rainforests.
• Franz Josef Glacier (New Zealand): Dynamic terrain with steep icefalls.
• Tasman Glacier (New Zealand): New Zealand’s longest glacier, requiring technical skills.

Unique Experiences:

• Vatnajökull (Iceland): Explore volcanic ice caves in Europe’s largest glacier.
• Harding Icefield (Alaska): Strenuous hike to a massive ice sheet.
• Glacier Bay (Alaska): Where glaciers meet the ocean, accessible by boat or kayak.

Key Tips:

• Always carry essential gear: crampons, ice axes, waterproof layers, and navigation tools.
• Go with a guide, especially for intermediate and advanced trails.
• Check weather conditions and start early for stable ice.

Quick Comparison Table:

Glacier hiking offers unforgettable experiences, but safety is critical.

Always prepare thoroughly, follow guides, and respect the environment.

Ready to explore? Choose a trail that matches your skill level and start planning!

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Gear and Safety Tips for Glacier Hiking

Want to hike on glaciers? You’ll need serious prep work and specific gear.

Why Go With a Guide?

If you’re new to glacier hiking, don’t go solo.

Expert guides come equipped with gear and know-how at places like Iceland’s Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. They’ll teach you the basics and help you avoid dangerous spots like hidden crevasses.

Must-Have Gear for the Ice

Here’s what you need to pack for a safe glacier adventure:

But having the right gear is just the start – you need to know how to use it and read the environment.

Watch the Weather

Mountain weather can flip in minutes. Always check the forecast before heading out. If conditions look sketchy, don’t hesitate to turn back. Pro tip: Start your hike early – the ice is more stable in the morning.

Bring a Buddy

“Never hike alone, a buddy can help you stay aware of your conditions, make noise to alert wildlife and help you if you become injured.” – Glacier National Park Lodges

Know the Risks

The biggest threats?

Crevasses hiding under snow and avalanches on steep slopes above 2,000 meters. Don’t mess around with these hazards.

Mind the Wildlife

Spot an animal? Keep your distance. You’re walking through their home, not the other way around.

Get your gear ready, team up with experienced hikers, and stay alert – that’s your ticket to exploring these incredible ice formations safely.

Note: Download our FREE guide at the bottom of this post.

1. Great Glacier Trail in Glacier National Park, Canada

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The Great Glacier Trail takes you deep into Canada's ice-covered wonderland.

This 11.4-kilometer round-trip hike in Glacier National Park puts you face-to-face with some of North America's most stunning ice formations - and there are over 400 of them to discover.

Be ready to work those legs!

With an 870-meter climb and a 5-7 hour journey ahead, this isn't your average nature walk. The trail throws some serious uphill sections at you, especially as you near the glacier viewpoint.

And here's the kicker: you might find snow and ice on the trail even in the middle of summer.

Don't even think about hitting this trail without the right gear.

You'll need crampons and an ice axe, plus:

• Tough waterproof hiking boots
• Layers you can peel off or put on as the weather shifts
• GPS device AND old-school paper map
• Bear spray (yes, the bears are real!)

What makes it worth the sweat?

You'll get up close with ancient ice giants sculpting these mountains since the last ice age. But here's the sobering part: where there were once 150+ glaciers in the late 1800s, fewer than 30 remain today.

It's like watching Earth's history disappear before your eyes.

"The Great Glacier Trail showcases some of our most dramatic evidence of climate change in action. These glaciers are living history books, telling the story of our changing planet." - National Park Service, Glacier National Park Lodges

Want to nail this hike?

Hit the trail early when the ice is most solid. Always check in at the visitor center first - the rangers know what's up with trail conditions and where the wildlife's hanging out.

During peak season (July-September), showing up before 8 AM gets you a parking spot and helps you dodge those afternoon storms.

Not feeling quite ready for the full trek? The visitor center offers guided tours and easier viewing spots.

For your next icy adventure, check out Europe's biggest glacier at Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park.

2. Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland

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Picture this: a massive ice sheet covering 8% of Iceland. That's Vatnajökull - Europe's biggest glacier, stretching across 8,100 square kilometers.

Want to explore it? Head to Skaftafell or Sólheimajökull, both right off Iceland's Ring Road.

