Anchorage: Knik Glacier Helicopter Tour with Landing

This helicopter tour offers an extraordinary glimpse into Alaska’s rugged beauty. For about an hour—including a scenic drive from Anchorage—you’ll soar over the Chugach Range, glide above the Knik Glacier, and land on the ancient ice for a close-up experience. At $479 per person, this adventure is a significant investment, but many travelers find it thoroughly worth every penny for the once-in-a-lifetime views and authentic connection to Alaska’s wild landscape.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the opportunity to walk on 1,000-year-old ice—a surreal moment—and the chance to see wildlife from above, including moose, bears, and mountain goats, which adds to the sense of adventure. The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, providing insight into the landscape and ensuring safety in this remote environment.

A potential consideration is the cost, which might feel steep for some, but given the level of exclusivity, the pristine scenery, and the uniqueness of the glacier landing, many find it a justified splurge. This tour is best suited for travelers who crave authentic outdoor experiences and don’t mind heights or cold weather in exchange for extraordinary views and personal encounters with Alaska’s wilderness.

Key Points

• Unmatched scenery: Fly over the Chugach Range and Knik Glacier, spotting wildlife from above.
• Unique glacier landing: Walk on ice that’s over a thousand years old, a rare and memorable experience.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable pilots enhance safety and storytelling, enriching your understanding.
• Photo opportunities: Capture stunning images of glaciers, crevasses, waterfalls, and blue melt pools.
• Flexible timing: Tours usually run in the morning, afternoon, or evening, offering options.
• Value for adventure seekers: Though pricey, the experience delivers a true sense of Alaska’s wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins at the Alaska Glacier Lodge, located about an hour’s drive north of Anchorage. Transfers are available for purchase, which is helpful if you’re not renting a car—consider this when planning your day. The drive itself is scenic, giving you a taste of Alaska’s rugged terrain before your flight.

The Scenic Flight

Once at the lodge, your pilot and guide will brief you on safety and what to expect. Then, you’ll hop into your helicopter, which offers panoramic windows perfect for photography. We loved the way the helicopter’s altitude and maneuverability allowed us to glide smoothly over the valleys, giving us a bird’s-eye view of the Knik River and the surrounding mountains.

During the roughly 30-minute flight, you’ll ascend the Great Gorge—a stunning natural canyon carved by glaciers—and pass over the vast Knik Glacier. The landscape is constantly changing: you’ll see glacial rivers snaking through the ice, massive crevasses, and blue melt pools that look like something from a science fiction film. The views are constantly shifting, and you might even catch sight of moose, bears, or Dall Sheep from above, adding a wild, untouched feeling to the experience.

Landing on Knik Glacier

The highlight is the 30-minute stop on the glacier itself. The helicopter gently touches down on the bright blue ice—a surreal experience. The guides will help you walk around and explore the glacier’s surface, which is surprisingly smooth in some spots and deeply crevassed in others. We loved tasting the pure glacier water straight from the melt pools, a simple but memorable pleasure.

Your guide will point out features like glacial blue water flowing beneath the ice, and explain how wind, water, and sun shape the landscape. Many guests use this time to take photos—one reviewer called it “priceless”—or simply enjoy the silence and vastness of this remote wilderness.

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The Return Flight

After your glacier walk, the helicopter takes you back over the Knik River valley, flying over the rushing glacier river. The 15-minute return flight offers more spectacular views and a chance to reflect on the unique experience you’ve just had.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Authenticity and Adventure

This isn’t a tourist trap. Many reviews emphasize how professional and knowledgeable the pilots and guides are, such as Eugenio from the US, who called the team “superb” and “amazing,” noting they made everyone feel safe and comfortable. The opportunity to walk on a glacier that’s over a thousand years old gives this tour an authentic, tangible connection to Alaska’s icy history.

Stunning Scenery

From lush green valleys to expansive icy plains, the scenery is breathtaking. Mauro from Italy described the experience as “above expectations,” and Giulia called it “the most amazing experience of our lives,” highlighting the visual impact. You’ll love the diversity of landscapes, from the lush mountain slopes to the deep blue ice of the glacier.

Wildlife Viewing from the Air

While you might not see wildlife up close, the aerial perspective often reveals animals like moose, bears, and mountain goats in their natural habitat, as several reviewers appreciated. It adds an exciting dimension to the flight and underscores the wildness of the area.

Photographer’s Dream

Photographers and nature lovers will find the tour incredibly rewarding. The vibrant colors of the glacier, the expansive vistas, and the chance to capture moments on ice make it a high-value experience for those eager to document their trip.

Considerations

While the price is steep, most travelers find the cost justified by the exclusivity and quality of the experience. The duration is just about an hour, so it’s a relatively short but intense adventure. Weather can be unpredictable—cloud cover or wind might delay or cancel flights—so flexibility in your schedule can help.

Practical Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—layers are advisable due to temperature variations.
• Sunglasses are recommended to shield your eyes from the glare.
• A reusable water bottle is handy, especially since you’ll be tasting glacier water.
• Note that pets, smoking, drones, and open-toed shoes are not permitted during the tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventure travelers who are comfortable with heights and cold environments. It’s perfect for those seeking a unique outdoor activity that combines scenic flight with an authentic glacier walk. Families with older children, photographers, or anyone wanting to deepen their connection to Alaska’s wild landscapes will find this tour especially rewarding.

If you’re looking for a bucket-list experience that offers both stunning scenery and a tangible sense of the region’s ancient glaciers, this tour hits the mark. The combination of professional guides, breathtaking views, and a rare chance to step onto a glacier makes it well worth considering—despite the price tag.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The total experience lasts about one hour, including transportation to and from the glacier lodge, the flight, and the glacier stop.

Is transportation provided from Anchorage?
Transfers are available for purchase. The main meeting point is at Alaska Glacier Lodge, about an hour’s drive north of Anchorage.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended. Layers help because temperatures can vary, especially on the glacier. Sunglasses are also advised.

Can I bring a camera?
Absolutely. The views are spectacular, so bring your camera or smartphone for photos of glaciers, crevasses, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The reviews suggest it’s best for older children or teens comfortable with heights and cold conditions. Check with the tour operator about age restrictions.

What if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather-dependent. You might need to reschedule if conditions aren’t suitable, so flexible planning is a good idea.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the 30-minute helicopter flight, glacier landing, and permit fees. Food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not included.

How safe is the tour?
Guides and pilots are experienced professionals. Safety is a top priority, and reviews mention feeling secure throughout the experience.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets, smoking, drones, and open-toed shoes are not allowed. Bring suitable clothing and be prepared for cold temperatures on the glacier.

Can I get a full refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans or weather issues.

The Knik Glacier Helicopter Tour offers a rare and impressive way to see Alaska’s icy heart. You get to soar over stunning mountain vistas, see wild landscapes from above, and step onto a glacier that’s centuries old. Though the price might give some pause, many travelers find it a worthwhile investment in a bucket-list experience that delivers breathtaking scenery, professional guidance, and a connection to the raw power of nature.

If you’re after a genuine adventure that combines scenic flight, wildlife viewing, and the thrill of walking on ancient ice, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s best for those who appreciate natural beauty, are comfortable with heights, and want to make their Alaska visit truly memorable. Pack your sense of wonder—and your camera—and prepare for a journey you’ll never forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: