Sleeping on a Glacier: Our Once-in-a-Lifetime Trip with MICA Guides
Dani and I trekking our way through Matanuska Glacier.
There are trips you dream about and then there are trips that feel like dreams while you're living them. This was both. On June 6–7, Danika and I were hosted by MICA Guides on an overnight glacier camping adventure that still has me feeling awe-struck (and a little sore). From helicopter rides and glacier hikes to belaying down an actual ice wall and sipping wine on the edge of the world—this was Alaska like I’d never experienced it before. Here's everything you need to know, from what I wore and packed to what surprised me most.
And if you're already ready to book, use code farnorthfashion25 for 10% off any MICA adventure!
The Basics:
Location: Matanuska Glacier, about 2.5 hours northeast of Anchorage
Outfitter: MICA Guides
Trip Dates: June 6–7, 2025
Type of Experience: Helicopter-accessed glacier glamping
Cost: Hosted, but worth every penny if you're booking yourself
The Journey: We checked in around 12:30 p.m. at the MICA basecamp. After confirming our gear and swapping my too-big bag for their waterproof packs, we were fitted with crampons, boots, and gloves, and prepped for our heli drop-off. The helicopter ride was short but magical. It felt like being airlifted into another world.
Glacier Hike: Upon landing, we met our guide, Connor, who immediately set the tone: this trip was about us. Our pace, our preferences, our adventure. We hiked for about three hours across the glacier, stopping at mini pools, drinking fresh glacier water from a waterfall, and yes—belaying down a sheer wall of ice. That part was terrifying and empowering and had both Danica and me cracking up in disbelief. I fell once. Didn’t get hurt. Still proud.
Camp Life: Our home for the night? A tent perched on the glacier with a full-sized bed, chairs, slippers, and bedside tables. We were told to change and rest, then join them for happy hour. Out came the charcuterie board and fully stocked bar. Dinner was a coconut chickpea curry with naan and rice that I almost finished despite the snacking.
That evening we sat by the fire, made s'mores, and melted into the peace of it all. It was quiet, serene, and breathtaking. I found myself soaking in the silence, facing a snow-covered mountain, and feeling something I rarely do: complete peace.
Morning on the Ice: I woke to the sound of rain on the tent—my favorite sound, and even more magical knowing I was warm, dry, and curled up on a glacier. Hot coffee was brought to our tent at 7:30 a.m., followed by breakfast at 9:00: granola, yogurt, pancakes, eggs, sausage, and fruit. By then, fog had rolled in, delaying our helicopter pickup. I didn’t mind. I took the most glorious nap to the sound of rain and the promise of nothing to do.
Packing Tips: I was so proud of how I packed for this. Here's what worked:
Layers, layers, layers
Wool base layers from REI and Smartwool (kept me warm and dry)
Patagonia vest + fleece
Rain shell (lightweight and waterproof)
Wool leggings and fleece pants
Rain pants for layering
Smartwool socks + gloves (they provided waterproof gloves, too)
A good beanie (doubled as an eye mask because… Alaska summer = bright tent)
They also provided most gear: boots, crampons, gloves, snow pants, parkas, and backpacks. I didn’t need much else.
Would I Recommend It? Without hesitation. Even if you’re not outdoorsy. Even if you’re scared. Even if you’re unsure your body can do it. This trip was designed to meet you where you are. Connor never rushed us. We never felt like we were holding anyone back. It was empowering in ways I didn’t expect.
Final Thoughts: This isn’t just glamping. It’s luxury, solitude, and wild beauty bundled into one unforgettable experience. Sleeping on a glacier sounds extreme. But this? This was soul-nourishing, confidence-boosting, and honestly—something I want to do again someday. Next time, maybe with my kids.
P.S. Want behind-the-scenes video, what I packed, and even more stories I didn’t share here? Subscribe to the newsletter. Trust me—you don’t want to miss this one.