From Cache

Whittier Spencer Glacier Float with Optional Anchorage Transfer

5.0
1 reviews

Excursion Overview

One of Alaska's most scenic glacier river trips

Your adventure begins with a scenic train journey from Whittier to Spencer Whistle Stop. The Spencer Glacier area is only accessible via train and visitors are encouraged to explore the remote area. On this tour, you'll disembark and take off on a relaxing 7-mile float trip towards the Spencer Glacier Lake area.

Along the float, you will have chances to see the glacial landscapes with panoramic views of the mountains as you float the Placer River. Guests can expect to experience one of the best scenic glacier river trips that Alaska has to offer and may even get a chance to get close enough to touch the icebergs!

Bring warm clothes, and warm socks to wear with provided rubber boots. We recommend having a few layers to wear. Placer River is a Class I to II, mellow braided river, with no big rapids. Most guests will not get splashed with water. If you are concerned about getting splashed you can request a spot in the raft that is NOT “splashy” when speaking to your guide.

This tour is typically available from May through September. Our excursions were designed for cruise ship passengers but are available to everyone.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:

  • Transportation via the Glacier Discovery Train from Whittier to Spencer Glacier & back (optional transportation is available for this excursion. Please select the appropriate ticket type if you would like to travel to Anchorage by motorcoach after the glacier float tour)
  • Snack, Water & Hot Drink. (There is a Small Cafe on the Glacier Discovery Train with limited menu options - Sandwiches, Wraps, Pizza - for guests who need lunch. The Cafe is cashless and requires a credit or debit card.)
  • Gear/equipment: Provides rain jacket, life vest, rain boots, and rubber boots (if needed)

Requirements:

  • Minimum of 2 participants required to book
  • Guests must be able to climb in and out of the raft/river to the riverbank
  • Children must be able to wear a life vest and comfortably sit for at least 2.5 hours in a raft

Duration: Approximately 5.75 hours (roundtrip from the Whittier Train Depot, with optional transportation onward to Anchorage)

  • 12:15 PM - Meet at Whittier Train Depot
  • 12:45 PM - Train departs Whittier
  • 1:25 PM - Train stops briefly at Portage Station and departs again
  • 1:55 PM - Train arrives at Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop
  • 2:00 - 4:45 PM - Rafting tour
  • 5:00 PM - Reboard the train at Placer River
  • 5:15 PM - Return briefly to Portage Station
  • 6:05 PM - Return to Whittier Train Depot
  • Optional Transfer on to Anchorage: Guests arriving on Whittier cruise ships can take a motorcoach transfer to Anchorage at the end of the Spencer Glacier Float tour. The motorcoach departs from the Portage Train Depot at 5:15 PM and arrives in Anchorage around 6:45 PM. Please select the appropriate passenger type at checkout if you’d like to include the transfer.

Meeting Instructions:

  • This tour meets at the Whittier Tent / Whittier Train Station. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

  • This tour is wheelchair accessible. There are no ADA wheelchair lifts but can facilitate a rafting tour for guests in wheelchairs or with limited mobility. There is a wheelchair lift off of the train. Please leave a comment during checkout if accessibility accommodations will be required. If the operator is unaware beforehand of necessary accommodations, they may not be able to accommodate guests day of.

    • Fully Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
    • Limited Mobility Accessible: Yes
    • Stroller Accessible: Yes
    • Collapsible Wheelchair & Stroller Storage Available: Yes

Refund Policy:

  • You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
  • Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Moose, black bears, snowshoe hares, bald eagles, and beluga whales are among some of the wildlife you may see on this tour, however it is not a designated wildlife tour and specific wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

If you have a request to be with a friend, please let us know on the train. Max capacity is 9 adults in each raft. Most often we have 7 to 8 guests per raft. Please let us know if you want a private raft for your family, there will be an additional cost for a private raft.

Placer River Float is a Class I to II (With High Water), mellow braided river, no big rapids. Most guests will not get splashed with water. If you are concerned about getting splashed request a spot in the raft that is NOT “splashy” when speaking to your guide.

A snack, water & hot drink are included. There is a Small Cafe on the Glacier Discovery Train with limited menu options including sandwiches, wraps, and pizza for guests that need lunch. The Cafe is cashless and requires a credit or debit card.

There are restrooms on the train and at the Spencer Whistle Stop. There are no restrooms on the river, backcountry options only.

Bring warm clothes, and warm socks to wear with provided rubber boots. We recommend having a few layers to wear. For more detailed packing tips for your Alaskan vacation, check out our What to Pack for Your Alaskan Cruise guide.

Yes! Guests arriving via Whittier cruise ships can take a motorcoach transfer to Anchorage at the end of the Spencer Glacier Float tour. The motorcoach departs from the Portage Train Depot at 5:15 PM and arrives in Anchorage at approximately 6:45 PM.

Select the appropriate passenger ticket at checkout.

Your luggage will remain on the train for the day while you enjoy the tour. You’ll receive a bag tag indicating your bags’ final destination, so they’ll be ready for you when you arrive in Anchorage.

 

Guest Reviews

5.0

1 total

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Chad S

On Aug 2019

Fun for family. Guides were friendly and knowledgeable.

From:

$249.00

Best Price Guarantee!

From:

$249.00

Duration: 5.75 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 5.75 hours



Minimum of 2 Required to Book

Adult (12+): $249.00

Child (2-11): $127.00

Minimum of 2 Required to Book

Adult (12+ with Anchorage transportation included): $279.00

Child (2-11 with Anchorage transportation included): $140.50

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