What makes this place special is that it's where fire meets ice. Below the glacier, volcanic activity creates otherworldly ice caves and steam vents—features you won't find in many other places.

Ready to hit the ice? Here's what you need to know:

• Tour guides supply the hardcore gear (crampons, ice axes)
• Pack waterproof clothes and lots of layers - temps can swing wildly

Pro tip: Book your guides early, especially if you're coming in summer. Morning tours give you the best light and conditions.

"The park is a protected area where ice and fire coexist. With over 30 outlet glaciers flowing from Vatnajökull, each trail offers a different perspective on this massive ice cap." - Guide to Iceland

While you can visit year-round, you'll ALWAYS need a guide - this isn't your average hiking trail. The mix of glacial rivers and volcanic peaks creates stunning views, but you'll want an expert to show you around safely.

Next up: we're heading to Alaska's Glacier Bay, where these icy giants meet the ocean in an impressive show of nature's power.

3. Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska

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Glacier Bay National Park stretches across 3.3 million acres of raw Alaskan wilderness.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's one of the few places where massive glaciers drop straight into the ocean - a sight you won't find in many other places in North America.

Want to explore? Here's what the park offers:

Before you head out, gear up properly.

You'll need:

• Waterproof boots that can handle rough terrain
• Multiple layers of clothing (it gets COLD out there!)
• Special equipment like crampons if you're hitting the glaciers

Stay Safe Out There: Don't skip the ranger station - they'll fill you in on current conditions. Pack emergency gear and communication tools, and never try glacier walks without an expert guide. Stick to marked paths to protect the local environment.

The park tells a bigger story too. Its shrinking glaciers show climate change in action. But it's not just about ice - the park is teeming with life. Humpback whales swim in its waters while mountain goats scramble across its peaks.

"Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is a place of stunning natural beauty and incredible biodiversity." - National Park Service

Planning to visit?

Book your guided glacier hike at least two months ahead if you're coming during peak season. Morning tours give you the clearest views and safest ice conditions. Stop by the visitor center first - their maps and up-to-date glacier reports are must-haves for planning your route.

Up next: Get ready for Argentina's show-stopping Perito Moreno Glacier.

4. Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina

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Picture this: a massive wall of ice stretching 30 kilometers long and up to 5 kilometers wide, covering 250 square kilometers of Los Glaciares National Park.

That's Perito Moreno for you - and here's what makes it special: while most glaciers are shrinking, this ice giant keeps growing.

Getting there is straightforward - hop on a bus from El Calafate to the national park.

But don't even think about exploring solo - it's not allowed. Why? Because this isn't your average walking trail.

You'll need licensed guides who know their stuff and can provide the right safety gear.

Before you go, pack these must-haves:

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Multiple warm layers
• Rain-resistant outer shell
• Sunglasses and sunscreen

The real magic happens on the ice.

You'll walk across this frozen landscape with crampons strapped to your boots and safety harnesses in place. If you're lucky, you might witness something spectacular: huge chunks of ice breaking off and plunging into Lake Argentino below.

"The Perito Moreno Glacier represents one of the most important tourist attractions in Argentine Patagonia, showcasing the raw power and beauty of these ancient ice formations while emphasizing the critical importance of glacier conservation." - Los Glaciares National Park Management

Want to make the most of your visit? Book your guided tours well ahead, especially from October to March. Morning tours give you the best light for photos and safer walking conditions. And don't skip the viewing platforms - they offer some of the best views of the glacier's face.

Remember: this isn't just any tourist spot - it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stick to the marked paths and listen to your guides. Scientists study this growing glacier to better understand climate patterns, so let's help keep it pristine for future research and visitors.

Next up: we're heading north to explore the otherworldly Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Iceland.

5. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Iceland

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Picture this: Europe's biggest glacier meets a lagoon filled with floating icebergs. That's Jökulsárlón for you, tucked away in Vatnajökull National Park.

Just a 2-hour drive from Reykjavík along the Ring Road, your adventure starts at the Sólheimajökull parking lot.

The "Blue Ice Experience" is perfect for first-time glacier hikers. Your guide will hook you up with crampons and safety gear before you head out to explore the ice.

As you walk, you'll get up-close views of the lagoon that'll make your jaw drop.

