Juneau: 5-Glacier Flightseeing Discovery by Seaplane

Imagine soaring over some of the most dramatic landscapes in Alaska, with a window seat that frames towering glaciers, winding rivers, and lush forests. That’s exactly what you get with the Juneau 5-Glacier Flightseeing Discovery, a 40-minute adventure offered by Wings Airways. From the vibrant Juneau waterfront, you’ll lift off in a classic floatplane—specifically a De Havilland Otter—and cruise over the Juneau Icefield, home to five massive glaciers, each with its own story and character.

What we love about this tour is how it combines breathtaking scenery with expert narration, giving you context and stories that deepen the experience. The views of Taku Glacier—famous for its size and history—and the chance to spot wildlife like eagles and mountain goats from above make this a memorable journey.

A potential consideration for travelers is the weather dependency inherent in flying in Alaska. If fog or storms roll in, the tour might be canceled or delayed for safety reasons. It’s worth being flexible and prepared for the possibility of rescheduling.

This experience is ideal for those who relish spectacular views, are curious about glaciers, and want a unique perspective on Alaska’s wilderness without a long time commitment. It suits travelers looking for a blend of adventure, education, and awe-inspiring scenery—perfect for first-timers or seasoned explorers alike.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: See five of the region’s massive glaciers and the expansive Juneau Icefield from the air.
• Expert Narration: Learn about glaciers, regional history, and the science behind the ice from your pilot.
• Wildlife Sightings: Spot eagles, mountain goats, and possibly bears, adding a wild element to your flight.
• Intimate Experience: The 40-minute tour offers a personal, bird’s-eye view without being overly rushed.
• Weather Caution: Flights depend heavily on weather conditions, and cancellations are possible for safety.
• Ideal for: Those fascinated by glaciers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a unique view of Alaska’s wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Adventure

Taking off from downtown Juneau’s seaplane base in a De Havilland Otter floatplane sets the tone for an authentic Alaskan adventure. The check-in at Wings Airways, located at the Merchants Wharf Building, is straightforward, and the tour is designed to be concise yet packed with unforgettable sights.

Over the 40 minutes of flight, you’ll witness what’s often called “true Alaskan wilderness”—the vast, rugged landscape of the Tongass National Forest sprawls below, with its dense trees, braided rivers, and waterfalls. The main highlight, of course, is the Juneau Icefield and its five glaciers: Norris, Hole-in-the-Wall, East Twin, West Twin, and the impressive Taku Glacier.

What Makes This Flight Special?

The views of glaciers are the star attraction. These glaciers are not just static ice masses—they are in motion, slowly carving the mountain valleys and shaping the landscape. The pilot’s narration enhances this by explaining which glaciers are receding, which are thinning, and what that means for the environment. One traveler mentioned, “Seeing the glaciers twist through the mountains with their fractured surfaces glowing blue was surreal.”

Another aspect we love is the chance to see braided rivers and alpine ridges from above. The rivers sparkle as they weave through the valleys, and the peaks seem to reach up and touch the sky. The Taku Glacier, in particular, is a sight to behold: wide, towering, with deep crevasses and a flow that looks powerful enough to move mountains.

The Experience on Board

The floatplane offers large viewing windows, giving everyone an unobstructed view. The window seats are perfect for photography, and the pilot’s voice guiding your journey makes the experience educational as well as visual. The constant narration covers topics like glacier science, regional geology, and local history, making this more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive educational experience.

Travelers frequently note the stunning scenery: “The views of the glaciers and the glacier-fed rivers were out of this world. It’s a perspective you can’t get from the ground,” one reviewer shares. Wildlife sightings are also a bonus, with bald eagles often spotted soaring nearby, and some reports of mountain goats or bears seen from a distance.

The Weather Factor

One thing to keep in mind is that Alaska’s weather is unpredictable. Cloud cover or rain can lead to cancellations or delays. Wings Airways has a good safety record and will fully refund you if the weather prevents the flight. This might be disappointing, but it’s a small price to pay for a safe, high-quality experience.

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Price and Value

The cost of this tour reflects its exclusivity and the quality of the views. For 40 minutes in the air, it’s a fairly typical price for this kind of high-altitude adventure. What makes it valuable is the combination of stunning vistas, expert narration, and the chance to see glaciers, rivers, and wildlife from a perspective that’s impossible to replicate on land.

