Description
Like most of Alaska, the Juneau Icefield is largely inaccessible without taking to the skies. Therefore, the Helicopter Glacier Walkabout is a perfect choice to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of this breathtaking land. Soar over glaciers and snow-capped peaks for incredible views that you won’t soon forget! Then, adventure awaits you on ancient ice that transforms the terrain daily for a trek that satisfies those looking for fun off the beaten path. This non-strenuous, hour-long interpretive hike led by our team of professional guides provides the opportunity to learn about the history and geology of the area as you trek across the icy terrain. Finally, check walking on an Alaskan glacier off of your bucket list with this once-in-a-lifetime experience that brings excitement and joy to every traveler!
Round-trip transportation from close to the cruise ship docks is included in this tour. Upon arrival at the helicopter base, gear-fitting and instruction on proper use of the equipment are provided. In preparation, the highly experienced guides will explain the different glacial features and safety requirements. This way you’ll be sure you are ready to explore many remote areas on the glacier. After this, you’ll finally fly over the stunning Juneau Icefield, getting more excited as you anxiously await your first steps on the glacier. Your pilot will land on either Mendenhall, Taku, Norris, Herbert, Gilkey, Battle or Thiel, depending on various weather and glacier conditions. It will feel as if you’re in another world, and certainly far away from the crowds, as you explore the frozen rivers of ice, moulins, and deep crevasses.
No experience is required on this helicopter glacier walk! However, guests must be comfortable walking on moderately flat, sometimes uneven and rolling terrain. This Helicopter Glacier Walkabout tour is perfect for those looking for an in-depth glacier experience, with the ease of accessing it by helicopter!
Looking for a glacier experience paired with dogsledding? Check out the Helicopter & Dogsled Glacier Excursion!
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear?
Because the temperature at the glacier is quite cold, it is essential to dress warmly and in layers to ensure your safety and comfort. We recommend long pants, a hat, mid-height athletic socks, and sunglasses! Additionally, we will provide you with rain and windproof jackets and pants, hard-shell mountaineering boots, crampons, gloves, a harness, a trekking pole, and a pack containing water and a granola bar. Remember to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views!
Will the pilot get out with us?
Your pilot will provide guided commentary as you fly over the scenic landscape. You’ll be met by your expert guide when you land on the Glacier, and they will be with you throughout the time you explore the glacier.
What if I need extra help on the tour?
You must be able to get in and out of the helicopter and walk for an hour over uneven terrain to participate in this tour. If you require additional support, please do not hesitate to contact us before your tour so that we can discuss your specific needs.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
How many passengers can fit in a single helicopter?
Seating is arranged in the helicopter to comply with the helicopter’s weight and balance requirements. There is a maximum of 6 passengers per helicopter. There are two front seats and four rear seats; FAA safety guidelines require assigning seating positions based on the weight and balance of all passengers for each helicopter.
What happens if the weather is too bad to fly?
Can children come on the tour?
Why don't I see any tours available for my travel dates?
If you’ve entered your travel date and group size and do not see any tours available, the tours are most likely sold out, not operating that day, or the schedule has not yet been released for booking. If the specific helicopter tour you wanted is missing from the results, that usually means it is not available for your selected date, time, or group size.
Helicopter tours are among the most popular Alaska shore excursions and can sell out months in advance, especially during peak cruise season. If you’re visiting by cruise ship, many tours also require a 45–60 minute buffer to ensure you make it to and from your ship on time, so departures too close to your arrival or all-aboard time won’t appear. For the best chance of securing your preferred tour, date, and departure time, we recommend booking as soon as your travel itinerary is confirmed.
Our live availability calendar is the most accurate and up-to-date source for open departures. If no helicopter options appear after you enter your details, we recommend checking other available tour types for your port or adjusting your group size if your party can split across separate departures or activities.
For future-season travel, schedules are released gradually, most often in the fall as cruise schedules are finalized. If you’re searching for next season and do not see availability yet, that usually means those departures have not been released, not that they are already sold out. We recommend checking back later as more schedules become available.
Know Before You Book
Quick Facts
Itinerary • 3h 25min • 6 activities
Glacier walk about
