best alaska glacier helicopter tour

Experience the Thrill

Alaska helicopter adventure tours, fly with us into the untouched beauty of alaska’s vast wilderness. outbound heli offers year round flightseeing, glacier landings, weddings & guided adventures such as ice climbing and glacier paddle boarding., we are the closest glacier tour operator to anchorage, knik glacier tours.

Come experience the beauty of the vast Knik Glacier & it’s icy blue pools. Choose from a few different adventures.

reasons to fly with oUtbound Heli Adventures:

Safety first.

Safety is of the utmost importance to us. View Our Safety Policy to see what sets us apart from other Alaska helicopter providers.

Your Experience Matters to us

We’re committed to making sure your tour with us is the highlight of your trip! Every flight is a personalized excursion; Let’s check some things off of your bucket list together!

Alaskan Owned

We are locally owned and operated! Your dollars support the local economy and allow us to give back to the land that gives us so much!

Get ready for an unforgettable alaskan adventure that transports you away from the crowds

Alaska flightseeing tours…, knik glacier explorer, chugach explorer, prince william sound spectacul-air, scenic sampler, … or action packed guided adventures, glacier paddleboarding, ice climbing, glacier trekking, packrafting, heli hiking, alaska dog sled tours, alaska adventure weddings & special events, helicopter elopement packages.

Fly into the Alaska wilderness on an unforgettable wedding adventure. Say I do beside a beautiful blue pool on the Knik Glacier, in front of a massive ice wall or high up in the Chugach mountains!

our philosophy

Your experience matters.

Here at Outbound Heli Adventures, our team is small and we want your time with us to be the standout experience of your trip to Alaska! Pre booking we are always available to answer calls and suggest tours that would be best for your group. On the day of your adventure our skilled pilots are ready to fly you to some of the most exquisite and off-the-beaten-path locations in Alaska!

The flight adventure of a lifetime

What past customers are saying, “the most amazing, spectacular adventure.”.

“The team at Outbound go out of their way to ensure a fabulous experience and adventure. The glacier was spectacular, an out of the world experience. Almost felt like we were on another planet. Dropping in from a helicopter allowed us to experience the full magnificence and expanse of the Alaskan wilderness. If you are even considering book this – just do it! Life is short and this is an amazing adventure. You deserve this experience.”

– Stephen

“ book it…..now ”.

“From first contact via email to thanking their team and walking out the door, outbound was absolutely amazing! our trip to Knik glacier was a special one for multiple reasons and they exceeded what we had envisioned.

highly recommend outbound heli adventures to anyone planning a trip to one of the most beautiful spots mother nature has created.

book it…..now! ”

– Jared

“one of the best experiences of our lives.”.

“ We did a glacier landing adventure, and unlike some other companies in the area (who we saw land and leave very quickly) we had a good amount of time on the ice where Chris took us on a mini hike to some of the waterfalls and pools on the glacier. It was truly a memorable experience and highly recommend it to everyone. ”

– Michael

NorthStar Helicopters

Helicopter flightseeing & glacier tours in juneau, alaska, choose your adventure, glacier treks.

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GLACIER DOG SLEDDING

Glacier airboats.

Experience the ultimate Alaska heli-skiing terrain in the heart of the Chugach Range with NorthStar Helicopters. Our experienced pilots will provide safe and efficient transport to exclusive terrain where fresh, untracked powder is abundant. Find endless opportunities to achieve your wildest heli-ski dreams under the guidance of our expert team.

• Most Popular

Helicopter Glacier Trek

Embark on a rugged hike through the ever-changing glacial icescape of Juneau, Alaska! This unique adventure provides two hours to explore and master glacier trekking techniques.

• Info Moderate
• User 12+ years old
• Hour Glass 4.25 hours

Featured Adventures

• User 8+ years old
• Hour Glass 3.25 hours

Helicopter Glacier Walkabout

The Walkabout offers a personalized experience and the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the Mendenhall Glacier’s most stunning features.

• Info Easy/moderate
• User 7+ years old

Taku Glacier Helicopter & Airboat Adventure

Venture into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness by air, water, and ice! This is a rare opportunity to experience Juneau’s largest glacier from all possible perspectives.

• User 2+ years old

Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Adventure

Join us on this truly Alaskan adventure and experience the magnificence of Juneau’s Norris Glacier through the eyes of an Iditarod musher!

Embark on a rugged hike through the ever-changing glacial icescape of Juneau, Alaska! This unique adventure provides two hours to explore and master glacier trekking techniques.

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True Exploration

Alaska is beautiful, yet largely inaccessible. to truly appreciate and experience this incredible land, one must take to the skies, soar among the peaks and ultimately land in a remote setting..

During our many years of exploring this special place, both by helicopter and on foot, the glaciers of Southeast Alaska have remained one of the most unique and captivating features we have encountered.

Since day one, we have been dedicated to sharing this environment with others through our top-rated helicopter glacier treks and tours. NorthStar Trekking was started with safety as the top priority and a commitment to provide an outdoor adventure tailored to the interests and abilities of each guest. Let our experienced team of pilots, guides and support staff guide you on an unforgettable Alaska experience. We look forward to seeing you on the glacier.

Hear from our many satisfied guests!

We booked the Helicopter Glacier Walkabout tour and it surpassed our wildest dreams! The staff was friendly and helpful, the equipment was in good condition, and the pilot and guides were knowledgeable. The thing that made it most worthwhile was the extraordinary views.

Some local friends pointed us to this company. Our pilot took us by some breathtaking spots on the way up, then our knowledgeable and friendly guide took us around the glacier. We and our kids had a great experience among this alien looking landscape.

My dream was to be a helicopter pilot. The pilots that we had were great (sorry I forgot your names but you both were great). Landed us on the ice light as a feather. Our excursion was to trek on the glacier and climb a 28ft ice ridge.

We took their Taku water,air and ice tour up the Taku river and to the Taku glacier. Mike our pilot was great and we had such an amazing day. It was so beautiful and almost seemed like a dream. If you can take this tour, DO IT!!!

The best day ever. Beautiful landscape (incredible and amazing landscapes) . We Learned a Lot about the dog camp thanks to Joy our guide. We want to do it again!! It's a must.

GLACIER TOURS OVERVIEW

Fly over the massive beautiful glaciers of the Knik River Valley.

Helicopter Glacier Tours

Fly over the massive beautiful glaciers of the Knik River Valley. Just a short 45 min drive north of Anchorage, the Alaska Glacier Lodge hosts the departure location for all of our yer round Glacier Landing Tours!

With multiple Glacier Landing options, you are sure to find one that will help you make the check mark on your bucket list you have been looking for. A perfect day tour from Anchorage to the Mat-Su Valley, these Alaska Glacier Tours are perfect to add to your Alaskan adventures!

Transfers are available from Anchorage upon request.

Glacier Landings April 15 - October 1st land on top of the Knik Glacier. Landing next to the massive brilliant blue melt pools near the deep winding crevasses that have split over time, you will be in awe as soon as the glacier first comes into view. Carefully hiking with your experienced pilot guide, you will be provided all of the safety equipment needed. Add the photo/GoPro video package for the opportunity to put down your phone/camera and let us capture the moments for you while you take in the wonder of the ancient glacier unplugged.

Glacier Landings October - April land next to the frozen Knik Glacier where you have the opportunity to walk between the frozen ice formations. This unique opportunity during the cold months allows us to land on the frozen glacial lakes to get you up close and into the pillars of brilliant blue ice. 

Call Us Today Talk to our Alaska travel experts to help book your next Heli Tour!

(907) 272-7777

Available *

Departures:

Alaska Glacier Lodge

Glacier Landing

Total Flight:

Approx 30 Min

Tour Duration:

60 Minute Knik Landing Tour

3x Remote Landing

Grand Knik Tour

*Private Tour * Includes Lunch

Not Available

Approx 20 Min

Glacier Ice Climbing

Jun 1 - Sep 15

Glacier Paddle Boarding

Total Duration

Total Flight

Not sure where to start?

Talk to one of our experienced alaska travel experts to help book your next heli tour.

(800) 469-0177

Call our local number at (907) 272-7777, or call us toll-free at (800) 469-0177, or you can email us.

Operating Schedule

Our winter office hours are 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. From May 1st through September 15th, we are available from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

29979 E Knik River Rd

Palmer, AK 99645

Tel:  907-272-7777

Email: [email protected]

HOME TOURS DOGSLEDDING

© 2023 by AHT    Created by Viable Solutions Alaska

© 2023 by AHT. Created by Viable Solutions Alaska

Tel. 123-456-7890 Palmer , Alaska

TOURS DOGSLEDDING

(907) 351-7587

Matanuska Glacier Helicopters offers Helicopter Tours from Sheep Mountain Air, with Glacier Landing Activities from MICA Guides. Ranging from Relaxed Aerial Glacier Sightseeing to an Advanced Fly-In Trekking or Ice Climbing Expedition, the  choice is yours.  Matanuska Glacier Helicopters helps you see the Matanuska Valley in all of it’s glory.  The Matanuska Glacier stretches 27 miles into the mountain, and we don’t want you to miss out on an inch of it.  From the air you can see the glacier, the surrounding mountain passes, and Alaska’s majestic wildlife.  Matanuska Glacier Helicopters brings together the highly trained guides from MICA Guides and the best Alaska helicopter professionals from Sheep Mountain Air to make these tours a must do when traveling to Glacier View, about 2 hours NE of Anchorage. We also offer Winter Tour Options

Matanuska Glacier Tours

Sheep Mountain Air

Alaska Helicopter Tours

Glacier overnight adventure.

Spend the night out on a glacier in luxury.  Fly out and camp in comfort and style.

Helicopter Explorer

Take a Helicopter to the Glacier.  3 hours on white ice.

Ultimate Helicopter Glacier Tour

Spend 6-7 hours on ice, after taking a scenic flight out on a Helicopter.

Helicopter Ice Climbing

Spend 3-4 hours on ice, while taking a direct flight to the climbing.

Matanuska Glacier Helicopter Tour

Take a flight and explore the glacier from the air. FLIGHT ONLY

Glacier Helicopter Landing

Take the express lane to Matanuska Glacier. 30 minutes in the air and 15 minutes on ice.

Glacier Flight and Hiking

Fly out and Hike the Matanuska Glacier for 45 minutes.

Bucket List Helicopter Experience

Let us know what you want out of your 1.5 hour helicopter and glacier activity.

Matanuska Glacier Helicopters and Hikes

Let Matanuska Glacier Helicopters coordinate an aerial view of the Matanuska Glacier, the Matanuska River, and the Peaks of the Surrounding Mountain Range.  Book your Tour, and prepare to be in awe. We are a short drive from Anchorage, with a beautiful scenic drive the whole way here. Sheep Mountain Air can take you up for 25 minute flights, or land you on the glacier to join MICA Guides for an incredible hiking experience.  We want to make this flight one of the best experiences of your life, so Book Online or call us at  (907) 351-7587

Guided by MICA Guides, Flown by Alaska Professionals

MICA Guides is part of the Exposure Alaska family of companies providing a variety of Guided Tours in Alaska, including Glacier Hiking, Ice Climbing, Trekking Expeditions, Kayaking Trips, Zipline Adventures, and more.  MICA Guides accommodates all levels of tours, from Scenic Hikes to Multi-Week Expeditions through the wilderness.

