Alaska Kenai Harding Icefield Trail
 

Has anyone hiked this trail? I found the following at the NPS website:

http://www.nps.gov/kefj/trip_plannin...%20Glacier.htm

We are regular people and not in great shape. So we are wondering if we can handle it.
Also, do we need any special boots/gears in late July?

Any information is appreciated!

Is this the long trail near Exit Glacier in Seward? If so, you'd only need hiking boots in July, and raingear just in case. Several black bears in this area.

Yeah, it is near Exit Glacier in Seward.

How long would the round trip take (regular people, not pro hikers)?

Thanks!

The sign at the base of the trail said it was VERY strenuous and would take several hours. We are in good shape and turned away. The sign also said to be prepared for harsh weather conditions.

No, don't turn this experience away. I did it two years ago and even though it wore me out , I still think of it of a very memorable experience. It took us eight hours(we took our time and rested along the way) and we are not hikers. I would say we are in average shape and very regular. The slopes are not real steep and there is mud along the way. I just wore old hiking boots and pants that were water repellent. The views are spectacular and with all the ice we had a feeling that we were in Antarctica instead of Alaska. I also, had a feeling of accomplishment (I felt like I climbed Mount Everest or something Ha) at the end of the day.I do hope you bring more water than we did . We thought we had enough but, ran out and had to ration our water.We took lunch with us and it was so marvelous to eat at the top. We also, took the best pictures and video. We did see one black bear but, he was in the distance (do take binoculars) and was no threat. I have to admit that I couldn't carry my backpack anymore and had to give it to my husband(that's what kind of shape I'm in). The poor guy had to carry two backpacks. I did carry it most of the way and did carry it going down. It's an experience I will never forget and you will miss out if you don't do it. I can't believe a person in good shape would turn it down because believe me if I can do it anyone can.

Has anyone finished it? Is there a ranger guided tour for this trail?

Thanks!

If we ever get back there, my husband and I decided we wanted to tackle it. We didn't have 8 hours to spend and the sign made it sound very difficult.

From Exit glaicer there are 2 shorter trails. One takes you to the base of the glacier, about a level mile. The upper trail is about 1 1/2 mile with uphill areas but offers close excellent side viewing. Either can be done in less than 2 hours. There are several ranger led activities but usually on the level part.

Thanks everyone for the great information. I like to plan trips in details. So here is some more questions:

1. How much water do we need if we take the 7-mile trail? It is not good to be short of water. But water is heavy, esp. on a strenuous trail.

2. What kind of clothes do we need to bring with us? Do we need to carry winter jacket? I am trying to minize the weight to carry

3. Does the "upper trail" offer view nearly as good as the Harding Icefield Trail?

4. Do I need those hiking pants to keep the bottom part of pants from getting wet?

5. Do I need hiking boots? Water proof? High cut?

Thanks a lot!

I live in Seward and have hiked this trail several times. It is one of my favorites for WOW factor. It is definately steep, and you would probably need 5 - 8 hours to do this. By late July the raspberries may be ready for eating, so that gives you plenty of excuses for breaks on the lower trail. When you finally crest the high point of the trail, the Harding Icefield stretches out in front of you, and you think you are on the top of the world.

Since you work so hard on the way up, you won't be bundling up very much. At the top it is usually windy and cool, so you want a top layer that is wind/water resistant. If you throw in a layer of fleece, you will be okay for all temps.

Definately take 1-2 liters of water per person, and pleanty of food and snacks. One time I helped out an older couple that was determined to make the top even though they had run out of food. I gave them all my food and they made it.

There are several other incredible hikes around here that are a bit easier.

In late July, what is the temperature at top? Will a pair of jeans cut it or do we need to have 2 or more layers? We definitely will bring a light jacket and rain gear.

Thanks!

I have never taken a winter coat to Alaska except on my March trip. :) I also don't like or take jeans- too bulky, get and tend to stay damp and take forever to dry. Lined and unlined wind pants are perfect for me, also easy to layer.

BudgetQueen, where do you live? I have friends from Canada and they can wear shorts in winter here when I need 2 pairs of pants. :)

New York, and no I don't wear shorts in winter. :)