Here's what you NEED to pack:

• Waterproof hiking boots (you can't attach crampons without them)
• Windbreaker and waterproof jacket
• Several warm layers
• Tough gloves and a warm hat

Don't even think about going solo here - the ice changes daily, and you'll need a pro guide to show you the way. They know exactly which routes are safe and how to navigate the tricky spots.

"Glacier hiking in Iceland has transformed from a niche activity to a must-do experience, with guided tours offering safe access to these remarkable ice formations while preserving their natural beauty." - Guide to Iceland

Here's an insider tip: Lock in your tour early, especially if you're visiting during busy seasons. Want the best experience? Book a morning tour - the light's better and the ice is more stable.

What makes Jökulsárlón special?

It's the only place where you can hike on ancient ice while watching icebergs float by in a lagoon. You'll see firsthand how the glacier feeds the lagoon and shapes Iceland's landscape. Just remember to stick to marked paths and follow your guide's instructions - this helps protect this cool spot for future visitors.

Next up: we're heading to New Zealand's Fox Glacier, where things get even more interesting.

6. Fox Glacier in New Zealand

Want to walk on a massive river of ice that flows right into a rainforest?

That's exactly what you'll find at Fox Glacier in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park. This 13-kilometer ice giant tumbles down from the Southern Alps, creating one of the world's most striking landscapes.

Here's what makes Fox Glacier different: it's STEEP.

You'll climb through a maze of ice formations, deep crevasses, and towering walls of blue ice. But that's not all - you're doing this while surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Scientists keep a close eye on this glacier too, as its movements tell us important stories about our changing climate.

Before you head out, your guides will hook you up with all the gear you need:

• Crampons to grip the ice
• Ice axes for stability
• Waterproof boots
• Warm layers
• Rain gear

"The Fox Glacier's challenging terrain requires experienced guidance and proper equipment. Its unique position, descending from alpine heights into rainforest, creates one of the most diverse glacier hiking experiences in the Southern Hemisphere." - Guide to Iceland

Here's an insider tip: Book your hike for early morning when the ice is most solid. The guides switch up their routes every day based on conditions, so stick close and follow their lead - the ice can be tricky!

Think the challenge might be too much?

The jaw-dropping views of the Southern Alps make every step worth it. Plus, you'll pick up cool facts about how the glacier formed and how it moves.

Want to double your glacier adventure?

Check out Franz Josef Glacier nearby - it's Fox's equally impressive neighbor in the Southern Alps.

7. Franz Josef Glacier in New Zealand

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Picture this: a massive ice giant crawling down from the Southern Alps, stopping just 300 meters from sea level.

That's Franz Josef Glacier - a 12-kilometer stretch of ice that's just a stone's throw from its neighbor, Fox Glacier. What makes it special? It's one of the few places on Earth where you can walk from a rainforest straight onto a glacier.

Want the best glacier experience?

Hit the trails in the morning. The weather here plays by its own rules, and early tours usually get the best conditions. Local guides check the ice daily - this glacier likes to keep things interesting by changing its surface regularly.

Here's the deal: while Franz Josef is easy to reach, it's not a DIY adventure. You'll need to join a guided tour (non-negotiable for safety). The good news? Tour operators hook you up with everything you need:

• Crampons
• Ice axes
• Waterproof boots
• Thermal clothing
• Safety equipment

"The Franz Josef Glacier's position within Westland National Park presents a rare opportunity to witness the interaction between ice and rainforest ecosystems."

Here's a pro move: Planning to visit during summer (December-February)? Book your guided hike at least two days ahead - spots fill up fast.

New to glacier hiking?

Start with the lower section. For those who've done this before, the upper ice falls pack more punch. Just remember: this isn't your average hiking trail. The routes change as the glacier moves and the weather shifts, so always follow your guide's lead.

Next up: we're heading to Switzerland to check out Europe's biggest ice flow - the Aletsch Glacier.

8. Aletsch Glacier in Switzerland

Picture Europe's biggest glacier—a massive 23-kilometer ice river that has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Aletsch Glacier stretches across 117 square kilometers of Alpine landscape, where scientists have been studying climate patterns since the early 1900s.

Want to visit?