We only fly with the best!  The most experienced pilots with the best helicopters.  We may partner with different flight operators depending on the location and the mission but they’re all licensed, insured, and experienced in Alaska aviation.

We want you to see the Matanuska Valley the right way, from the sky.  The immense scale of the glacier can only be truly realized from the seat of our helicopters.  Guided by MICA Guides , one of the most popular Guiding companies in Alaska, our helicopter tours have the best local information from people experienced in hiking, climbing and mountaineering. All of our guides and pilots are rigorously trained and prepared to make your tour as good as it gets.

Matanuska Glacier News

Kicking off another season at Glacier Camp

By Caroline | 2023-12-25T17:48:13-08:00 April 22nd, 2023 | Categories: Alaska Camping , Alaska Glacier Tours , Alaska Guided Tours , Alaska Holidays , Exploring Alaska , Glacier View Activities , Matanuska Glacier Guides , Matanuska Glacier Helicopters | Tags: Alaska building projects with helicopters , Alaska Camping , Alaska glacier camping , camping on the Matanuska , Glacier View glacier tours , helicopter glacier tours , luxury camping on a glacier , Matanuska Valley stays , unique glacier experiences |

The Experience of a Lifetime In the summer of 2020 with the help and expertise of MICA Guides, Alpenglow Luxury Camping, and Matanuska Glacier Helicopters, the Glacier Overnight Adventure was created. This is a truly unique way to experience Alaska and the Matanuska Glacier. The Glacier Overnight Adventure is a remote, fly-in camp set up a few miles back on the Matanuska Glacier. 2023 Glacier Camp Bell Tent When it all started a few years back there were backpacking tents set up on the ice. By year 3, we had three platform canvas bell tents with queen-sized [...]

Wildlife Viewing: Helicopter Edition

By Caroline | 2022-12-19T01:11:45-08:00 December 19th, 2022 | Categories: Alaska Glacier Tours , Alaska Guided Tours , Alaska Photography Tours , Exploring Alaska , Glacier View Activities , Matanuska Glacier Helicopters , Matanuska Glacier Information , Matanuska Glacier Wildlife | Tags: Alaska Wildlife , Helicopter Tours |

Alaskan Wildlife Alaska is well known for its spectacular wildlife both big and small.  People come from all over the world to experience the wild and grandeur of the Alaskan terrain. One of the best ways to see some of Alaska's most sought after wildlife is via helicopter. Helicopter tours provide a unique aerial view covering more ground than you could on foot or by car. View from helicopter flight through the Matanuska Valley Many parts of Alaska remain untouched and in their purest natural form making it a haven for outdoor lovers everywhere. Whether you are [...]

An Eye for Glaciers

By Ali | 2022-03-02T16:41:01-08:00 February 17th, 2022 | Categories: Alaska Glacier Tours , Alaska Guided Tours , Alaska Photography Tours , Exploring Alaska | Tags: glacier photography tours , glacier photography tours near Anchorage , Photography and trekking on Alaska glacier , photography tours Matanuska Glacier , private Matanuska Glacier tour |

Glacier Photography Tours Heading out onto the 27-mile long Matanuska Glacier provides an opportunity to catch those beautiful sunny days and superb lighting. Often, the sun is shining, the blue ice glimmers, and the adventure is boundless. It only makes sense that you would want to capture the perspective of these breath taking elements as you explore. Finding those perfect shots on a glacier can come with some hurdles. Now, you can take those challenges in stride, capture great photos and videos, and have a fun time exploring the ice. Take out some hassle and have [...]

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Helicopter Glacier Adventure

Matanuska Glacier is one of the best glaciers to enjoy in Alaska, especially by Helicopter.  Our Helicopter Adventures are featured in only our best Alaska adventure packages.

Featured in these Packages

Maximum Exposure Helicopter Adventure

Family and Private Adventures

Xxtreme Week

Description.

There is nothing that’s not cool about flying in a helicopter! 

Exploring the Matanuska Glacier and learning to ice climb are incredible adventures. So how do you make even more of an adventure?  With a helicopter. See what a Helicopter Glacier Adventure can show you.

We’ve found that using a helicopter can get us to the most spectacular features of the glacier and cut out hours of hiking through the rocks. In other words, this is your best chance to find an ice cave, climb a glacier wall and explore far from the “tourists”. Plus, you get to fly in a helicopter!

Book Maximum Exposure

Using a helicopter for your adventure can give us a big headstart on a backpacking trip.  Additionally, this cuts out large chunks of transportation time and gets you straight into the backcountry without the extra bushwhacking. This allows us to guide you to some of the most remote spots in Alaska, far from the tourists!

Our partner company, Matanuska Glacier Helicopters , provides several  day tours that you and your group may enjoy.  Featuring Scenic Helicopter Tours , partial day Helicopter Hiking , and full day Heli-Adventures , our partner company offers a helicopter tour for everyone.

Helicopter Scenic Tour

Scenic Tour :  The Scenic Tour features a 25 minute flight with Sheep Mountain Air.  Fly into the mountains and over the glacier, and take sight of the incredible ice formations exclusive to this birds eye view. Furthermore, this tour is reasonably priced, and an incredible experience.

