Helicopter To a Dogsledding Experience

Helicopter To a Dogsledding Experience: A Thrilling Glacier Adventure in Juneau

Imagine soaring over a 1500-square-mile icefield in a helicopter, then landing on a remote glacier camp where a team of energetic huskies eagerly await to pull you across the snow. For just $727 per person, this 3-hour tour offers a rare blend of breathtaking aerial views and authentic Alaskan dogsledding that’s perfect for adventurers craving a taste of the wild.

What we particularly love about this experience is how intimate it feels—with a maximum of 12 travelers, you’re not lost in a crowd. Plus, the stunning views of glaciers and rugged mountain terrain make every second memorable. The friendly guides and professional pilots add a reassuring layer of safety and knowledge, making it more than just a thrill ride.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather can cancel the tour, sometimes at the last minute, so it’s wise to stay flexible. This tour suits travelers who love adventure, nature, and authentic encounters—especially those eager to see glaciers from above and meet the hardworking sled dogs that embody Alaska’s spirit.

Key Points

• Unique Aerial and Ground Experience: Combines helicopter flights over glaciers with an on-site dogsled ride.
• Small Group Size: Max 12 travelers for a more personal, immersive adventure.
• Spectacular Views: From soaring over icefields to standing on Herbert Glacier, scenery is unforgettable.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable pilots and mushers enhance safety and storytelling.
• Weather Dependence: Tours may cancel due to weather, so flexibility is essential.
• Inclusive Equipment: Boots and raincoats provided, ensuring comfort in harsh conditions.

A Close Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure kicks off with a pick-up in Juneau—several locations are available, or you can opt for hassle-free transportation if you’re arriving by cruise ship. The tour is operated by Coastal Helicopters, a company known for professional service and safety. They operate shuttles about an hour before the flight to accommodate cruise schedules, which is a thoughtful touch that fits well with Alaska’s bustling cruise season.

The Helicopter Flight: Soaring Over Glaciers

The flight time of 25 to 30 minutes is split into two parts: a scenic aerial tour over the Juneau Icefield and Herbert Glacier and the return journey back to town. Expect jaw-dropping views of massive ice formations, rugged mountains, and perhaps even the chance to spot wildlife below. Several reviews highlight how smooth and professional the helicopter ride is, with many describing the experience as “breathtaking” and “jaw-droppingly good.”

The helicopter is small but comfortable, with strict weight limits (500 lbs per passenger) designed to ensure safety and balance. You’ll want to be sure your weight is reported accurately at booking to avoid delays or cancellations. Seating is based on weight, so families or groups may be split into multiple helicopters, but the tour ensures everyone reunites at the glacier.

Landing on Herbert Glacier

Once you arrive at the glacier camp, the scenery transforms into a pristine winter wonderland—white snow stretching endlessly, surrounded by towering peaks. The camp is quite secluded, giving you a real sense of being “off the grid.” Here, the highlight is the dogsled ride, guided by an experienced musher like Sam, who is praised in reviews for her engaging storytelling and warmth.

You can choose to sit back and relax or stand on the runners and take part in guiding the sled. The ride itself lasts about 20 minutes, a short but exciting burst of adrenaline. Many reviews mention how friendly and lively the Alaskan huskies are—they love to run and are eager to show off their strength and enthusiasm.

The Dogsledding Adventure

The sledding experience is the core of this tour—an authentic taste of what life is like for Alaskan mushers. The setting among mountain peaks and an ancient snowfield makes it especially picturesque. Some reviewers noted that the sled ride was shorter than expected, with multiple stops and some downtime at the camp, but most agree that the scenery and the opportunity to meet the dogs make it worthwhile.

The musher guides are full of insights about the dogs’ personalities and the sport of sledding. They share stories about their work on the glaciers, adding a personal touch that elevates the experience beyond just a ride.

Returning and Additional Highlights

After the sledding, you’ll hop back into the helicopter for a 15-minute overflight of Herbert Glacier on the way back to the heliport. The return trip often garners praise for being just as spectacular as the outbound flight, with many describing it as “the perfect ending to a perfect day.”

Authenticity and Value

This tour is packed with authentic Alaskan charm—from the rugged terrain and icy vistas to the lively, well-trained dogs. The small group size ensures you won’t feel like just another tourist; instead, you’ll feel like a guest in a very special, very wild corner of the world.

At $727, it’s not cheap, but when you consider the comprehensive experience—helicopter flights, a glacier landing, and a dogsled ride—it offers great value for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Many travelers comment on how well-organized and professional the operation is, which adds peace of mind when undertaking such a memorable experience.

What the Reviews Say

• Spectacular views and smooth flights are consistent highlights, with travelers calling the helicopter ride “incredible” and “jaw-droppingly beautiful.”
• The dogs and mushers garner praise for their enthusiasm and expertise; one reviewer even called Peter an “incredible musher.”
• While weather can cause cancellations, travelers who experience clear days describe the scenery as “breathtaking” and “unforgettable.”
• Some note that the sledding portion is brief, but the overall experience still feels worth the cost given its rarity and authenticity.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Dress warmly in layers; the air can be chilly, and rain or snow are common in Alaska.
• Wear rubber-soled shoes like light hiking boots or athletic shoes for comfort and safety on snow and ice.
• Bring your camera, binoculars, and extra batteries—the scenery and wildlife views are incredible.
• Be accurate about your weight when booking; this is crucial for the helicopter’s safety and scheduling.
• Keep in mind that no bags are allowed on the helicopter; you may leave luggage at the check-in area.
• If you have limited mobility, contact the tour provider ahead of time—they aim to accommodate special needs.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for a truly memorable Alaska experience. It’s especially appealing for families with kids (most reviews mention it’s kid-friendly), couples, or solo travelers eager to explore glaciers from the air and meet Alaska’s iconic sled dogs.

However, if you’re prone to motion sickness or strictly worried about weather cancellations, you might want to prepare for the possibility of rescheduling or obtaining a refund. Also, if sledding longer or more extensive is a priority for you, note that many have found the sled ride somewhat shorter than expected.

Final Thoughts

The Helicopter to Dogsledding Experience in Juneau offers a compelling mix of breathtaking aerial views and authentic outdoor adventure. The rare opportunity to land on a glacier, meet sled dogs, and ride through snowy terrain makes it a highlight of any Alaskan itinerary. The small-group setting ensures a more personal journey, and the professionalism of the operators adds comfort to an already exhilarating day.

While it costs a premium, many reviewers agree that it’s worth every penny for the memories created—the stunning landscapes, the spirited dogs, and the thrill of soaring over glaciers are experiences that will stay with you long after you return home. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or simply looking to tick a bucket list item, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentically Alaskan adventure that’s hard to beat.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including the helicopter flights, glacier landing, and dogsled ride.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers round-trip helicopter flight, dogsled experience, transportation to and from facilities, pilot and musher guides, and boots and raincoats if needed.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but lap children are not allowed. Each passenger must purchase a full fare ticket.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
This experience is limited to 12 travelers maximum for a more intimate and personalized adventure.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, each passenger must not exceed 500 lbs. Accurate weights are necessary at booking for safety and scheduling.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers and wear rubber-soled shoes. The tour company provides raincoats and overshoes as needed.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely—bring your camera, binoculars, and extra batteries to capture the incredible scenery and moments.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable, but if canceled due to weather, you will be offered a different date or full refund.

In all, this tour is a must-do for anyone eager to see Alaska’s wild beauty from above and experience the thrill of a genuine dogsled ride—a true bucket-list adventure.