Alaska glacier weddings: Best glaciers & how to get there

If you’re dreaming of a wedding unlike any other—something wild, awe-inspiring, and uniquely you—an Alaska glacier wedding might be exactly what you’re looking for. With massive blue ice, towering peaks, and complete solitude, saying “I do” on a glacier is one of the most unforgettable ways to start your marriage.

Southcentral Alaska is home to some of the most accessible and stunning glaciers in the state. In this post, we’ll cover the top glacier locations for weddings, how to access each one, and helicopter tour companies that can help bring your glacier elopement vision to life.

Whether you’re planning a private ceremony for two or a small adventure wedding with your closest loved ones, Alaska’s glaciers offer the perfect mix of wild beauty and epic romance.

 

Top Glaciers for Weddings in Southcentral Alaska

Knik Glacier

One of the most popular glaciers for elopements, Knik Glacier is just an hour’s drive from Anchorage and stretches over 25 miles long. Its accessibility and stunning views make it a favorite among couples and photographers alike.

•Access: Only accessible via helicopter or snow machine. Helicopter is the most common and scenic option.

•Best For: Blue ice caves, dramatic cliffside glacier drops, and panoramic mountain views.

•Tour Companies:

•Outbound Heli Adventures

•Alaska Helicopter Tours

Matanuska Glacier

Unlike many others, Matanuska Glacier is accessible by road, which makes it a more budget-friendly option. It’s 2.5 hours from Anchorage and offers surreal, icy backdrops.

•Access: Drive-in access via Glacier Park entrance. Guided hikes available.

•Best For: Couples who want to stay grounded but still experience epic glacial views.

•Note: A permit or fee is typically required to access the private land.

Colony Glacier

Tucked near Lake George, Colony Glacier is incredibly remote and awe-inspiring. It’s an ideal location if you’re after an ultra-private experience with untouched ice.

•Access: Only accessible via helicopter.

•Best For: Couples who want serenity, untouched wilderness, and the chance to explore surreal ice fields.

•Tour Companies:

•Alaska Helicopter Tours

•Alpha Aviation

How to Choose a Glacier for Your Wedding

Each glacier has its own personality—some are easily accessible and welcoming, while others are wild and remote. When deciding, think about:

•How remote do you want the experience to feel?

•Do you want to fly or hike in?

•Are you looking for blue ice, dramatic cliffs, or a peaceful lake view?

No matter your style, there’s a glacier in Southcentral Alaska that fits your vision.

Helicopter Tour Companies for Glacier Weddings

Partnering with the right helicopter company makes all the difference. Here are a few top-rated options that specialize in glacier elopements and custom private tours:

•Alaska Helicopter Tours (Palmer) – Offers year-round tours to Knik Glacier, with private wedding/elopement packages.

•Outbound Heli Adventures (Palmer/Wasilla) – Locally owned and great for customized experiences.

Planning Tips for Glacier Weddings

•Hire a local photographer who knows the terrain and lighting (like Michelle Johns Photography!)

•Dress warmly—layers under your gown or suit can make a big difference. Faux furs and wool shawls photograph beautifully.

•Keep it small—glacier landings are typically limited to the couple, officiant, photographer, and pilot.

•Be flexible—weather can shift quickly. Always build buffer time into your travel and wedding day schedule.

Pair Your Glacier Wedding With the Perfect Venue Stay

While the glacier may be your ceremony backdrop, you’ll still want a cozy base for getting ready or celebrating afterward. If you’re looking for a unique place to stay or host a small post-wedding dinner, check out my post on The Best Wedding Venues in Alaska. From luxury lodges to cozy cabins near the glaciers, there are plenty of options to extend your adventure.

Final Thoughts

An Alaska glacier wedding is more than a ceremony—it’s an adventure of a lifetime. With Southcentral Alaska’s variety of glaciers, accessibility options, and helicopter partners, you can craft a wedding day that reflects your bold, wild love story.

If you’re ready to start planning your own glacier elopement, I’d love to help you choose the perfect spot, connect you with trusted vendors, and capture every icy, joy-filled moment.

Let’s make your glacier wedding dream come true. Contact me here to start planning!