Helicopter Tours in Fairbanks

Explore the northern wonders with our helicopter tours in fairbanks.

Alaska Heli Rides presents a curated selection of helicopter tours in Fairbanks, providing comprehensive information on a variety of aerial adventures. Our platform offers insights into the unique helicopter tours available in this northern city, each offering a distinct perspective of Fairbanks’ scenic landscapes and the surrounding wilderness. From flights over the vast boreal forests to the mesmerizing views of the Arctic tundra, our selection of tours is designed to offer an unparalleled experience.

Why Experience Fairbanks by Helicopter?

Fairbanks provides a unique backdrop for helicopter tours, especially with its proximity to the Arctic Circle and the chance to witness the Northern Lights. A helicopter tour here offers a rare opportunity to see the untouched beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, including the Chena River and nearby mountain ranges.

Highlighted Helicopter Tours in Fairbanks

Arctic circle adventure.

  • Highlights: Flight over the Arctic Circle, views of the Yukon River, potential Northern Lights sighting
  • Duration: Varies depending on season

Chena River and Hot Springs Flight

  • Highlights: Aerial views of the Chena River, Chena Hot Springs Resort, and surrounding forest
  • Duration: 1 hour

Denali National Park Expedition

  • Highlights: Scenic views of Denali National Park, remote wilderness areas, wildlife sightings
  • Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Tailor Your Adventure

Several helicopter tour operators in Fairbanks offer the ability to customize your tour. Choose specific sights, extend your flight duration, or include special experiences like a glacier landing or a wilderness walk.

Explore and Connect

Peruse our curated selection of helicopter tours in Fairbanks and connect directly with tour operators to book your extraordinary flight over Alaska’s unique northern landscapes.

Discover the breathtaking beauty and remote wilderness of Fairbanks from the skies with our comprehensive guide to helicopter tours.

Alaska Land Exploration - Fairbanks Helicopter Charter Service

Alaska Land Exploration

Whenever. wherever. whatever it takes..

Alaska Land Exploration is a 133/135 certified helicopter charter company established in 2008. We are based in Fairbanks, Alaska.

helicopter tour fairbanks

See Alaska in a way few will see it in their lifetimes!

Experience the Exhilaration

2024 summer early bird 15% off sale – promo code 24ebd , click here for more details.

helicopter tour fairbanks

Why Helicopters?

That’s easy - they’re more fun! They can hover in front of massive glacier walls, over majestic waterfalls, and land on mountain tops with expansive views of wild Alaska!

Plus they’re more comfortable than airplanes and offer amazing unobstructed views.​

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The Best Way to See Alaska!

helicopter tour fairbanks

Glacier Landing Tours

Glacier Dogsled Tours

Flightseeing Tours

Small Group Tours

Private Tours

Weddings/Anniversaries

Film & Media

Experience the grandeur of Alaska with exceptional:

helicopter tour fairbanks

Our helicopter rides in Alaska have a perfect safety record, consistent  5-star ratings , and guests that keep on sending us their friends and family. Our customer team behind the scenes are all Alaskan travel veterans, used to working with guests and tour companies from all over the world. They can help you find and book the perfect trip, set up transfers, and design that customized once-in-a-lifetime adventure you are planning for your loved ones.

Fly with Alaska Helicopter Tours and see why we offer the best way to experience Alaska. We’ve been in the aviation industry since 1985 and enjoy sharing Alaska’s most remarkable destinations.

helicopter tour fairbanks

Alaska Helicopter Tours offers helicopter flightseeing, glacier dogsled tours, heli hiking, ice climbing, glacier paddleboarding, glacier hiking, and custom adventures from the Knik Glacier valley in the Chugach Mountains (just north-east of Anchorage). Our pilots and guides are amazing and thoroughly enjoy showing you some of the most beautiful spots in Alaska.

CONVENIENCE

​ Multiple Departure Locations

Our helicopter rides in Alaska have the number 1 safety record, consistent  5-star ratings , and guests that keep on sending us their friends and family. Our customer team behind the scenes are all Alaskan travel veterans, used to working with guests and tour companies from all over the world. They can help you find and book the perfect trip, set up transfers, and design that customized once-in-a-lifetime adventure you are planning for your loved ones.