Many travelers felt that the tour was well worth the cost, especially when considering the unique opportunity to witness glaciers in motion and the immense scale of the icefields. The experience is intimate, with small groups, and the pilot’s storytelling adds a personal touch.

A Well-Rounded Itinerary

The itinerary is straightforward but impactful. After a smooth takeoff, you gain altitude quickly, allowing for a broad view of Juneau’s rugged terrain. The flight over the Juneau Icefield offers a glimpse into the dynamics of glaciers—their twisting paths, fractured surfaces, and the blue hues caused by compressed ice.

As you fly over each glacier, your pilot shares stories about their history, current state, and significance. The Taku Glacier is the highlight, with its massive size and dramatic crevasses. Then, your route takes you over braided rivers and waterfalls that cascade from the glaciers to the ocean, adding to the visual feast.

The return journey offers a final opportunity to take photos and soak in the scenery before landing smoothly back at the seaplane base. Many reviews mention that the flight’s duration is perfect—long enough to see a lot, but not so long to become tiring.

Authenticity and Education

This isn’t just a sightseeing flight; it’s an educational experience. The pilot’s detailed explanations help you understand the climate change impacts—such as glacier thinning and retreat—and how these natural wonders fit into the broader picture of our planet’s health.

One traveler noted, “I appreciated how the pilot explained the glaciers’ current condition and what’s happening to them. It made the breathtaking views even more meaningful.”

Wildlife and Additional Sights

While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the possibility of spotting bald eagles soaring above or mountain goats on the ridges adds an exciting element. Sometimes, bears may be seen near rivers or glaciers, but this is less predictable. The focus remains on the glaciers and landscape, but the wildlife sightings are a delightful bonus.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This flight is perfect for nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and those wanting to understand climate change from a frontline perspective. It’s also well-suited for travelers with limited time but who crave a meaningful, scenic, and educational experience.

If you’re visiting Juneau and want to see the massiveness and beauty of glaciers in a safe, comfortable setting with expert narration, this tour hits the mark. It’s a fantastic way to get a bird’s-eye view of the wilderness that defines Alaska.

This Juneau 5-Glacier Flightseeing is a spectacular way to experience Alaska’s icy giants from a perspective that’s both awe-inspiring and educational. The combination of stunning scenery, expert narration, and the chance to spot wildlife makes it a standout activity for many travelers.

While weather can be a factor, the safety-first approach of Wings Airways means you’ll be refunded if the skies are not cooperating—an honest and responsible policy. The value lies in the remarkable views and the stories you’ll carry home, making it more than just a scenic flight but a meaningful encounter with nature.

If you’re seeking a short yet impactful adventure that combines natural beauty with learning and photography opportunities, this tour deserves a spot on your Alaska itinerary.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, flightseeing in Alaska relies on good weather conditions. If fog, rain, or storms occur, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled for safety reasons. Wings Airways offers full refunds if the flight is canceled due to weather.

How long is the flight?
The flight lasts approximately 40 minutes, offering ample time to see five glaciers, rivers, and forests from above.

Can I see wildlife during the flight?
Wildlife sightings are possible but not guaranteed. Bald eagles are commonly seen, and occasionally mountain goats or bears might be spotted from the air.

Where do I meet the tour?
The check-in is at Wings Airways’ seaplane base at the Merchants Wharf Building in Juneau’s downtown waterfront area. The exact coordinates are 58.299374, -134.407516.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views. The aircraft has large windows suited for photography.

Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is relatively short and generally accessible for most, but it’s best to check directly with Wings Airways if concerned about mobility or age restrictions.

How do I reserve or pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, allowing flexibility in your travel plans. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This flight is a must-do for anyone eager to see Alaska’s glaciers in a way that’s both intimate and impressive. The views are genuinely breathtaking, and the insights from your pilot add depth to the experience. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting an authentic, educational, and visually stunning adventure that captures the true essence of Juneau’s wilderness. Whether you’re a glacier enthusiast or simply looking to elevate your Alaska trip, this tour offers a rare and memorable perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby