Imagine standing on a glacier’s edge, the crisp air filling your lungs. The sun shines off the ice. This moment combines excitement and peace on a helicopter tour in Alaska. Picture yourself flying over Alaska’s stunning landscapes. These rides give you a top view of nature’s beauty. From glaciers to mountains, it’s an unmatched adventure. You might even land on a glacier, making unforgettable memories.
Alaska Helicopter Tours has a perfect safety record and 30 years in the field. Its 5-star ratings show the thrill and trust in their tours. Looking for flightseeing or active adventures like dogsledding or hiking? They have it all. Explore the wilderness with a 15% off early bird discount for summer 2024 tours.
Key Takeaways
- Experience breathtaking views of Alaska’s glaciers and landscapes.
- Alaska Helicopter Tours boasts a perfect safety record.
- Multiple tour options available, including glacier hikes and dogsled tours.
- Consistently receives 5-star ratings from customers.
- Flexibility in tour sizes: small groups and private options available.
- Take advantage of early bird discounts for summer tours.
- Thousands of satisfied customers have shared their positive experiences.
Why Choose a Helicopter Tour in Alaska?
Helicopter tours in Alaska offer an unmatched way to see its beauty from above. They let you check out hard-to-reach spots easily. These flights take you close to the state’s beautiful mountains and glaciers. Compared to ground tours, they offer a unique and exciting view.
The Thrill of Flightseeing
The excitement of flying is truly special. From high up, you get amazing views that are hard to forget. You can choose different flights, like a quick 25-minute trip from Sheep Mountain Air. Or dive deep into the scenery with the Ultimate Helicopter Adventure. These flights let you see incredible ice caves and glacier walls up close, without tough hikes.
Unmatched Views of Glaciers and Landscapes
Helicopter glacier tours in Alaska showcase stunning views you can’t get anywhere else. You’ll see breathtaking landscapes and glaciers. Tours by Matanuska Glacier Helicopters, for instance, offer various lengths and even include guided glacier walks. This direct contact with nature makes your experience even more thrilling and personal.
Experience the Best Alaska Helicopter Tours
Exploring Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes from the sky makes for an unforgettable journey. Scenic helicopter tours in Alaska offer numerous top-rated adventures. Whether it’s a short flight or a long exploration, you get to see Alaska’s beauty from above.
Top-rated Tours Offering Unique Experiences
Outbound Heli Adventures stands out with its variety of tours. They are perfect for those seeking thrills and those loving nature. From the cruise ship terminal, enjoy a 2.5-hour trip with a meet-up in front of Goldbelt Mt. Robert’s Tramway. With activities like glacier landings, you’ll step on ancient ice. Customers rave about their experiences, recommending Outbound Heli Adventures for amazing wilderness adventures.
Duration and Itinerary Options
Helicopter tours in Alaska come with different durations. You can pick from a quick 60-minute tour to several hours long trips. Choose from exploring natural wonders from above or take guided glacier walks for deeper exploration. The tours are ADA accessible, allowing those with limited mobility to enjoy the experience.
| Tour Type | Duration | Max Passengers | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scenic Helicopter Tour | 2.5 hours | 6 | Starting at $200 |
| Glacier Landing Tour | 3 hours | 6 | Starting at $250 |
| Heli Hiking Adventure | 4 hours | 6 | Starting at $300 |
Aerial tours in Alaska offer views that are unmatched. They showcase glaciers and dramatic mountains. Adding activities like ice climbing or paddle boarding makes the journey unforgettable. Remember, it’s cooler on the glacier by about 15-20°F, so dress warmly.
For more info on these amazing adventures, visit this guide. Experience Alaska from the skies! Your helicopter adventure is waiting, with breathtaking sights and exciting activities.
What to Expect on Your Alaska Helicopter Adventure
Your Alaska helicopter adventure is a journey of stunning views and exciting moments. You’ll get ready with a full prep talk and then fly over beautiful landscapes. It’s an unforgettable experience.
Pre-Flight Safety Briefing
Before you fly, you’ll get a detailed safety briefing. Tour guides will teach you about the safety gear and rules. You’ll also sign a waiver to show you understand the risks.
This step is crucial for a safe and enjoyable flight. It makes sure you’re ready and confident for your scenic adventure. Safety is our top priority on these tours.
The Excitement of the Helicopter Ride
The thrill starts as the helicopter takes off. You’ll soon see Alaska’s vast wilderness from above. Get ready for breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and valleys.
This ride offers a special look at nature’s wonders. You might even see wildlife like mountain goats and dall sheep. The combination of cool winds and stunning views creates a thrilling adventure.