Three villages - Bettmeralp, Riederalp, and Fiescheralp - serve as your jumping-off points, each with easy cable car access. For the best views, hit the Aletsch Panorama Trail. This 12-kilometer path winds through alpine meadows, keeping you eye-to-eye with this mammoth ice flow the whole way.

Before you head out, make sure you're prepared for high-altitude hiking:

• Solid hiking boots that protect your ankles
• Layered clothing (the weather can change fast up there)
• Map and compass (don't count on your phone alone)
• Basic first aid supplies

Here's the deal: This glacier is protected, so stick to the marked trails. It's not just about preserving the area - those hidden crevasses mean business.

Not sure where to start?

Local guides run daily tours from all three villages, sharing cool facts about how the glacier formed and its role in the Alpine environment.

"The Aletsch Glacier's distinctive formation makes it one of the most distinctive glacial formations in the Alps", notes the Swiss Hiking Federation.

Pro tip: Get an early start. The morning light puts on quite a show, bouncing off the ice in ways that'll make both photographers and hikers stop in their tracks.

From this Swiss giant, we're heading back to Alaska to check out the sprawling Harding Icefield Trail.

9. Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska

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Want to walk back in time to the last ice age?

The Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park lets you do just that. This 8.2-mile round trip hike shows off one of North America's most jaw-dropping sights: a massive 300-square-mile sheet of ice that seems to go on forever.

Before You Go: Stop by the visitor center - it's not just a suggestion, it's a must.

The trail can surprise you with snow even in July, and the weather up high can flip like a coin. Pack like you mean it: waterproof gear, solid boots, and don't forget your bear spray. This is Alaska, after all, where black bears and mountain goats roam free.

If you're new to glacier hiking, booking a guide can help you navigate this challenging terrain safely.

The trail tells a story as you climb. You'll start in a thick forest, then watch the landscape open up into alpine tundra, until finally - BAM! - you're standing at the edge of an ice sheet that stretches as far as your eyes can see.

"The Harding Icefield represents one of Alaska's most remarkable glacial formations, serving as a window into the last ice age", notes the National Park Service.

Ready for more ice adventures? Let's head across the ocean to Norway's Nigardsbreen Glacier, where another cool experience awaits.

10. Nigardsbreen Glacier in Norway

Stretching 9 kilometers through Jostedalsbreen National Park, Nigardsbreen Glacier stands out as one of Norway's most striking natural wonders.

Part of Europe's biggest glacier, it shows off mesmerizing blue ice shapes formed by hundreds of years of packed snow.

This isn't your typical hiking trail.

The glacier's surface demands serious respect and proper prep work. You'll need technical gear and a pro guide to tackle this icy giant safely - there's no room for solo adventures here.

"The dynamic nature of Nigardsbreen's ice formations makes guided tours essential for visitor safety", explains Nigard Glacier Guides, who have been leading expeditions here since 2023. "Even experienced hikers should never attempt to explore the glacier independently."

Want to experience this frozen wonder? Plan your visit between June and September, when expert guides are ready to kit you out with all the gear you'll need to navigate the steep slopes and deep crevasses.

Here's what you'll need:

• From the guides: crampons, ice axe, harness
• Your gear: waterproof hiking boots, layers of warm clothes
• Don't forget: sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle

Make the visitor center your first stop - it's where you'll get the latest conditions report and meet your guide.

Remember: this isn't static terrain. The ice shifts and changes, which is why local know-how is a must. But push through the challenge, and you'll get some jaw-dropping views of Norwegian fjords and the vast Jostedalsbreen National Park stretching out before you.

Next up on our glacier journey: Canada's Athabasca Glacier in the Columbia Icefield.

11. Athabasca Glacier in Columbia Icefield, Canada

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The Athabasca Glacier stretches 6 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide, featuring striking blue ice formations and flowing meltwater streams.

As part of North America's biggest icefield, it's one of the easiest glaciers to visit in the Canadian Rockies - but don't let that fool you. You'll still need proper gear and an expert guide to explore it safely.

What makes this glacier special?

It sits right next to the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), making it much easier to reach than most other glaciers. It's part of the Columbia Icefield - a massive 230-square-kilometer stretch of pure wilderness. Picture yourself surrounded by sky-high peaks that make photographers grab their cameras on sight.

