Worthington Glacier Lookout Trail

The feel

A short paved path leads from the parking lot to a viewing platform overlooking Worthington Glacier, a valley glacier four miles long that descends almost to the highway. The path is wheelchair-accessible, with interpretive panels and benches along the way, and it continues down to the glacier water.

The recreation site sits in Thompson Pass on the Richardson Highway at Mile 29. It also has a pavilion with benches, a model of the glacier from decades ago that shows its rapid retreat, and a visitor center and gift shop open when volunteers are available.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 0.3 mile, with about 40 ft of gain. Paved and wheelchair-accessible, from the parking lot to a viewing platform and down to the glacier water.

Time

0.5 to 1 hour.

Crowds and best time

Best from June through August.

Parking

A parking lot at the recreation site, a very short walk from the viewpoint.

Fees and passes

$5 day use and parking fee.

Kids

Rated easy.

Hazards

Worthington Glacier Ridge Trail and Worthington Loop Trail are closed due to very hazardous conditions including rock slides.

Bathrooms and water

Vault toilets, which open seasonally.

Season and access

Open for the summer months, until closed by winter snow and ice conditions. Mile 29 of the Richardson Highway in Thompson Pass.

Mingo says

Plan this stop for June through August. The viewpoint is the safest way to see the glacier, so skip the closed ridge trails.

Before you go

• Carry $5 for the day use and parking fee.
• Do not use Worthington Glacier Ridge Trail or Worthington Loop Trail; the state has closed both.
• Expect vault toilets only in the summer months.
• Stay on the paved lookout path and viewing platform.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.