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We did the Nova Matanuska Glacier Adventure Trek. Drew was our guide and was flippin amazing, top notch, and truly went above and beyond. Safety was his priority and at the same time encouraged us to test our limits ( but only if we wanted to). Drew definitely was a superior guide, he was very intelligent and knew all about the land. We trusted Drew and never doubted he would protect us from harms way. They provided the gear sturdy boots with crampons that had huge steel spikes so you could walk on an ice incline, up steep steps, climb down the side of a glacier, or traverse sideways along the sides of glaciers- so awesome. They also provided the climbing harness with the carabiner clips you wore the whole time. You will need your own warm waterproof gloves and rain gear, warm clothes, and sunglasses a must, the sun on the glaciers is beautiful but blinding.
Drew took us up and over crevasses and around moulin’s. He taught us about everything we were looking at, he carried this huge ice axe and chipped away paths for us. He made steps to stand on so we could safely make it to the other side and he built this rope like obstacle so we could hook up our carabiner clips and safely make it through. We also rappelled down a glacier, no experience necessary, no one in our group ever did that, he taught us how to lean into our harness and walk backwards while he controlled the ropes speed. Yes it was terrifying and exhilarating all at the same time. It was so much fun I cannot get over how good it felt to do this adventure. It ended up being the best part of our trip. I am confident that this was the best company to go with for sure!!! You will not be...
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We spent the last 8 days in Alaska. I did extensive research on which tour company I wanted to use on our trip, and the choice was easy. We did two tours with Nova, the Matanuska river rafting and the Matanuska glacier adventure trek, and to say they were both once in a lifetime adventures wouldn't do them justice. From the first 5 minutes with both sets of guides, there is zero doubt that:
#1. They have your safety as their top priority.
#2. That they love what they do, and they know their trips inside and out.
The river rafting guides were a blast, but they knew how to dial it in within a single second. I never once doubted they had me covered if something were to happen, and they were so much fun. The Glacier trek guides (Ben and Chantae) blew me away with their attention to detail and wealth of knowledge. When Ben said he comes out 7 days a week every morning with another guide (both of whom designed the course and program) to reform the steps inside the glacier and make sure the crevasse you climb down into is sturdy... my jaw dropped. I am so impressed with Nova and I'd pay them for these trips 100 times if I had the time.
What truly sets this outfit apart is the fact that these tours aren't just a job for these guides... it's a lifestyle, and one they readily and enthusiastically share with others.
Thank you Nova, and happy 50th...
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What an incredible experience! We wanted an adrenaline fix during our girls' weekend in Hope, and boy we got it. We did the 3 canyon whitewater rafting trip, and we will be talking about and reliving it for years to come.
Our guides were all amazing. A group led by a different outfitter was taking their swim test as we went by, and one of them missed the shore and continued floating down river. Without hesitation, our guide Reed helped her get back to her group, and quickly rejoined us to scout our journey down the river along with Luke, who never left his post and kept a watchful eye the entire time.
Bear was our captain on the helm. He gave clear, concise instructions and kept us on point during the hairy parts, but was engaging and fun to talk to during the calm stretches of the creek. Plus, he had a super rad mullet that not many can pull off convincingly, but he does. His hair is very symbolic of Six Mile Creek, wild and untamed, yet beautiful and majestic all at once.
Richard took photos along the way and gave us memories of a lifetime. He also manned the bus like a boss. He's able to back down a long 4x4 trail to the pick-up spot, ensuring we don't have to pack anything out (which I've heard you have to do with some other outfitters).
Top-notch crew at Nova. I highly recommend them and will definitely book with them...
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