Helicopter Glacier Tour Alaska: Explore Stunning Glaciers
Your helicopter glacier tour Alaska offers a unique chance to see incredible sights. Imagine flying over large glaciers, seeing their blue crevasses. This tour lets you get close to nature’s beauty and discover icy wonders.
Landing on Glaciers
Landing on glaciers is a highlight of scenic helicopter tours in Alaska. The helicopter lands on the ice safely. Here, you can explore places like Knik Glacier, which is 25 miles long. As you step onto the ice, you’ll see amazing glacial rivers and waterfalls. This makes your experience unforgettable.
Guided Glacier Walks and Exploration
Once on the glacier, expert guides take you on an exciting tour. They’ll teach you about the glacier’s formations and its ecosystem. You’ll see beautiful crevasses and glacial pools. The tour lasts about 90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy Alaska’s nature.
Alaska helicopter tours open a world of adventure and learning. Landing on glaciers and guided walks make this experience unique. You’ll create lasting memories, whether you love vast landscapes or learning about glaciers.
Scenic Helicopter Tours Alaska: A Feast for the Eyes
Scenic helicopter tours in Alaska offer unbelievable views of breathtaking landscapes. You’ll see everything from the Alaska Range’s tall peaks to the stunning blue of glacier ice. Flying over waterfalls and forests, you’ll see Alaska’s wilderness in a new way.
Captivating Views of Alaska’s Natural Wonders
Your helicopter adventure in Alaska will show you amazing sights. You’ll see huge glaciers, untouched lakes, and maybe wildlife from the sky. Each flight gives a fresh view of Alaska’s diverse landscapes. Pilots expertly fly the most scenic paths, so you don’t miss anything special.
Photography Opportunities During the Tour
Photographers will love the shot opportunities during the flight. The high viewpoint is perfect for snapping photos of glaciers and mountains. No matter your photography level, you’ll want to capture these scenes. Keep your camera close as you fly over Alaska’s stunning scenery.
For tour options and schedules, check out flightseeing tours in Alaska. Add things like guided glacier walks to make your trip unforgettable.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Prices | Based on weight categories: Standard (1-259lbs), Standard Plus (260-299lbs), Premium (300lbs+) |
| Tour Duration | Approximately 2.5 hours including transportation and guided glacier walk |
| Maximum Passengers | 6 passengers per helicopter |
| Helicopter Models | Eurocopter Astar 350 and Bell Jet Rangers |
| Reviews | 91% rated the experience as excellent based on 303 reviews |
| Accessibility | ADA-compliant vehicle available with advance notice |
| Operating Season | Mid-May to early September |
Prepare for Your Alaska Helicopter Flightseeing Experience
Getting ready for your Alaska helicopter ride is exciting. It’s essential to know what to pack for comfort. Wear layers to adjust to changing weather. It’s also crucial to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for glacier walks. This is especially important for a helicopter glacier tour in Alaska.
What to Bring and Wear
- Dress in layers: Layering is key for staying comfy as temperatures vary.
- Sturdy footwear: Strong shoes are a must for safe walking on ice or rough ground.
- Sunscreen: UV protection is vital over bright surfaces like glaciers.
- Cameras: Don’t forget to bring one to capture Alaska’s breathtaking views.
Weight Limitations and Passenger Requirements
Be aware of weight limits when you book your Alaska helicopter tour. The Robinson R44 helicopters from Alpine Air Alaska come with a seat weight cap of 290 lbs. If you’re over 250 lbs, there might be an extra fee for comfort. Accurately reporting your weight helps ensure the helicopter is safely loaded. Groups are usually no more than 6 people, making your trip better.
Wildlife Sightings: Enhance Your Tour
Taking an Alaska helicopter adventure adds excitement to your experience. You’ll have the chance to see amazing wildlife. Spotting bears, moose, and eagles can make your tour unforgettable.
Potential Animal Encounters
Alaska’s best helicopter tours increase your chances to see diverse wildlife. Look out for:
- Grizzly Bears around Silver Salmon Creek
- Whales in Kenai Fjords National Park
- Seals and sea lions along the coast
- Puffins and other seabirds
- Moose in the Alaskan wilderness
Best Times for Wildlife Viewing
If you’re looking to see wildlife on Alaska helicopter tours, timing is key. The best time is from June to August. Animals are more active then. You’ll enjoy the beautiful landscapes and maybe spot some of Alaska’s majestic wildlife.
| Month | Wildlife Highlights |
|---|---|
| June | Active Grizzly Bears, migratory birds return |
| July | Whale sightings peak, young moose calf sightings |
| August | Bears fishing in rivers, seals on icebergs |
Choosing the Right Helicopter Tour Package
Finding the best helicopter tour package is key to an amazing Alaska experience. You can pick from group or private tours to fit what you like. Group tours are fun for meeting others. Private tours let you enjoy things at your own speed. You might see glaciers from the sky or fly over beautiful scenes.