Our helicopter rides in Alaska have the number 1 safety record, consistent  5-star ratings , and guests that keep on sending us their friends and family. Our customer team behind the scenes are all Alaskan travel veterans, used to working with guests and tour companies from all over the world. They can help you find and book the perfect trip, set up transfers, and design that customized once-in-a-lifetime adventure you are planning for your loved ones.

Alaska Helicopter Tours offers helicopter flightseeing, glacier dogsled tours, heli hiking, ice climbing, glacier paddleboarding, glacier hiking, and custom adventures from the Knik Glacier valley in the Chugach Mountains (just north-east of Anchorage) as well as Bear Viewing, Glacier experiences and Volcano Tours from Homer. Our pilots and guides are amazing and thoroughly enjoy showing you some of the most beautiful spots in Alaska.

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BOOK A TOUR TODAY

YEAR ROUND TOURS

60-Min Knik Landing Tour

helicopter tour fairbanks

SUMMER ONLY

Heli Dogsled & Glacier Tour

helicopter tour fairbanks

Grand Knik Tour

helicopter tour fairbanks

Glacier Paddle Boarding

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Heli Hiking

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Summer Ice Climbing

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HELI & E-MOUNTAIN BIKING

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Winter Heli Ice Climbing

helicopter tour fairbanks

Winter Glacier Exploration

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Heli - Packrafting

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Lake Clark VIP Bear Viewing

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Heli - Rock Climbing

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Heli - Mountain Running

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Surprise Proposal

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Anchorage City Tour

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Anchorage Mountains & Ocean

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Heli Snowshoe Adventure

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Overnight Packages

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Glacier Swim and Hike

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Create a Private, Custom Heli Tour

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View Our Glacier Helicopter Tours 

Simply the best way to see Alaska!  Join us on an exciting helicopter tour and experience Alaska from the air.

We're dedicated to making your Alaska Helicopter Tour an enjoyable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Take a look at past guest reviews!

helicopter tour fairbanks

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

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Wonderful Experience

Booked this as a surprise for my husband and to say he was thrilled is an understatement. The staff that checked us in were very friendly and organized. Went over safety and weighed in before boarding. Our pilot, Josh was wonderful. Josh was informative and helpful. This is an amazing experience. The glacier is beautiful and we brought a bottle to drink the water. Cool that you can hear the glacier crack. So glad we did this!

best glacier exploration tour!

My whole camera roll is of our heli tour! We did a glacier exploration tour (2hours) where we flew and landed next to the glacier and hiked along the walls. It was absolutely incredible. Michael and Kate were the best pilot/guide we could ask for! We got so lucky with sun & beautiful weather even in the winter! I cannot wait to come back in the summer to experience more of their tours. The helicopter flight and views absolutely do not compete with any other experience. It was worth every penny!!! Would do it again in a heartbeat!

Took my elderly mum on the heli-dog and extra glacier landing trip! Amazing! They took very good care of her and everyone was so very patient and kind. Don’t even hesitate to include the extra glacier landing!! It is straight out awesome and so very special! It is definitely worth the extra cost !!!

Amazing Experience

This was hands down the best experience we’ve had in Alaska. We hit the glacier tour with landing. Our pilot was knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He explained what we were seeing - from why the ice is blue to moulins and more! Walking on the Knik Glacier was surreal. Highly recommend.

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Not sure where to start?

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

(907) 272-7777

(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!

Alaska Glacier Lodge

29979 E Knik River Rd

Palmer, AK 99645

helicopter tour fairbanks

Tel:  907-272-7777

Email: [email protected]

HOME TOURS DOGSLEDDING

© 2023 by AHT    Created by Viable Solutions Alaska

helicopter tour fairbanks

© 2023 by AHT. Created by Viable Solutions Alaska

Tel. 123-456-7890 Palmer , Alaska

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Arctic Circle Flight Adventure in Summer

Soar above alaska's spectacular and endless arctic landscape..

helicopter tour fairbanks

Photo Journey:

Home » City-Based Day Tours » Fairbanks » Arctic Circle Flight Adventure in Summer

Day Tour Details

What's included:.

