Kenai Fjords: Aialik Glacier's terminus closed to visitors over falling ice
At Aialik Glacier, the ice-fall zone is now closed to visitors, and here's what that means for your trip to Kenai Fjords.
By Erika Müller,
A section of Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska is currently off-limits, and the warning is worth a closer look before you plan your day on the water. It's the terminus of Aialik Glacier, the spot where the ice meets the sea. Park rangers have flagged this area as hazardous, and entering it is strictly prohibited until further notice.
The reason comes down to the glacier itself. Its terminal face is unstable, and blocks and columns of ice can break off without warning. When a mass that big collapses into the water, it throws up a tsunami-like wave, very localized but powerful. That wave washes over nearby beaches and the ones just uncovered by the retreating ice. In other words, a shoreline that looks calm can be underwater in seconds.
The consequences are serious. Rapidly collapsing ice and breakage can cause severe injury or even death. This isn't a precaution on principle. It's a real risk, and the park has documented it.
What this means for you is simple: keep your distance from the foot of the glacier. A lot of travelers see Aialik from a tour boat or by kayak, and it's tempting to get in close for the photo. Resist it. Stay well clear of the ice face and the beaches in its path, and follow your guides, who know the safety margin to keep.
This closure doesn't take anything away from the site, it just sets the terms for how you watch it. Calving ice is still a stunning sight, as long as you're seeing it from a safe spot. To plan the rest of your trip, along with the highlights and access points in the area, we cover it all in the Kenai Fjords park guide, where you'll find our tips for putting together an itinerary that's both beautiful and safe.