Glacier View sends cars off 300-foot cliff for Fourth of July

Glacier View River Retreat sent decorated vehicles off a 300-foot bluff above the Matanuska River on Saturday afternoon near Sutton, about 100 miles northeast of Anchorage. More than 20 cars have been launched at the annual event in past years.

A Tradition Since 2005

Arnie Hrncir describes the event as a birthday party for the country. "F Day means it's freedom, faith, family, food, and fun," he said in a 2022 profile. The tradition dates to 2005.

Tickets and Camping

Launches began at 2 p.m. Hrncir advised attendees to arrive early because of traffic and parking along the Glenn Highway. All camping at $40 per night sold out for the holiday weekend. Adult admission in 2026 is $34.10, up from $20 in prior years. Children ages 5 to 14 pay $15.10, and children under 5 enter free. Military and veterans tickets are $25.49.

Safety

The ticketing page warns visitors to stay back from the riverbank and keep children away from the water.