Anchorage: Prince William Sound Tour with Landing

If you’re dreaming of witnessing Alaska’s rugged beauty firsthand, a helicopter tour over the Chugach Mountains and Prince William Sound might just be your perfect adventure. This 90-minute journey, offered by Alpine Air Alaska, combines breathtaking aerial views with an unforgettable landing on a remote glacier. Imagine stepping out onto shimmering ice, surrounded by towering peaks and cascading glaciers, then flying over pristine waters teeming with marine life.

We love that this experience offers a rare chance to see Alaska’s wild side from above—spotting moose, Dall sheep, and mountain goats from the air, and getting up close to a tidewater glacier only accessible by helicopter. It’s an epic way to connect with nature’s grandeur in a compact, well-paced tour. On the downside, the tour’s 1.5-hour duration means it’s a quick taste rather than an all-day expedition, so if you’re craving more time on the ice or water, you might need to consider additional tours.

This adventure suits travelers who are comfortable with heights and looking for a personalized experience—small group sizes mean you’ll get plenty of attention from your pilot. It’s particularly ideal for those who want a mix of scenic flight and hands-on glacier exploration—a perfect blend of excitement and awe.

Key Points

• Unique Glacier Landing: Step onto a remote glacier and explore the ice up close—an experience that’s both exhilarating and serene.
• Wildlife Viewing: From above, you might see moose, Dall sheep, and mountain goats, adding an animal dimension to your adventure.
• Access to Remote Areas: Only by helicopter can you reach certain glaciers and tidewater glaciers for unforgettable views.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to three passengers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate tour.
• Safety & Experience: Alpine Air Alaska boasts over 30 years of experience and a strong safety record.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Optional shuttle service from Anchorage or Girdwood makes logistics easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: From Girdwood to Glaciers and Prince William Sound

The tour begins with a lift-off from Girdwood, a charming mountain town just outside Anchorage. Your pilot, an experienced local, guides you through the lush Girdwood Valley, offering your first glimpses of the Chugach Mountains. As you ascend, the landscape shifts from forests and rivers to towering peaks and hanging glaciers, creating an immediate sense of entering a wild frontier.

The highlight of this segment is the landing on a remote glacier, where you’ll step out onto the ice for 15 to 20 minutes. The experience of walking on the glacier—feeling the crisp, hard ice beneath your feet—is both surreal and grounding. Your pilot will likely point out features like crevasses, seracs, and perhaps even some ice formations that are only visible from the air.

After your glacier exploration, the return flight takes you over the pristine waters of Prince William Sound. Here, your pilot will guide you close to a massive tidewater glacier, only accessible by helicopter, providing incredible views of ice calving into the sea—an act both spectacular and fleeting. Keep your camera ready: if the conditions are right, you might witness a glacier calving into the sea right before your eyes.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights from the Sky

One of the most talked-about aspects of this tour is wildlife spotting. From the vantage point high above, you can often see moose, Dall sheep, and mountain goats grazing or perched on rocky ledges. These sightings are not guaranteed, but the chances are good given the extensive wilderness below. The aerial perspective also offers unparalleled views of hanging glaciers and jagged mountain peaks—features that are impossible to appreciate fully from the ground.

The flight itself is approximately 90 minutes, but the time spent flying over the mountains, glaciers, and sound is what makes this experience so worthwhile. The gentle but exhilarating ride offers a chance to take in Alaska’s wild beauty without the physical exertion or lengthy travel.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour operates in small groups—limited to three participants—which makes for a more personal, flexible experience. You’ll be picked up from your hotel or Airbnb in Anchorage or Girdwood via shuttle (if booked), adding convenience to your adventure. The flight uses Robinson R44 helicopters, a model known for reliability and safety, with a weight limit of 290 lbs per seat—so if you’re over 300 lbs, it’s best to contact the company for options.

The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, from pickup to drop-off, including the flight time and glacier exploration. Keep in mind that weather conditions can affect visibility and glacier calving activity, so flexibility is advisable. The company offers full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now with the option to pay later, providing some peace of mind.

What We Love About This Tour

Two features stand out. First, the personalized nature of the small group—only three passengers per helicopter means you’re not just a number. The pilot can tailor the experience slightly depending on weather and wildlife activity, making the most of your time aloft. Second, the combination of aerial views and glacier landings offers a rare, immersive experience—walking on ice in a landscape that looks like a postcard.

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A Few Caveats to Keep in Mind

While the experience is truly special, it’s not suited for everyone. The 60-minute flight can be bumpy in windy conditions, and those with fear of heights or mobility issues should consider this. The tour’s duration is brief compared to larger, day-long excursions, so if you’re looking to spend more time on glaciers or in the water, you might want to supplement this tour.

Plus, cost is a factor, but when you consider the access to remote glaciers and the personalized experience, many find it to be a worthwhile investment for the memories made.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re seeking a once-in-a-lifetime view of Alaska’s glaciers and mountains, and enjoy small-group, personalized adventures, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and adventure seekers who want to see Alaska from a unique perspective without committing to a full-day trip.

This helicopter experience offers a rare peek into Alaska’s wild heart—combining scenic flight, glacier exploration, and wildlife viewing in one package. You’ll come away with stunning photos, stories of icy landscapes, and a profound appreciation for the region’s rugged beauty.

The tour’s value lies in its accessibility and intimacy. While it’s not the cheapest activity, the chance to land on a glacier and witness calving tidewater glaciers is truly priceless for those wanting a deep, authentic connection with Alaska’s natural wonders.

It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with small aircraft, want a personalized experience, and are eager to see some of Alaska’s most inaccessible sights from the air. If you’re craving an adventure that’s equal parts thrill and awe, this tour will leave a lasting impression.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including pickup, flight, glacier landing, and return.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation included?
Transportation from Anchorage or Girdwood is available as an optional shuttle service that you can book for an additional fee.

What type of helicopter is used?
The tour is operated with Robinson R44 helicopters, which seat three passengers each.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, each seat has a 290 lbs weight limit, and the combined weight of three passengers should not exceed 600 lbs. Contact the company if you have concerns over 300 lbs.

How many people are in each group?
Tours are limited to small groups of three participants, making for a more personalized experience.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

What wildlife might I see during the flight?
While not guaranteed, you might spot moose, Dall sheep, and mountain goats from the air.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and bring something warm, as it can be cold on the glacier and at higher altitudes.

This helicopter tour offers a remarkable way to see Alaska’s glaciers, mountains, and wildlife with a personal touch. Whether you’re snapping photos, seeking adventure, or simply soaking in the majesty of the landscape, it’s an experience that’s sure to stay with you long after you’ve touched down.

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