Book Scenic Flight

Helicopter Glacier Trek

Make the Most of your Time

Helicopter Hiking :  Enjoy a scenic flight and step out onto the ice with your professional glacier guide to find the best features of the Matanuska. Subsequently this route will take you to the peace and seclusion few get to enjoy. Approximately 20 minutes of flight time and 1.5 hours on the glacier.

Book Heli Hike

Ultimate Heli-Tour

Ultimate Helicopter Adventure Tour :  This private trip is the best helicopter adventure you can fit into one day.  30 minutes of flight time, with a drop-off to explore our “secret stash” of ice features on the glacier. With 4 to 5 hours to explore with your professional guide, this is the ultimate Matanuska Glacier experience. In addition, this is your best opportunity to find an ice cave, explore the glacier away from the crowds, and learn to ice climb if you like! This private trip is tailored to your group.

Book Ultimate Heli Adventure

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Alaska Helicopter Tours

Alaska by land is thrilling. But Alaska by helicopter? That’s epic.

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• Denali Park Glacier Landing
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Activity Finder

Quick and nimble in their ability to reach remote corners of the state, helicopters are a popular way to tour Alaska's otherwise unreachable locations. If you're looking for an excursion to top all others, consider a helicopter flightseeing adventure. Alaska Tour & Travel has several options available, often with a glacier landing, sled dog ride, or alpine hike added for even more thrills.

One of the most popular heli-tours is 40 minutes south of Anchorage in the small ski town of Girdwood . Here guests are whisked onto Punch Bowl Glacier for a Glacier Sled Dog tour featuring Alaska's canine athletes at their summer training camp location. After a short helicopter ride, you can experience the thrill of mushing behind a dog team in one of the most pristine places in the world. A similar trip can be accessed just north of Anchorage on the Knik Helicopter Glacier Sled Dog flight , which flies to Colony Glacier overlooking the scenic Knik River valley.

Interested in alpine hiking? Helicopters can touch down on rocky ridge lines with ease, allowing for access that normally would take days, or even weeks, to reach. The Knik Heli-Hiking Adventure is one option. It combines helicopter flightseeing with a backcountry hike in the Chugach Mountains.

The area east of Denali National Park also offers heli-hiking and glacier landing tours. From the Denali Park area, Denali Glacier Landing guests soar up and over the eastern Alaska Range's craggy ridges before settling upon an ice field for a bit of glacial exploration.

Active adventurers looking for an immersive backcountry experience will enjoy a three-hour Denali Heli-Hiking Adventure . A naturalist guide leads the trek, picking a path that suits every interest and fitness level while pointing out flora and fauna native to the Denali National Park area.

While visiting Denali National Park, be sure to pair your helicopter tour with other park activities like a bus tour or sled dog kennel visit to round out the experience.

For additional fixed-wing flight options, visit our Alaska flightseeing page.

Denali Helicopter Heli-Hiking Tour

Ideal for active adventurers eager to experience real Alaskan backcountry, this heli-hike excursion takes guests into the remote mountains east of Denali National Park. Learn More >

Knik Helicopter Glacier Dog Sled Tour

Fly to a sled dog camp high up Colony Glacier on this bucket-list trip departing less than an hour outside of Anchorage. Learn More >

Girdwood Helicopter Glacier Dog Sled Tour

Fly in an R44 helicopter, land on a snow-covered cirque glacier, and take a ride with sled dogs training for the Iditarod on this two-hour adventure out of Girdwood. Learn More >

Knik Helicopter Glacier Landing Tour

Take a walk on one of Alaska's beautiful glaciers on this popular helicopter flight and guided ice walk departing just an hour outside of Anchorage. Learn More >

Denali Helicopter Tundra Express Flight

Fly above Alaska's true wilderness (and step out into it) on this popular helicopter tour taking off out of the Denali Park area. Learn More >

Denali Helicopter Glacier Landing Flight

Spend 70 memorable minutes flying through the eastern Alaska Range and exploring a glacier by foot on this bucket-list helicopter tour out of the Denali Park area. Learn More >

Knik Heli-Hiking Adventure

Combine the thrill of a helicopter flight with the freedom of remote alpine hiking on this four-hour active adventure near Anchorage. Learn More >

Knik Helicopter Grand Knik Tour

Reach the remote on this distinctive two-hour heli tour featuring three landing sites. Learn More >

Valdez Helicopter Tour Glacier View

Experience the unparalleled landscape surrounding Valdez on this 30-minute helicopter flight. Learn More >

Valdez Helicopter Tour Glacier Explorer

Explore the landscape surrounding Valdez on this unforgettable 60-minute helicopter tour with glacier landing. Learn More >

Valdez Helicopter Tour Columbia Glacier Spectacular

Get an up-close view of the massive Columbia Glacier on this 90-minute helicopter tour with glacier landing. Learn More >

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Best Alaska Helicopter Tours

Published: Jan 01, 2021 Last Updated: Nov 30, 2023

Helicopter tours in Alaska are popular shore excursions. Though a helicopter trip can be an investment, almost everyone agrees that they’re worth every penny and are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that the whole family can enjoy. In Alaska, scenic helicopter tours allow you to fly over glaciers , mountain lakes, forests, and more.

Read on to find our picks for the best helicopter tours in Alaska:

1. Juneau Icefield Helicopter Tour

Port: Juneau

Points of Interest: Juneau Icefield, Herbert Glacier

Highlights: Helicopter, Glacier

Enjoy majestic views as you ride in a helicopter over Juneau Icefield, then land upon Herber Glacier. You’ll take a relaxing stroll along the glacier’s surface with this Juneau helicopter tour.

