See Alaska’s Glaciers by Helicopter — Land, Hike, Swim, and Celebrate

Alaska Helicopter Tours — Glacier Flights, Heli Hiking, and Adventure Trips

Alaska Helicopter Tours specializes in scenic glacier flights, high‑alpine heli hiking, glacier landings, and guided adventure experiences across South Central Alaska. From the Knik River Valley to Bear Glacier and Kachemak Bay, the operation offers helicopter access to remote icefields, turquoise melt pools, and secluded beaches. Popular trips include e‑mountain bike heli rides, private glacier paddle boarding, winter snowshoe adventures, packrafting drop‑offs, summer glacier ice climbing, glacier swim and hike excursions, and intimate elopement flights.

Why choose Alaska Helicopter Tours?

The company focuses on expert‑led outdoor instruction, personalized itineraries, and safe aircraft operations. Experienced pilots and field guides manage route planning, pre‑flight briefings, and on‑site coaching for activities such as ice climbing, packrafting, and paddle boarding. Small group departures and private options allow flexible pacing for skill levels and celebratory events. Transfers to Alaska Glacier Lodge from Anchorage provide convenient one‑way logistics for multi‑day stays.

Signature experiences

• Helicopter E‑Mountain Bike Adventure: half‑day flight and guided e‑bike exploration with picnic lunch.
• Glacier Paddle Boarding (Private): dry suits and guided sessions in Knik Glacier Pools.
• Glacier Elopement Package: private flight, officiated ceremony option, champagne and dessert add‑ons.
• Heli Packrafting: helicopter drop at a three‑glacier confluence followed by tranquil Class I floats.
• Bear Glacier Tour: 60‑minute scenic flight with turquoise lake landing.
• Summer Glacier Ice Climbing and Glacier Swim & Hike: active programs for beginners and experienced climbers.

Practical details for travelers: most departures originate from Knik River Valley or Homer for Kachemak Bay flights. Guests should dress in layers, bring waterproof boots when required, and follow guide safety instructions. Dry suits and technical gear are provided when necessary for water activities and ice climbing.

Safety and stewardship

Safety and stewardship are priorities. Aircraft receive routine maintenance and pilots use local weather expertise to select safe routes and landing sites. Guides conduct safety briefings and provide instruction tailored to experience levels. The operation balances adventurous access with respect for fragile glacial environments to minimize impact.

Photographers and filmmakers value the variable light and access to crevassed ice, turquoise pools, and coastal fjords. Guides position landings and hiking routes to maximize photographic opportunities while maintaining safety. For wildlife viewing, employees monitor local wildlife presence and adjust itineraries to avoid disturbance while offering strong chances to see birds, seals, and occasional bears from a safe distance.

What to pack: layered clothing, waterproof outerwear, warm gloves, sunglasses, and a camera with extra batteries. For water activities, bring a swimsuit and quick‑dry underlayers; guides supply technical gear such as dry suits, helmets, and ropes when necessary. Most flights include a safety briefing and demonstration of equipment before departure.

Custom charters and group bookings are available for photographers, film crews, corporate retreats, and special events. Wedding parties can combine private flights with elopement packages that include ceremony options, celebratory extras, and flexible timing. Transfer logistics to and from Anchorage and the Alaska Glacier Lodge simplify multi‑day itineraries and make remote glacier access possible without self‑drive planning.

Frequently asked questions address weight limits, cancellation policies, age restrictions for minors, and accessibility concerns. Prospective guests should contact reservations for current policies, exact flight durations, and seasonal availability. Early reservations are recommended during peak summer months to secure preferred dates and private options.

Contact the reservations team to plan routes, dates, and specialized glacier experiences.