Options for Group Tours vs. Private Tours
Choosing between group or private tours depends on what makes you comfortable. Group tours are good for the wallet and socializing. But, private tours can be made just for you. This lets you pick what you want to see and do.
- Group Tours: They’re more affordable and great for making friends
- Private Tours: You can plan the journey, perfect for special trips
Specialized Tours: Dogsledding, Heli Hiking, and More
Unique tours bring you experiences you can’t get anywhere else. Take the Juneau Dog Sledding Tour to ride with dogs on ice. Or, try the Juneau Glacier Dogsled Extended Tour for sledding and walking on a glacier.
The Denali Glacier Landing Expedition is another amazing choice. It combines flying and glacier walks. It’s a must for adventure seekers. Be sure to book these spots early; they fill up fast.
| Tour Type | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Juneau Icefield Excursion | 50 minutes | Significant glacial exploration time |
| Juneau Dog Sledding Tour | Varies | Ride in a dog sled on a glacier |
| Denali Glacier Landing Expedition | 1 hour | Flightseeing and glacier exploration |
| Ketchikan Herring Cove Tour | 30 minutes | Scenic flightseeing for limited time |
The Importance of Safety in Helicopter Tours
When you go on Alaska helicopter rides, being safe is really important. Good tour companies focus a lot on keeping their safety records spotless. They also make sure their pilots are very well trained. Choosing a company that takes safety seriously will make sure you have a great time. You’ll be able to enjoy the amazing views and experiences in Alaska’s skies without worry.
Track Record of Top Tour Providers
Top companies like Coastal really care about safety. They provide tough training for their pilots. Coastal’s pilots, for example, have flown for more than 3000 hours. They also know Wilderness First Aid, Crevasse Rescue, and CPR. Coastal is part of the Tour Operators Program of Safety (TOPS) and the Alaska Air Carriers Association (AACA). This shows they do more than what the FAA asks for. They make sure you feel safe as you explore Alaska from above.
Equipment and Pilot Training Standards
The helicopters used, like the Airbus AS350B2 and Bell 206 JetRanger, are chosen for being safe and comfortable. They check the helicopters often and make sure they’re in perfect shape. Pilots have to go through a lot of training before they can fly. This includes learning on the ground and up in the air. There’s also a Safety Management System to decrease risks. So, you can just enjoy the stunning views on your Alaska helicopter tour.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to take a helicopter tour in Alaska?
The prime time for helicopter tours is during the summer months. This period spans from late May to early September. The weather is nicer and the wildlife is more active during these months.
Do helicopter tours in Alaska guarantee wildlife sightings?
Wildlife sightings, like bears, moose, and eagles, can’t be promised. However, you’re more likely to see them in summer. This is when animals are out more and easier to spot.
What should I wear for a helicopter glacier tour?
It’s smart to dress in layers because the weather can change. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes that cover your toes. These are necessary for walking on glaciers and dealing with icy conditions.
Are there weight limitations for passengers on helicopter tours?
Yes, there are weight limits for each passenger. Everyone must give their weight before the flight. This ensures the helicopter is safely loaded.
What types of experiences can I expect on an Alaska helicopter tour?
You’ll get to see amazing sights from the air, like glaciers, waterfalls, and mountains. There’s also the chance to land on glaciers. Plus, you can try guided walks on them.
How long do helicopter tours in Alaska typically last?
Tour lengths vary. They can be as short as 60 minutes or last several hours. Some include extra time for exploring glaciers.
How do I choose the right helicopter tour package?
Think about what you like. Do you prefer being with a group or alone? There are special trips too, like dogsledding or hiking. Choose what fits your adventure style.
What safety measures are in place for helicopter tours?
Top tour companies focus a lot on safety. They provide thorough pilot training and use the latest helicopters. Plus, every passenger gets a full safety briefing before flying.
Are there photography opportunities during the helicopter tour?
Yes! You’ll find awesome chances to take pictures. The views of glaciers, forests, and wildlife from above are incredible. It’s a photographer’s dream.
Can I customize my helicopter tour in Alaska?
You can indeed personalize your tour. Many operators let you choose what you want to see and do. You can pick based on what interests you, how long you want to tour, and the activities you’re excited about.