  • Roundtrip flight to Arctic Circle
  • All taxes and fees

What's Not Included:

Meals and transfers to and from your hotel.

Dates & Rates

Contact us to book this tour..

Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.

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I just wanted to thank you so much for helping put together our trip to Alaska. It is an amazing place and we look forward to going back. We have fallen in LOVE! This trip is by far one of our favorites! Thanks again! Yay Alaska! You’re the Best!

Janette | Utah

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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

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Tour2Sky

Helciopter Tors & Rides in Fairbanks

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Popular Helicopter tours

Extended Bear Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight

High demand

Bear Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight

Best seller

Anchorage: Heli Snowshoe Adventure

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Fairbanks by Air

Find Your perfect trip

When will you come?

What do you want to see?

Tour Summary

  • Depart from the uniquely-Alaskan East Ramp - Fairbanks Airport... the Interior hub for air-taxis, float planes, village commuters, and myriad private aircraft. 
  • Climb aboard a twin-engine Piper Chieftain, the aviation workhorse for Interior and Arctic Alaska. Each seat has it's own window and allows for aerial perspectives. Ascend over the Golden Heart City of Fairbanks situated in the expansive Tanana Valley. 
  • Witness remnants of gold mining that continues nearly 100 years after the yellow metal brought newcomers rushing north.
  • View the remarkable Trans Alaska Pipeline, symbolizing the immense changes brought to Alaska by the discovery of oil.

Tour Dates and Rates

January 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023

9:00 AM Departure

Days: Daily

Tour departs 9:00 am; Returns approximately 9:45 am.  (Times will vary pending availability at the time of your reservation)

Year-Round Tour Schedule:  Available daily for a minimum of 4 people.

For information on how to make a reservation, click on the link to our planning  page. 

helicopter tour fairbanks

Arctic Circle Air Adventure

A One Day Guided Round Trip Journey By Air And Land Across The Arctic Circle

  • ✓ Arctic Circle
  • Χ Arctic Ocean
  • Χ Polar Bear
  • Χ Undiscovered Arctic
  • Χ Yukon River

helicopter tour fairbanks

Arctic Circle Aurora Fly Drive Adventure - Northbound

A Guided Round Trip Winter Journey By Air and Land Across The Arctic Circle

  • ✓ Yukon River

THE 10 BEST Alaska Helicopter Tours & Rides

Helicopter tours in alaska.

  • Ports of Call Tours
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  • Cultural Tours
  • Helicopter Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

helicopter tour fairbanks

1. Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk

helicopter tour fairbanks

2. Juneau Shore Excursions: Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience

helicopter tour fairbanks

3. Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, COMBO

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4. Alaska Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing - 60 mins - ANCHORAGE AREA

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5. Grand Knik Helicopter Tour - 2 hours 3 landings - ANCHORAGE AREA

helicopter tour fairbanks

6. Juneau Shore Excursions: Helicopter Dogsledding Experience and Additional Glacier Landing

helicopter tour fairbanks

7. Summer Glacier Dogsledding Tour from Girdwood

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8. Helicopter and Glacier Dog Sledding Tour from Seward

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9. Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour - ANCHORAGE AREA

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10. Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour + Lower Glacier Landing - ANCHORAGE AREA

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11. Glacier and Mountain Viewing Tour

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12. Glacier Landing Tour from Girdwood

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13. Helicopter and Glacier Paddle Boarding -PRIVATE

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14. Helicopter Glacier Swim & Hike

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15. Ketchikan Top of the World Helicopter Tour

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16. VIP Heli Bear Viewing - Lake Clark National Park

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17. Extended Bear Glacier Scenic Flight

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18. 30 Minute Flightseeing Tour from Girdwood

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19. Grand View Tour

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20. Grand Homer Glaciers & Waterfalls

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21. Prince William Sound Tour with Glacier Landing from Girdwood

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22. Bear Glacier Scenic Flight

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23. Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, Mahoney Falls

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24. Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, Mountain Lakes

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25. Heli Glacier Crevasse Ice Climbing- Summer

What travelers are saying.

