The Best Glaciers for First-Time Crampon Users
A first crampon walk is something you remember for life. Done well — with a proper operator, suitable boots, and a glacier with a low-angle clean surface — it is also remarkably approachable. Here is where to do it.
1. Solheimajokull, Iceland
The world capital of beginner glacier walks. Operators leave from a car park, walk fifteen minutes to the ice, then spend ninety minutes walking with rented crampons. Year-round.
2. Franz Josef, New Zealand
Heli-hike from the township to a flat section of the glacier. Crampons and boots provided. Tours typically run two to three hours including helicopter time.
3. Athabasca, Canada
The "Ice Walk" tours from the Columbia Icefield visitor centre are a gentler alternative to the snowcoach. Roughly three hours, very beginner-friendly.
4. Perito Moreno, Argentina
Hielo y Aventura's "mini-trekking" is a 90-minute crampon walk on a clean lower section. The "big ice" variant is harder and only for fit adults.
5. Mer de Glace, France
Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix runs introductory walks from Montenvers — a flexible half-day option after the cog railway.
6. Pasterze, Austria
Guided crampon descents from Franz-Josefs-Hohe combine with the classic viewpoint visit; bookable from Heiligenblut operators.
7. Briksdal / Nigardsbreen, Norway
Both Jostedalsbreen outlets have beginner walks operated by local guide companies. Nigardsbreen's water taxi-plus-walk is especially fun for families.
8. Stubaier Gletscher, Austria
Beginner walks on the surface of a summer ski area, well staffed and beginner-equipped.
9. Aletsch (Marjelensee), Switzerland
Beginner crampon walks on the eastern margin from Bettmerhorn, operated by the Aletsch Arena.
10. Exploradores, Chile
Easier than Perito Moreno; operators in Puerto Rio Tranquilo run half-day walks on a debris-covered section of the glacier.
Tips
Wear long trousers and waterproof boots (or rent both). Bring sun glasses and sun cream; reflected light off ice doubles UV. Listen to your guide on rope-team movement.
Plan your next trip
Filter to "beginner ice walk" on the interactive map for the full list, including small local operations not listed above.