Juneau: Taku Glacier Lodge 5-Glacier Flight & Feast

Imagine flying in a classic floatplane over some of Southeast Alaska’s most stunning glaciers, then landing right next to a historic lodge for a hearty meal and a taste of wild Alaska. That’s precisely what the Taku Glacier Lodge 5-Glacier Flight & Feast offers. For about three hours, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of five massive glaciers, delicious salmon cooked over an open fire, and a chance to wander forested trails or relax by a cozy hearth.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized aerial tour with individual headsets enhances the connection to the landscape, making the scenery feel intimate and immersive. Second, the historic lodge—built in 1923 and perched across from the Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier—adds a charming and authentic touch of Alaskan pioneering spirit.

A couple of considerations: flight-seeing is weather-dependent, so cancellation or rescheduling might happen if the skies aren’t clear. Also, the tour isn’t suited for those with mobility challenges or large weight limits, which is understandable given the small floatplane.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of stunning scenery, cultural history, and delicious local food—ideal for those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about Alaska’s glaciers and wilderness.

Key Points

• Unmatched Glacier Views: Five glaciers, including Taku, Norris, and East & West Twin Glaciers, unfold beneath you in stunning detail.
• Personalized Flight Experience: Every seat is a window seat, with individual headsets providing engaging narration.
• Historic Taku Glacier Lodge: Built in 1923, offering authentic Alaskan hospitality and storytelling.
• Culinary Delight: Salmon grilled over alderwood, served with local sides and glacier ice drinks—great for food lovers.
• Flexible Post-Meal Options: Forest trails, hearthside relaxation, or porch sitting—your choice of slow or active exploration.
• Weather Dependency: Flightseeing relies on clear skies; be prepared for possible rescheduling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Scenic Flight: Gliding Over Southeast Alaska’s Giants

We loved the way the tour takes off smoothly from Juneau’s waterfront, with a classic De Havilland Otter floatplane that feels both nostalgic and robust. The sensation of leaving the harbor behind and ascending to the glaciers is invigorating. From the window, the views are all about wide-open, unobstructed panoramas—every seat is a window seat, so you won’t miss a thing.

Your pilot and guide will deliver engaging commentary through individual headsets, helping you identify each glacier and explaining their unique features. You’ll get a sense of the scale and power of these ice masses—cascading icefalls, deep blue crevasses, and towering seracs—as you fly over Norris, East Twin, West Twin, Hole-in-the-Wall, and Taku Glacier. Many reviewers comment that the views are breathtaking and worth every penny, with some noting they felt privileged to witness such raw natural beauty.

Landing and the Historic Taku Glacier Lodge

Touching down on the Taku River gives you a sense of stepping into a kind of wilderness sanctuary. This lodge, built in 1923, is the only glacier-view dining spot in Southeast Alaska—a real gem. Sitting across from the Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier, the lodge offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere that feels both welcoming and steeped in history.

The smell of alderwood-smoked wild salmon immediately signals that you’re in for a treat. The lodge staff serve up a generous helping of salmon grilled over an open fire, alongside homemade baked beans, coleslaw, and pioneer fruit compote. They also bring glacier ice to chill your drinks, adding a touch of authenticity. Several visitors rave about the quality of the food, describing the salmon as “delicious and perfectly cooked,” and noting that the meal is a highlight of the trip.

Exploring Nature and Relaxing

After lunch, you’re free to choose how to spend your time. Many take a guided nature walk along forested trails, where you might see local flora and possibly even black bears—a wild animal sighting that adds a thrill, as some reviews mention. Others prefer to relax by the stone hearth, sipping hot drinks or simply soaking in the serenity of the glacier-lit landscape.

The atmosphere is quiet and contemplative, with the fresh, crisp air and the sound of distant ice cracking creating an immersive experience. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with nature in a way that feels both peaceful and awe-inspiring.

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The Return Flight and Final Glacier Flyby

As your time winds down, your floatplane takes you back across the icefield, providing a spectacular final view of the glaciers below. The flight back offers another chance to marvel at the vast size and intricate detail of these frozen giants—a perfect way to seal the memory. Landings at Juneau’s waterfront are smooth, and many travelers say they leave feeling both exhilarated and humbled by the landscape.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 3 hours total—perfect for a morning or early afternoon activity.
• Meeting Point: Downtown Juneau at Wings Airways Floatplane Base (2 Marine Way, Historic Merchants Wharf). Easy to find, close to other downtown attractions.
• Price & Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.
• What to Bring: Your camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of adventure. The weather can be unpredictable, so layers are recommended.
• Limitations: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those over 297 lbs (135 kg). The floatplane is small, and safety regulations restrict larger weights.
• Additional Notes: Black bear sightings are possible but not guaranteed. The tour is conducted in English, with live narration enhancing the experience.

Why It Might Not Be for Everyone

If you’re wary of flying in small aircraft or prone to motion sickness, this might not be ideal. Weather cancellations are a possibility—so keep your plans flexible. Also, if you’re looking for a big-group, bus-style tour, this experience is more intimate, which is part of its charm.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers craving an authentic, front-row view of Alaska’s glaciers with a side of history and local cuisine. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, or those interested in Alaska’s pioneering past. If you want a memorable adventure that combines spectacular scenery with cultural flavor, this experience hits the right notes.

It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, as well as travelers who appreciate small, personalized tours with plenty of storytelling.

Final Thoughts

The Taku Glacier Lodge 5-Glacier Flight & Feast offers a rare chance to see Alaska’s glaciers from the sky, then enjoy a hearty, authentic meal at a historic lodge right next to one of the most active glaciers in the world. The combination of spectacular views, engaging narration, and a cozy, rustic dining experience makes this tour stand out.

While weather can be a limiting factor, the overall value lies in the opportunity to witness some of Southeast Alaska’s most iconic landscapes in an intimate, meaningful way. The experience is well-suited for those who value authentic encounters and scenic beauty, and who don’t mind a bit of adventure to access it.

If you’re after a combination of sightseeing, culture, and great food in a setting that feels both wild and welcoming, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the flightseeing relies on clear skies. If the weather isn’t suitable, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including the flight, meal, and optional exploration.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At Wings Airways Floatplane Base in downtown Juneau, specifically at 2 Marine Way in the Historic Merchants Wharf.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a meal featuring wild Alaskan salmon grilled over an open fire, with side dishes and glacier ice drinks.

Can I explore after the meal?
Absolutely. You can go on a guided nature walk, relax by the hearth, or sit on the porch and enjoy the views at your own pace.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but it is mainly suited for those comfortable with small aircraft and outdoor activity.

Are there weight restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people over 297 lbs (135 kg) due to safety regulations on the floatplane.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of adventure. Layering is advised in case of changing weather.

Is there a chance to see wildlife?
While possible, wildlife sightings like black bears are not guaranteed, but the natural setting offers potential for close encounters.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexible planning options.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Alaska’s wilderness and history, wrapped up in a memorable flight and feast. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, it’s a chance to enjoy the true spirit of Southeast Alaska.

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