Homepage / Tours / Helicopter Glacier Trek

Helicopter Glacier Trek

4 ¼ Hours Duration

From pick-up to drop-off

Scenic Helicopter Flight

Over the Juneau Icefield

Limited Seats Available

Book early for this high-demand tour

Guided Glacier Walk

Two hours on the glacier

Description

Looking for an in-depth glacier exploration that doesn't take all day to reach? Then the Helicopter Glacier Trek is the tour for you. Most of the Juneau Icefield is inaccessible without taking to the skies, which is why the Mendenhall Glacier helicopter tour is a perfect choice. Soar over awe-inspiring peaks before landing on one of several glaciers where adventure awaits you on this two-hour trek. Learn about the fascinating ice features from the expert guides as they take you on an unforgettable journey. No experience is required on this helicopter glacier trek, but don’t forget your camera and an adventurous spirit!

This Mendenhall Glacier helicopter tour begins with pickup at the cruise ship docks. Upon arrival at the helicopter base, you’ll be fitted in all of the necessary gear. The experienced and knowledgeable guides will explain the safety requirements and glacial features so that you can explore remote areas on the ever-changing glacier. Let the excitement build as you climb into the helicopter and fly over several glaciers and captivating peaks.

After touching down on the giant icescape, your journey has just begun on this adventurous helicopter glacier trek. Explore deep crevasses, moulins, and frozen rivers of ice as your guides safely navigate you on this two-hour trek. Finally, soak it all in with more breathtaking views during your helicopter flight back to town. Your guide will drive you right back to the cruise ship dock, leaving you with no worries about navigating around Juneau Alaska, and an adventure you will never forget!

For those wanting an even more in-depth glacier exploration that includes ice-climbing, check out the Extended Helicopter Glacier Trek!

What's Included

Roundtrip transportation

Knowledgeable Guides

Gear Provided: Rain Pants, Rain Jacket, Gloves, Harness, Mountaineering Boots, Crampons, Ice Axe, Helmet

Light Snack & Water

Guide Gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I need extra help on the tour?

Your pilot will be with you the entire tour, so they’ll be happy to lend a helping hand whenever necessary. This tour does require a moderate level of fitness in order to load/unload the helicopter and navigate on icy/uneven terrain. If you require extra assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us ahead of your tour and discuss your particular needs.

What should I wear?

Dress warmly and in layers as the temperature on the glacier is often colder than you are used to. We recommend long pants, a hat, mid-height athletic socks, and sunglasses! The following equipment is provided: Rain and wind-proof jacket and pants, hard shell mountaineering boots, crampons, gloves, helmet, harness, trekking pole, and pack with tissues, water, and a granola bar. Remember to bring your camera and an appetite for adventure!

What happens if the weather is too bad to fly?

If the weather is just not cooperating and the pilots determine that it’s too bad to fly, we’ll do our best to reschedule you to a later time of day that works for you. If you choose not to reschedule or we can’t find a time that works for you, we will refund you.

How many passengers per helicopter?

Each helicopter can seat up to 6 passengers, provided the weight and balance calculations work out in each aircraft.

What if my tour group is larger than 6 people?

There are several helicopters available at the base and can make accommodations for larger groups with advance notice. If your group exceeds 6 passengers and requires the use of multiple aircraft, we instruct the pilots to coordinate landing locations on the glacier so that you can have your landing time together.

Will the pilot get out with us?

Definitely. Your pilot will act as your guide for your entire helicopter tour, including the time you’ll spend on the glacier. This allows for a truly focused tour experience.

Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: 12 years old

Maximum 6 guests per helicopter.

Not wheelchair accessible.

Individuals weighing 250lbs or more are subject to additional fees.

Approximately 25 minutes of flight time and approximately 2 hours trekking on glacier.

Guests must be comfortable walking about 2 miles over uneven, steep terrain.

Higher than average cancellation rates due to weather. Cancellations are determined by the tour operator.

Cancel up to 14-days before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 14-days of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.

Quick Facts

City

Juneau

Itinerary • 4h 25min • 4 activities

Guides will meet you at your cruise pier or downtown hotel for transport to the airport.

Duration

20 minutes

Get geared up in the glacier boots provided and meet your pilot/guide for a brief safety orientation. You can leave behind unneeded items for pickup later.

Duration

40 minutes

Lift off and fly over the Juneau Icefield for a short flight to basecamp. Once you arrive you'll begin your 2 mile adventure that is equal parts discovery, ice trekking & exploration.

Duration

2 hours 20 minutes

Return flight to the helicopter base to grab any belongings before boarding the van back to the cruise docks and downtown Juneau.

Duration

55 minutes