Discover the Spectacular Castner Ice Cave and Glacier in Alaska

A Hidden Winter Wonder Near Your Ice Fishing Adventure

Make your Alaskan winter adventure unforgettable with a visit to the breathtaking Castner Ice Cave. Perfectly situated to complement your ice fishing experience, this natural gem offers a rare glimpse into the stunning world beneath a glacier.

Unlike the typical blue glaciers that calve into the ocean, Castner Glacier reveals a rugged, dramatic ice cave accessible only during the winter months. In the summer, rushing meltwaters block entry, but when the temperatures drop, the frozen waters open the door to this enchanting, otherworldly landscape.

What Makes Castner Glacier Unique?

A Rare Glacier Experience

Explore a glacier that’s different from Alaska’s famous ocean-bound ice formations. Covered in rock, mud, and snow during the winter, Castner Glacier offers a rugged beauty that’s unique to interior Alaska.

The Winter-Only Ice Cave

The highlight of Castner Glacier is its stunning ice cave, a natural formation that becomes accessible when the summer meltwaters freeze. Inside, marvel at the shimmering walls of ice, the intricate patterns, and the frozen beauty of nature.

The inside of Castner Ice Cave

Off the Beaten Path

The highlight of Castner Glacier is its stunning ice cave, a natural formation that becomes accessible when the summer meltwaters freeze. Inside, marvel at the shimmering walls of ice, the intricate patterns, and the frozen beauty of nature.

A photo of the inside of Castner Ice Cave

Breaking New Trails

There are no official trails or signs leading to the glacier, and paths are often covered by snowstorms or winds. 

The inside of Castner Ice Cave

Self-Guided Options

For those seeking independence and adventure, Castner Glacier offers a unique opportunity for self-guided exploration. Embark on your journey at your own pace, navigating the rugged terrain and experiencing the ice cave in a way that suits your style.

A Customized Adventure

Pair your Castner Ice Cave visit with our ice fishing excursions for a full day of Alaskan adventure.

What to Expect on Your Castner Ice Cave Visit

Duration of the Experience

The hike to the glacier is approximately 1 mile each way, over flat terrain with packed snow.

What to Bring

Wear warm clothing, sturdy boots, and gloves. A camera is a must to capture the breathtaking scenery.

Best Time to Visit

The ice cave is typically accessible from late November through early April, depending on weather and ice conditions.

Plan Your Visit to Castner Ice Cave Now

Exploring Castner Glacier and its ice cave is the perfect addition to your Alaska winter adventure. Combine it with our luxury ice fishing excursions for a truly unique experience.

Explore the Castner Ice Cave

Thousands of visitors explore the ice cave every winter, though it remains somewhat off the beaten path.

There are no marked trails or signs leading to the glacier or the cave. After snowstorms or heavy winds, the path often disappears, leaving new trails to be formed.

As an outfitter, we regularly break into new, safe trails to guide our guests, ensuring a secure and enjoyable journey through this beautiful, unspoiled landscape.

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