"Never head out onto a glacier alone. Even if you think you are following a path left by someone else, you do not know if snow conditions have changed and the route the other party successfully navigated can still safely be done." - Exped Review

Before hitting the ice, you'll start at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre for a safety briefing. Your guides will hook you up with all the essential gear - crampons, ice axes, and safety equipment. Just make sure to bring your own waterproof boots and layers of warm clothing.

Want the best shot at perfect conditions?

Plan your visit during summer (June to September). The path might be challenging, but it leads you through an almost alien landscape that'll leave you speechless.

Next up: we're heading to New Zealand's Tasman Glacier for another ice-filled adventure.

12. Tasman Glacier in New Zealand

The Tasman Glacier stands as New Zealand's longest glacier, stretching 27 kilometers through Mount Cook National Park. This massive ice formation offers hikers an up-close look at Mount Cook, stunning glacial lakes, and sweeping views of the Southern Alps - but it's not a walk in the park.

This isn't your typical hiking trail.

The Tasman's steep, icy surface demands solid physical fitness and technical know-how. You'll need experience with crampons and ice axes - this isn't something you can just show up and do.

At Mount Cook National Park, guides provide safety briefings and gear before anyone steps foot on the ice.

"Glacier hiking requires proper training and equipment. Even experienced hikers should never attempt to navigate the Tasman Glacier's challenging terrain without a professional guide due to the risks associated with crevasses and changing weather conditions." - National Park Service Guide

Want the best shot at good hiking conditions?

Plan your trip during New Zealand's summer (December to March). The weather's more stable then, though it can still change quickly. Just ask any local guide - they'll tell you how fast clouds can roll in.

Here's what you'll need to pack:

• Crampons and ice axes (your tour operator's got these covered)
• Harness and safety equipment
• Waterproof, insulated hiking boots
• Multiple layers of warm, moisture-wicking clothing
• Emergency supplies and first aid kit

The Tasman Glacier isn't just a hiking spot - it's the heart of Mount Cook National Park's ecosystem. Local guides take their role seriously, teaching visitors about protecting this natural wonder while showing them its raw beauty.

The sheer size and technical challenges of the Tasman set it apart from other trails. It's not for everyone, but for those ready to take it on, it offers an experience that's hard to match.

Trail Comparison Table

Looking to pick the perfect glacier hike? Here's a breakdown of trails that'll match your experience level and what you're hoping to see.

Want more details?

Check out this in-depth look at each trail:

"Safety should always be the primary consideration when choosing a glacier trail. Even seemingly easy routes can become hazardous due to changing weather conditions and glacial movements", advises the National Park Service.

Here's something that might surprise you: The Harding Icefield Trail has 37 known avalanche paths that can affect your safety depending on when you go. Each trail brings something different to the table - from Vatnajökull's volcanic scenery to Perito Moreno's dramatic ice calving.

Pick your trail based on three things: how fit you are, your technical know-how, and how ready you are to handle cold weather.

Don't let the "easy" rating fool you - weather changes and unstable ice can turn any trail tricky.

That's why having the right gear and guides isn't just helpful - it's a must.

Armed with this info, you're ready to pick a trail that fits your skills and gives you the glacier experience you're after.

Conclusion

Hiking on glaciers lets you experience some of Earth's most stunning landscapes - but you need to come prepared and show these mighty ice formations the respect they deserve.

While the experience can be incredible, glacier hiking comes with real risks that you shouldn't take lightly.

We've looked at the world's best glacier trails.

Now let's talk about staying safe while having an amazing time. Whether you're starting out at Jökulsárlón or taking on Franz Josef Glacier, your success comes down to three things: getting ready properly, bringing the right gear, and making smart choices.

"The combination of proper equipment, experienced guidance, and weather awareness can mean the difference between a memorable experience and a dangerous misstep", emphasizes the National Park Service's glacier safety protocol.

Want to get the most out of your glacier adventure?

Team up with a pro guide. They'll keep you safe AND teach you cool stuff about these ancient ice formations. Take the Aletsch Glacier trek - guides show you hidden ice caves and tell stories about centuries of Alpine history.

What could be just another hike becomes something special.

Even glaciers that look solid can hide dangerous crevasses, and the weather can turn nasty fast. That's why having a guide is extra important on medium and hard trails.