2. Skagway Glacier Helicopter Tour

Port: Skagway

Points of Interest: May include Chilkat Glacier, Ferebee Glacier, or Meade Glacier (route is weather-dependent)

Highlights: Helicopter, Glacier Walk

This Skagway helicopter tour allows you to view the amazing glaciers around Skagway and walk atop a the river of ice.

3. Denali Glacier Landing Expedition via Helicopter

Port: Denali

Points of Interest: Alaska Range, Yanert Icefield

On this Denali helicopter tour, you can take a helicopter ride to an ancient glacier, deep in the Alaska Range. You’ll land on the Yanert Icefield and have the chance to see wildlife including caribou, bears, and Dall sheep.

4. Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter Tour

Points of Interest:   Mendenhall Glacier , Juneau Icefield , Herbert Glacier

On this tour, you can take a helicopter ride and land on the mighty Mendenhall Glacier. Once you land, your guide will take you a short glacier walk, where you can take photos and look for wildlife.

5. Ketchikan Mountain Lake Tour via Helicopter

Port: Ketchikan

Points of Interest: Tongass National Forest

Highlights: Helicopter, Forest

Explore the Tongass National Forest by air. This helicopter tour allows you to view wildlife, mountain lakes, and a beautiful and dramatic landscape.

6. Juneau Dog Sledding & Glacier Helicopter Tour

Points of Interest: Juneau Icefield, Mendenhall Glacier

Highlights: Helicopter, Glacier, Dog Sledding

On this trip, you can combine a helicopter ride over the glaciers of Juneau Icefield with a once-in-a-lifetime Alaska dog sledding tour.

7. Skagway Dog Sledding & Glacier Flightseeing Helicopter Tour

Points of Interest: Denver Glacier

Combine a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour with a Skagway dog sledding ride. You can meet professional mushers and their friendly dogs.

8. Ketchikan Herring Cove Tour via Helicopter

Points of Interest: Herring Cove, Tongass National Forest, Revillagigedo Channel

Highlights: Helicopter, Wildlife

Take a 20 minute helicopter ride above the Tongass National Forest to Herring Cove, where black bears frequently feed on salmon.

9. Denali Glacier Landing Expedition via Helicopter

Points of Interest: Alaska Range, Denali National Park, Yanert Glacier, Mt. Deborah

On this Denali helicopter tour, you can take a helicopter ride to an ancient glacier, deep in the Alaska Range. You’ll land on the anciet Yanert Glacier and have the chance to see wildlife including caribou, bears, and Dall sheep.

10. Ketchikan Roundabout Tour Via Helicopter

Points of Interest: Ketchikan

Highlights: Helicopter

This brief, 10-15 minute scenic helicopter tour allows you an aerial view of Ketchikan and a chance to view amazing Alaskan wildlife.

What to Expect on Your Helicopter Tour

Helicopter tours usually begin with an aerial view of some of Alaska’s most beautiful and majestic glaciers. The perspective on these vast and expansive rivers of ice is both humbling and awe-inspiring. While glaciers look big and beautiful from the ground, you can better comprehend their beauty and size from the sky.

Everyone gets a headset at the beginning of the flight, and the pilot talks through the sights as you fly over them - giving you stories and insights on the picturesque landscape.

Then, in what is many people’s favorite part of the trip, the helicopter lands on a glacier and passengers can step out onto the icy ground for a first-hand experience of what the Ice Age was like. Surrounded by mountains, with thick snow under your feet, you’ll get a once-in-a-lifetime glacier experience.

Travelers get time to walk around and explore the glacier and to ask the pilot questions before boarding the helicopter again and returning to port.

Ready for more tours? Check out the 10 best tours in Alaska or consider tours on land or by train .

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Juneau Icefield Helicopter Tour and Glacier Hike

Soar over the massive juneau icefield with landing for a guided walk on the glacier..

Photo Journey:

Home » City-Based Day Tours » Juneau » Juneau Icefield Helicopter Tour and Glacier Hike

Day Tour Details

What's included:.

• Roundtrip scenic flight from Juneau
• Glacier trekking equipment including crampons
• Guide services
• Transfers from your Juneau hotel
• All taxes and fees

We returned from our Alaskan vacation yesterday. Just want to say thank you for helping me plan this great vacation. We had a wonderful time.

Scott | Wisconsin

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Discover Alaska's Stunning Glaciers

Best glacier tours in alaska.

• Glacier Tours in Alaska

Each tour provides a unique way to experience the grandeur of these icy giants. Here’s a rundown of the top glacier tours in Alaska, promising breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

1. Endicott Arm Fjord and Glacier Tour

Embark on an incredible journey through the Endicott Arm aboard a high-speed vessel designed to bring you up close to tide water glaciers. Enjoy detailed narrations about the area's natural history as you maneuver near vast ice formations and possibly witness calving glaciers. The tour includes stops for wildlife viewing, with potential sightings of seals, eagles and bears, making it one of the premier glacier tours in Alaska.

2. The Hubbard Glacier Tour Wilderness Explorer

Navigate through Disenchantment Bay toward the awe-inspiring Hubbard Glacier on this exclusive boat tour. Experience the thrill of getting up close to the largest tidewater glacier in North America, surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of Yakutat Bay. Your journey is enhanced by expert commentary on the local ecology and potential wildlife encounters, including the elusive glacier bear.

3. Seaplane Exploration Glacier Tour

Take to the skies for a spectacular aerial view of five different glaciers in the Juneau Icefield. This seaplane tour offers a unique perspective of Alaska’s icy wonders, including the impressive Taku Glacier. The flight provides an unforgettable experience of flying over deep crevasses and stunning ice formations, complete with expert narration about each glacier’s distinct features.

