Columbia Glacier

It was an epic day as we ventured on a kayak tour to Columbia Glacier.  Our journey started with a leisurely 3 hour boat ride to the glacier with stops to see sea otters, sea lions and a humpback whale.  Once we arrived at our destination, we docked on shore and removed the kayaks.  From this beach we toured the eastern portion to the Columbia Glacier.  The views of the glacier and surrounding landscape were spectacular.  One of the many highlights was when a portion or the glacier calved right when we were paddling by it.  The adrenaline was flowing as a massive piece of ice fell into the icy water.

While drifting near the glacier, our guide shared some fascinating facts about Columbia Glacier’s dramatic history. Once one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world, it began a rapid retreat in the 1980s that continues today—having receded over 12 miles in just a few decades. This retreat has reshaped the landscape around Prince William Sound and serves as a powerful, up-close example of the impact of climate change. Seeing the towering face of the glacier in person, with its deep crevasses and electric blue ice, made the experience feel even more significant and humbling.