Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour + Lower Glacier Landing – ANCHORAGE AREA

A Thrilling Alaskan Adventure: Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour + Lower Glacier Landing

If you’re craving a true taste of Alaska’s wild beauty, this Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour offers an unforgettable combo of aerial views, icy exploration, and close encounters with sled dogs. Priced at $822.97 per person, the roughly two-hour experience packs in a 30-minute helicopter flight, a guided glacier walk, and a dogsled ride on snow, all from the Alaska Glacier Lodge near Palmer, AK. It’s a full-on adventure that takes you over massive glaciers, into deep crevasses, and finally onto the snow with the spirited sled dogs.

What sets this tour apart for us is the small group size, capped at nine participants, which means you get a more personalized, less rushed experience. Plus, the guided glacier walk offers up-close looks at melt pools and crevices, making the icy landscape feel accessible and immersive. The chance to see wildlife like moose and bears from the helicopter adds an extra thrill, according to reviews. If you’re a lover of authentic outdoor pursuits and breathtaking scenery, this tour will hit the spot.

That said, a couple of considerations are worth noting. The tour is quite pricey—yet many feel the value matches the cost, especially given the multi-activity nature and the professional guides and pilots. Also, you’ll need to come prepared for wet weather—rain gear and warm layers are essential, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, once-in-a-lifetime experience in Alaska, and are comfortable with helicopter flights and outdoor winter conditions.

In sum, this experience appeals most to adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and families looking for a unique introduction to Alaska’s glaciers. It’s perfect if you want to combine thrilling flight-seeing with hands-on glacier exploration and dog sledding—all in a compact, well-organized tour.

Key Points

• Unique multi-activity experience: Combines helicopter flight, glacier walk, and dogsledding in one tour.
• Small group size: Ensures personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
• Stunning vistas: Aerial views of glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife spotted by experienced pilots.
• Authentic encounters: Close-up with sled dogs and glacier terrain that few travelers see.
• Weather considerations: Dress in layers and rain gear; tour depends on weather conditions.
• High value: Many reviews highlight the tour as worth every penny despite the cost.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point: Alaska Glacier Lodge

Your journey begins at the Alaska Glacier Lodge, located 30 minutes from Palmer, AK. Check-in is straightforward, and since the admission is free, it’s a relaxed start. From here, you’ll board a helicopter, with the most scenic part—that 30-minute flight—taking you above vast glaciers and icebergs. Many reviewers mention Christian, the pilot, as “an amazing pilot with a wealth of information,” making the flight both informative and visually stunning.

The Helicopter Flight

The helicopter experience is the highlight for many. Expect breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, crevasses, and melt pools. The Helicopter used is a Robinson 44 or ASTAR, flown by skilled pilots who often share interesting facts about the landscape. Many travelers quote how flying low over the glacier was “absolutely amazing,” and the possibility of spotting wildlife like bears and moose adds a bonus element to this part of the adventure.

Guided Glacier Walk

After the flight, you’ll step onto the glacier itself for a guided walk. The experience is described as “awesome,” with visitors able to literally walk on ice, view deep crevices, and melt pools that shimmer in vivid blues. The guides emphasize safety, ensuring you get a close-up view without risking mishaps. Some reviews mention that the glacier walk was a highlight, with one reviewer saying she should have done it before the dogsled ride because it was “awesome” and memorable.

Dogsled Ride

The dogsledding part is often described as “an incredible experience,” especially for those who have never tried it before. You get to drive or ride with sled dogs, pet puppies, and learn about mushing from experienced handlers. Many reviews highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are, making the experience accessible and fun for all ages, including kids as young as 7.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

A notable plus is the chance to spot wildlife during the helicopter flight, with reports of bears, mountain goats, and moose. The scenery itself is awe-inspiring: iceberg landscapes that look like marble, with deep crevices and aqua pools—a photographer’s dream.

What’s Not Included

• Round-trip transportation can be added for an additional fee but is not included in the base price.
• Over 250 lbs, a comfort surcharge applies, and some reviews comment on this fee.
• Waterproof outerwear is recommended, as weather can turn wet or snowy quickly.
• Bags and loose items are not permitted on the helicopter, so plan accordingly.

Overall Experience and Feedback

The consistent rave reviews underscore how many consider this a “lifetime experience.” Travelers praise the professionalism of the guides and pilots, the stunning scenery, and the value of the multi-activity format. Some mention how the small group size made the experience more personal, and several appreciated the knowledgeable guides who shared interesting facts about the landscape and wildlife.

One reviewer summed it up nicely, saying, “This was definitely an experience of a lifetime for me and my friends! Everything went great from the start with our hotel transfer to Alaska Glacier Lodge.” The safety and professionalism of the guides and pilots consistently earn high marks.

Considerations and Tips

• Dress appropriately in warm, waterproof layers—conditions can be cold and wet.
• Book well in advance, as this tour is popular and often booked 97 days ahead.
• Be prepared for the cost—many travelers find the experience worth every dollar, especially considering the multi-activity format.
• For those over 250 lbs, be aware of the comfort surcharge and contact the operator if you have concerns.
• Weather can cancel or modify plans; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers eager for a full day of outdoor fun, families wanting a memorable trip, or photographers looking for stunning landscapes. If you’re comfortable with helicopter flights and enjoy getting up close with glaciers and wildlife, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for those who want a comprehensive, authentic Alaska experience that combines scenery, activity, and education.

Final Thoughts

The Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour + Lower Glacier Landing offers an authentic, multi-layered glimpse into the rugged beauty of Alaska. You’ll love the stunning aerial vistas and hands-on glacier walk, and the dogsledding creates memories that last a lifetime. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience, making it feel special rather than rushed.

While it’s a premium experience with a matching price tag, many reviewers feel the value is justified by the quality of the scenery, professional service, and unique activities included. It’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their Alaska adventure, especially those eager to combine adrenaline with authentic nature exploration.

If you’re visiting Anchorage area and want to see glaciers up close, spot wildlife, and try sledding on snow, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to dress warmly, prepare for weather, and book early—this is one adventure you won’t forget.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, round-trip transportation can be added for an extra fee, but the tour itself starts at the Alaska Glacier Lodge near Palmer.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience runs about two hours, including flight, glacier walk, and dogsledding.

What are the age limits for participation?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but check if any specific restrictions apply based on weather or physical condition.

Is this tour suitable for people who fear heights or flying?
While many find the helicopter flight exhilarating, those with concerns about heights or flying should consider their comfort level before booking.

What should I wear?
Bring warm layers, rainproof outerwear, hats, and gloves. Waterproof overboots are provided, but dress in moisture-resistant clothing.

Can I bring my bag?
No, bags or loose items are not permitted in the helicopter; lockers are available at the site.

In sum, this tour offers a compelling blend of scenery, adventure, and authentic Alaskan encounters. It’s an investment in memories, perfect for those seeking something truly special in the wilderness.