4. Mendenhall Glacier Tour by Helicopter

Fly over the vast Juneau Icefield and land on the Mendenhall Glacier for a guided walk across this magnificent ice mass. This tour combines the thrill of a helicopter ride with the awe of trekking on a glacier, offering close-up views of crevasses, ice streams and other glacial features. Your knowledgeable guide will help you understand the dynamic nature of glaciers during this interactive and educational tour.

5. Pilot's Choice Glacier Tour Exploration by Helicopter

Experience personalized flightseeing with a pilot who selects the best routes based on current conditions. This helicopter tour explores remote areas of the Juneau Icefield, landing at two different pristine locations. Learn about the geological processes that shape these icy landscapes, making it one of the most educational and adventurous glacier tours in Alaska.

6. Tracy Arm Fjord and Glacier Tour Explorer

This comprehensive tour takes you along Tracy Arm Fjord to the twin Sawyer Glaciers. Enjoy insights from an onboard naturalist as you sail past towering cliffs and lush forests. The journey is not just about the glaciers; it’s also rich in wildlife sightings, including seals, eagles and perhaps even whales. The tour concludes with a delicious picnic-style meal, complemented by the stunning backdrop of Alaska’s natural beauty.

7. Glacier Tour Flightseeing

Combine the excitement of helicopter flightseeing with the unique experience of dog sledding on Denver Glacier. This tour includes aerial views of Skagway's rugged landscapes followed by an exhilarating dog sled ride across the glacier. Meet experienced mushers and their teams of Alaskan huskies and learn about the sport of dog sledding while enjoying the pristine icy environment.

Each of these glacier tours in Alaska offers a distinct and memorable way to explore the state’s icy wilderness, providing adventure, education and plenty of photo opportunities. Whether by air, sea or land, these tours are perfect for those looking to experience the natural wonders of Alaska up close.

Experience Glacier Tours in Alaska with these sailings

Complete your adventure with these shore excursions

The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

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There are some cruise destinations — Barcelona, for instance, or Venice — where you really don’t need to sign up for shore excursions . You can just walk off the ship and head to the major attractions on your own.

For the most part, the ports of Alaska aren’t like that.

To get the most out of an Alaska cruise , you’ll want to sign up for a tour in most if not all of the ports you visit. And not just any old tour. You’ll be looking for the best Alaska shore excursions that get you out into the Alaska backcountry.

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In Alaska, many of the biggest “attractions” — breathtaking mountain landscapes, glaciers, fjords, breaching whales and feeding bears, for instance — are related to the Great Outdoors. As a result, many of the best Alaska shore excursions for cruisers are found outside of the towns where ships stop. If you just stay in the towns and explore on your own, you’ll miss a big part of what Alaska is all about.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler  

Picking the best Alaska shore excursions

People who know me know that I love talking about Alaska port towns. This isn’t just because I spent more than two decades writing about Alaska and other cruise destinations for major newspapers. For many years, I was the co-author of Frommer’s “Alaska Cruises & Ports of Call” guide. In researching nearly half a dozen editions of that book, I spent many days exploring each of the major cruise ports in the state. I’ve tried a large number of the shore excursions in places such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. I’ve also poked around these towns a lot on my own.

As noted above, my biggest message to anyone planning an Alaska cruise is to get out of the towns . Sign up for something — a hike, a rafting trip, a train ride, a fishing outing — that gets you out into Alaska’s spectacular outdoor settings.

But I also have a few specific, top-line pro tips when you’re thinking about the best Alaska shore excursions:

• Get up in the air . It’ll be expensive. We’re talking $250 or more per person. But there’s nothing like seeing the grandeur of Alaska from a helicopter or floatplane. The Juneau Icefield, in particular, is a sight to behold. It covers around 1,500 square miles. You can see it on a flightseeing tour from Juneau, with some tours including landings on the ice.
• Don’t miss the whales. Even if you’re not a big wildlife person, you’ll be mesmerized by the humpback whales of Alaska. They are huge (at up to 52 feet, longer than a Greyhound bus), and there are boat tours that will get you up close to them. The best places to do this are out of Juneau and also Icy Strait Point if your ship stops there.
• Splurge for a trip to Misty Fjords National Monument . This glacier-carved wilderness area, not far from Ketchikan, is another don’t-miss sight. It’s everything you think of when you think of Alaska: icy blue lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys. The only way to get there is on a boat or floatplane tour, and they typically start at over $200 a person.

Unfortunately, as you can see from the above, many of the most spectacular excursions in Alaskan ports are expensive. But Alaska is not a place to skimp. Alaska is a place where you may want to budget almost as much per person for your shore excursions as you do for your cabin.

That said, you don’t have to splurge for a big outing at every call. In Juneau, for instance, you can get an outdoor experience with a relatively inexpensive trip to the nearby Mendenhall Glacier. It’s just 12 miles from the cruise ship docks and reachable by bus or taxi. The bus will set you back an astounding $45 per person, round-trip, which I find an intolerable gouge (but … it is what it is). If you have a few people, you’re probably better off with a taxi, which runs around $35 each way. For two or three people traveling together, it’s not all that pricey a trip.

Either way you do it, you’ll find some nice hiking trails around Mendenhall Glacier and a visitor center. There’s a creek there, too, where I’ve sometimes seen salmon running. One time, I even saw a bear. Speaking of which: A bear is something you think you want to see in Alaska until you actually see one. Then you’re just hoping you don’t get eaten.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

I should also be clear that the towns themselves aren’t devoid of attractions. While I highly encourage Alaska-bound cruisers to get out into the wilderness, there are plenty of worthwhile things to do in each of the main port towns.

In Juneau, food tours have become popular; think King crab bisque and Alaska salmon. The Alaska State Museum is beautiful and worth a visit. Skagway is like a Gold Rush-themed movie set. You should at least walk its main street (Broadway), with its wooden-board sidewalks. If you’re a craft beer fan, like me , you also might want to sample a Spruce Tip Blonde Ale at the Skagway Brewing Company. It’s made with Sitka spruce tips picked locally in the spring.

In Ketchikan, you should save a few minutes to stroll up Creek Street, along Ketchikan Creek, where you might spot salmon running. It’s the ultimate Alaska selfie spot.

Related: The best cruises to Alaska from Seattle  

How to book the best Alaska shore excursions

The simplest way to book an Alaska shore excursion is through your cruise line. You check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it’s all arranged. They send a ticket to your room, and when you walk off the ship, a tour guide will be waiting for you.

Another way to go is to book directly with a tour operator in one of the ports. Many of the tour operators you’ll find in Alaskan ports are the same tour operators that operate the ship-sponsored excursions. Often, the tours that the local tour operators will sell you are the same tours that the cruise lines are selling you, at the same price . Shopping around isn’t necessarily going to get you anywhere.

Indeed, in some cases, the cruise lines own the tour operators in Alaska ports, or at least a piece of them. For instance, the parent company of Princess Cruises and Holland America  is a part-owner of Skagway’s big attraction, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

That said, you can sometimes get discounts by calling a tour operator directly. I’ve had some luck with that over the years. It’s hit or miss.

Related: 8 tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

The 6 best Alaska shore excursions

Below, I’ve listed six of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions. These all are tours that you’ll find in the tour lineups at every major cruise line that operates in Alaska. That said, different lines sometimes have different names for these tours — and sometimes different pricing.

For the listings below, I’ve used the tour names and pricing listed in the current tour sheets at Princess, which along with sister line Holland America, is the biggest cruise operator in Alaska.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line  

Dog-sledding and glacier adventure by helicopter

Cost: $669.95 per person

Port where available: Juneau

For those with a hefty bankroll, this might be the ultimate Alaska shore excursion. Combining helicopter flightseeing over the seemingly endless Juneau Icefield with a landing on a glacier for dog sledding, it hits two of Alaska’s most iconic experiences.

It’s also insanely expensive, as I know from firsthand experience. I once took my entire family of five on this excursion, dropping more than $2,000 in the process. That’s a huge chunk of change for an outing that lasts three hours.

But I’ll tell you this: I don’t regret doing it. Not one bit. For starters, the views of the Juneau Icefield as you fly to and from the dog-sledding camp are incredible (assuming the weather cooperates). But the real joy was seeing my three young girls interacting with the teams of Alaskan huskies that live at the camp.

Once you arrive at the camp, you’ll meet the dogs and their mushers, see where they live, get a quick tutorial in mushing, and then head out for a spin around the camp on a dog-pulled sled.

Related: These are the best times to visit Alaska

Whale watching and wildlife quest

Cost: $189.95

If it’s Alaska’s famous humpback whales that you want to see, you’ll want to book a whale-watching tour. The waters around Juneau are particularly known for humpback whales — so much so that the operator of this excursion offers a whale-sighting guarantee.

Setting off from the Juneau harbor in a whale-watching boat, you’ll cruise to nearby areas to see not just humpback whales but harbor seals and sea lions, too. You might even spot a killer whale or porpoise.

The boat used for this excursion has both inside and outdoor viewing areas. The trips last about four hours, including transfer time from your cruise ship to the whale-watching boat.

Related: The ultimate list of Alaska cruise tips  

Note that if you have a big enough group, it sometimes pays to arrange a private boat out of Juneau to take you to see humpback whales. Many lines offer a private boat charter for whale watching as a tour option, or you can arrange one through a local company.

Klondike rock climbing and rappelling

Cost: $119.95

Port where available: Skagway

If you’re like me, you may be a little terrified at the idea of climbing the sheer face of a rock cliff. But don’t let that scare you away from this 3 1/4-hour tour. It’s a hoot.

Experienced climbing guides will meet you at your ship and drive you up the Klondike Highway to an area of granite cliffs that’s the perfect playground for beginner and more seasoned climbers alike. Upon arrival, the guides provide you with all the gear you need — climbing shoes, helmets and harnesses — for a safe scramble up a 70-foot-high wall. They’ll also offer plenty of instruction (and encouragement) plus a snack of trail mix and hot chocolate.

If it all sounds a bit daunting, know that you don’t need any experience at climbing to do it; I sure didn’t have any when I tried it, nor did my young daughters, who absolutely loved it. There are multiple routes up the cliffs, some perfect for beginners. After making it to the top, you’ll rappel back down — an entirely different kind of thrill.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway ride

Cost: $149.95

Call it the iconic attraction of Skagway, Alaska. A ride into the mountains on this narrow-gauge railroad is the tour everybody takes when visiting the Gold Rush town-turned-tourist hub. And for good reason. It offers an easy way to get deep into the Great Alaskan Outdoors.

Truth be told, I’m a fan of more active excursions. But for someone who isn’t going to hike, bike, horseback ride or raft their way through the wilderness around Skagway (there are tours for all of those things, too), a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Railway is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of the area’s classic Alaskan scenery.

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise  

From the comfort of a vintage rail car, you’ll get stunning views of mountains, gorges, glacial rivers and waterfalls as you climb nearly 3,000 feet to the summit of White Pass — the headwaters to the mighty Yukon River. Designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the 20-mile route is a marvel in its own right, with improbably steep grades at times and segments that pass over soaring wooden trestles and around tight, cliff-hanging curves.

Heli-hike and rail adventure

Cost: $399.95

This is another tour with a sky-high cost. But, in my opinion, it’s well worth the money. Indeed, it’s one of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions.

The five-hour, Skagway-based outing begins with a transfer from your ship to a nearby helicopter pad, where you’ll find a helicopter waiting to whisk you high into the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain Range.

On a quick flight to your destination — a mountain trail in the Tongass National Forest — you’ll get spectacular views of the mountains and Goat Lake. You’ll land at Glacier Station, a remote mountain helicopter pad alongside the White Pass & Yukon Railway tracks. From there, you’ll set off on a two- to six-mile guided wilderness hike on a trail along the Skagway River. The highlight of the hike: a magnificent view of Laughton Glacier.

Returning to Glacier Station, you’ll end the day with a ride back to Skagway on the White Pass & Yukon Railway, which makes a special stop to pick you up.

Misty Fjords National Monument by seaplane

Cost: $299.95

Port where available: Ketchikan

There’s nothing that says Alaska quite like a trip in a floatplane. And, if you’re going to do a floatplane ride, there’s nowhere better than in Ketchikan. You’ll find a small armada of floatplanes waiting to take you to nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.

Misty Fjords is one of those quintessential Alaska destinations that’s so beautiful you just want to cry. That is, if it’s not too “misty” to see it. It got its name for a reason. The area is often shrouded in clouds and drizzly rain. Ketchikan is known as one of the rainiest places in North America, with over 13 feet of rain each year. So, yeah, bring a rain jacket.

But, also get ready for lovely views of glacier-carved fjords, cliffs and rock walls jutting thousands of feet out of the ocean. The whole thing is covered with temperate rainforests and features huge waterfalls (thanks to all that rain). It’s definitely a sight to see.

Note that there often are two versions of this tour available: One that is about two hours in length and only includes flightseeing and a slightly longer version that includes a water landing within Misty Fjord National Monument.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Coast Guard suspends search for 3 people still missing after boat capsizes near Seward

Low clouds over the snowcapped mountains near the glaciers of Aialik Bay in Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska. (iStock/Getty)

The U.S. Coast Guard on Thursday afternoon suspended a search for three people who remain missing after their boat capsized early Wednesday morning 35 miles southwest of Seward, leaving at least one dead.

Aboard the 22-foot Hewescraft aluminum boat were family members 60-year-old Seward resident Joshua Green, 29-year-old Anchorage resident Caleb Green, and 29-year-old Soldotna resident Hayden Green, along with a woman who has not yet been identified, according to an Alaska State Troopers spokesman.

The group left Seward on Tuesday but “could not return to Seward due to poor sea conditions and weather,” troopers said Thursday.

The Coast Guard received a mayday call from the boat at 5:30 a.m. Wednesday reporting the vessel was taking on water, troopers said. Hayden Green was found dead in the water, they said. The other three had not been located as of Thursday afternoon.

Troopers said they had activated the nonprofit Alaska Dive Search, Rescue, and Recovery Team to attempt to find the missing people.

Conditions in the area Wednesday morning were described as 12-foot seas and 20 mph winds with gusts to 30.

The crew of the Skala, a high-speed catamaran carrying 80 passengers to Aialik Glacier, was involved in the response, according to Tom Tougas, owner of Major Marine Tours.

He described the conditions Wednesday morning as rough.

“It would have been what I would call a very rough day for a small boat,” Tougas said Thursday.

The search covered 95 square miles over nine hours, according to the update.

Coast Guard officials said after receiving the call for help Wednesday morning, they issued an urgent marine information broadcast, launched an MH-60 helicopter crew from Air Station Kodiak and redirected an HC-130 Hercules crew from a nearby mission. Another HC-130 crew and a Coast Guard cutter were also involved in the search, officials said.

The helicopter arrived at the scene of the capsized boat just before 10 a.m. Wednesday, according to the Coast Guard.

Not long before, the Skala left Seward for the 90-minute trip to Aialik Bay with six crew members on the first run of the day, Tougas said. The captain told him he started hearing Coast Guard alerts asking mariners to look out for a distressed vessel as soon as the boat left the harbor.

The crew began spotting debris in the area of Coleman Bay, about halfway up Aialik Bay, Tougas said. He said the crew was in communication with the Coast Guard helicopter crew.

“Our captain saw a life jacket floating in the water,” he said, adding that the Coast Guard asked them to retrieve it.

Then the crew spotted the body of a man floating in the water, Tougas said. The Coast Guard asked them to retrieve it, he said.

The crew did so as discreetly as possible, using a lift at the stern of the vessel and keeping passengers at a distance, Tougas said.

Coast Guard officials said the Skala transported the body to Seward. Alaska State Troopers spokesman Austin McDaniel said the body was transferred into trooper custody in Seward.

The Coast Guard said crews searched through the night into Thursday for the missing boaters.

“We offer our deepest condolences to the loved ones impacted by this tragedy,” Commander Chris Svencer, search mission coordinator, said in a statement. “Despite a quick response and extensive search efforts we have decided to suspend the active search. This decision is never easy and is only made after careful deliberation.”

Zaz Hollander

Zaz Hollander is a veteran journalist based in the Mat-Su and is currently an ADN local news editor and reporter. She covers breaking news, the Mat-Su region, aviation and general assignments. Contact her at [email protected].