CrabSnak

Flightseeing over Yanert Glacier near Denali Park.

Alaska Helicopter Tours

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

Amazing views on the way to Punch Bowl Glacier.

  • Things to Do

Quick Links

  • Denali Park Glacier Landing
  • Denali Park Heli-Hiking
  • Girdwood Heli Sled Dog Tour
  • Grand Knik Heli Tour

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 >

helicopter tour fairbanks

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helicopter tour fairbanks

Take to the skies and get a different perspective of Fairbanks and Interior Alaska. Traverse across the Arctic Circle or land on a glacier with a local company that can get you there safely.

101 Dunkel Street, Suite 111 Fairbanks, AK 99701-4806 Telephone: (907) 456-5774 Visitor Guide Request: 1-800-327-5774 Email:  [email protected] About Explore Fairbanks

helicopter tour fairbanks

A 67 Million Acre Open Air Office

Close up of a Refuge Federal Wildlife Officer in a Top Cub bush plane as he prepares for take off from a dirt airstrip with mountains covering the background just out of focus.

How do you pack for a patrol of an area the size of Mississippi?  What do you pack? A lunch? What about a week's worth of food, a tent, sleeping bag, and your flight helmet? Those are exactly what Senior Federal Wildlife Officer (SFWO) Cody Smith packs at a minimum for a patrol of his over 67-million-acre assignment area across the entire “North Zone” of Alaska. This zone stretches from the Arctic Ocean to the mouth of the Kuskokwim River. 

A view from the bow of a boat towards the stern of a Federal Wildlife Officer at the helm with the Yukon River in the background.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employs approximately 200 Federal Wildlife Officers (FWO) around the country. Federal Wildlife Officers are law enforcement professionals charged with protecting natural resources and public safety across the National Wildlife Refuge System. The National Wildlife Refuge System is a network of public lands and waters managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. There are more than 560 refuges spanning the country. A day in the life of a Federal Wildlife Officer is going to look very different depending on their duty location.  For FWO’s in Alaska, the sheer size of their patrol areas presents logistical obstacles no other officers have anywhere else in the country.  The 16 National Wildlife Refuges in Alaska cover over 76 million acres. 

A refuge Law enforcement officer/pilot looks out the window of a Top Cub bush plane surveying the braided river below which is just out of focus.

“The view from the office is pretty good.” SFWO Smith as he flies above Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. 

Senior Federal Wildlife Officer Cody Smith has served with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over seven years. Following the start of his federal service with the Forest Service, Smith moved through various positions gaining experience with operating heavy equipment, biology aid, wildland firefighter, interpretive ranger, and trail crewmember; eventually landing a position as a law enforcement officer at the Rocky Mountain National Park. Since moving over to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Smith’s stations have included the Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge in northern Louisiana and Alaska. Both a Pilot and outdoorsman, Smith grew up in the Ozarks and enjoys the challenges of working in the wilderness. “This was like Disneyland!” he exclaims about his move to Alaska. His duties as a Pilot also take him across Alaska supporting most of the 16 National Wildlife Refuges across the state. He is currently assigned to Arctic National Wildlife Refuge , Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge , and Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge .

Close Up of Federal Wildlife Officer/Pilot taxis at an airport with the entry window/door open.

Many USFWS staff, such as biologist and park rangers, plan their “field work” to help support the management of fish, wildlife, and their ecosystems on refuges. They may have a variety of trips each year, staying out in remote areas for extended periods of time with a group of biologists and a field camp. For Refuge Law Enforcement FWOs, this is a regular occurrence all year long. Rain, shine, or snow, FWOs are out patrolling their assigned refuge, and often solo. Planning for these trips must be flexible and are determined by the needs of the refuge and the intent of a patrol.

FWO Cody Smith with a fuel hose putting fuel into the wing tanks of a Top Cub bush plane with a remote fuel station in the background.

