Rail and ice combine for a new Spencer Glacier tour

Ascending Path and the Alaska Railroad are teaming up to offer guided glacier hiking on Spencer Glacier.

Located in the Chugach National Forest, Spencer Glacier is just south of Portage Valley and Turnagain Arm in Southcentral Alaska. Small groups of five or less ride the train from Anchorage, Girdwood or Portage to the Spencer Whistle Stop, then hike the three-mile route to the glacier before donning helmets and crampons and hitting the ice.

The full-day adventure includes rail ticket, equipment and snacks and offers many opportunities for photography and to learn about the local wildlife, history and glaciology.

For additional thrills, visitors can add ice climbing or a helicopter drop off at the glacier to their trip.

The group returns to Anchorage or Girdwood via the Coastal Classic Train.

Trips run daily until September 10, 2011.

For more information, visit theascendingpath.com.