What are your big challenges? Big picture stuff?  

“A big one is the shortage of personnel. Time is spent split helping other refuges officers along with my own refuges. – The logistics of doing anything. It’s not like being an FWO anywhere else in the country. I can’t just hop in my rig and go patrol the refuge for the day, come home and eat dinner with the family, and the next day go gas up at a gas station and go drive. Usually, it’s days of planning before any of these patrols and figuring out fuel stops and weather. And then you go do it, and you get back and it is usually a day or two of rehabbing gear and drying equipment out and getting maintenance done on the plane and planning the next one to go out for another week.”

Three people stand under the wing of a Top Cub bush plane as they look at two tablets showing flight maps as they coordinate during a dall sheep survey.

“Aviate, navigate, and communicate." An axiom SFWO Cody Smith lives by in the air.

For USFWS staff across Alaska, aviation is essential. Whether by fixed-wing, or helicopter, aviation allows Service staff to reach their most remote workplaces.  This is especially true for law enforcement officers. Department of Interior (DOI) runs a small fleet of aircraft and skilled pilots based in Anchorage, Alaska that help support USFWS in getting staff to areas off the road system. For local Refuge Law Enforcement, there is an increased efficiency in having a pilot of their own. SFWO Smith is one of the few selected, and the only law enforcement officer, successful in the DOI Developmental Pilot Program. This program helps take already privately licensed pilots and helps them get the additional certifications to be “carded” to fly for the department.  The program helps eager candidates who would make great DOI pilots, obtain certifications that otherwise may be extremely difficult to obtain. 

Federal Wildlife Officer Cody Smith stands inside a hangar in front of a Top Cub bush plane with his patrol truck parked in front of the open hangar door.

Alaska is the only region where U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employs FWO/Pilots. As one of two Refuge Law Enforcement Officer/Pilots in Alaska, Smith stays busy assisting other FWOs in getting to their assigned patrol areas. This common occurrence takes Smith to nearly every other refuge in the state.  It is a team effort, as officers are regularly pulled from their assigned refuges to assist other in the region for events such as highly anticipated hunts with large numbers of participants.

Three Federal Wildlife Officers sitting on snow wearing snow machine personal protective gear.

For those who work in remote areas of Alaska, life is different. There are different end goals, different roles, and different organizations, but everyone is there to support one another. Smith regularly encounters a small community of aviators and outdoor guides. Relationships are friendly and the hospitality of guides in their base camps is unmatched. SFWO Smith carries himself in a professional manner and it is clear he works to serve the public and protect refuge lands. There is a silent understanding that in a time of need, everyone can count on one another for help. Encounters on the refuge sometimes look more like old friends catching up, but there is a clear line of professionalism that can be seen during the encounters. Good relationships also extend to the other law enforcement officers that patrol the areas adjacent to refuges such as Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Law enforcement officers patrolling northern Alaska can be counted on one hand and work for agencies such as the National Park Service and the Alaska State Troopers. 

Three people stand on a flat snow covered landscape with a bush plane and two snow machines.

Community, patience, preparedness, and resources are tools SFWO Cody Smith relies on daily to perform his duties in National Wildlife Refuge System. As you prepare for a day trip or weeklong adventure, you can rest assure that Refuge Law Enforcement Officers are committed to protecting wildlife and habitat and making refuges safe places for staff and visitors. 

A Federal Wildlife Officer stands with three hunters as they get their licenses out with caribou antlers at the bottom of the image.

In Alaska we are shared stewards of world renowned natural resources and our nation’s last true wild places. Our hope is that each generation has the opportunity to live with, live from, discover and enjoy the wildness of this awe-inspiring land and the people who love and depend on it.

Recreational Activities

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Mary Harrison

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    Whether by fixed-wing, or helicopter, aviation allows Service staff to reach their most remote workplaces. This is especially true for law enforcement officers. Department of Interior (DOI) runs a small fleet of aircraft and skilled pilots based in Anchorage, Alaska that help support USFWS in getting staff to areas off the road system.