Adventure Collective
null - Seward

Bear Glacier Heli - Kayak / Half Day

Sewardmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4–5 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic physical fitness and comfort paddling in calm waters.

Overview

Discover the thrill of kayaking near Bear Glacier with stunning helicopter views in this half-day adventure. Perfect for adventure seekers looking to combine aerial sightseeing with serene paddling in Alaska’s wild terrain.

Seward, Alaska

Bear Glacier Heli - Kayak / Half Day

3 to 4 Hours • Ages 10+ • Difficulty Rating: Easy

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About This Adventure

​Bear Glacier Adventure is a Heli-kayaking trip in a fresh water glacial lagoon filled with larger-than-life icebergs beginning with a flight over pristine, untouched Alaska - providing a truly "off-the-grid" adventure!

Duration

3 - 4 Hours

About

Bear Glacier is the largest glacier within the Kenai Fjords National Park and as it is ever-changing, never disappointing. We have the longest continuous guiding experience in Bear Glacier, unmatched by any other company in Seward, Alaska as well as a great safety record providing trips in remote Alaska for our many years.

Transport by Helicopter provides more paddle time than jet boats and water taxis and is much more reliable, comfortable and safer. The views during this flight are unmatched! We originally tried the water taxi and jet boat options and decided discontinue those due to comfort, safety of our guests. Because of those reasons and also access issues we determined that the helicopter was the best way to access this remote area. Helicopters are Robinson R-44 four passenger helicopters which are the work horse of the tourism businesses here in Alaska

About the Helicopter Flight: This flight is one of the most scenic ways that you can do to see the diverse topography that Alaska has to offer as you transition from sea level with its temperate rain forest boreal forests to alpine above tree line to then traveling over the scree field with snow banks. Once you fly over the peaks you will descend down into a beautiful glacial lagoon where you will fly above the immense icebergs providing a rare view of the ice and its ice shelf that extends our beneath the water level creating a beautiful sight you will then land at our Bear Glacier Base Camp that offers an in your face view of Bear Glacier which is the Kenai Fjords National Parks largest glacier. Often we see the local mountain goats, bears and sometimes even wolverine as we fly over these rugged areas.

About the Kayaking Adventure: This paddle is like no other that you will find in this part of Alaska. You will with your guide paddle from our base camp where we cache the stable tandem kayaks which we use to paddle in this iceberg laden area. The icebergs can be beautiful but also can be very unpredictable and hazardous due to their movements. Your guide will lead you through this area providing glacial interpretation and travel routes as you paddle and view these beautiful icebergs.

Often we see harbor seals, many different birds, waterfowl and bears as we paddle around the lagoon.

More Info

  • Rated: Easy
  • Ages 12+

What's Included

  • Scenic Helicopter flight
  • Hot drinks
  • Snacks
  • Dry bag
  • Rain Boots
  • Rain Jacket & Pants
  • Kayaking gear!

What to Bring

  • Layer up!
  • Water-resistant/waterproof shoes & warm socks
  • Activewear made of synthetic & water-wicking materials​
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Rain Jacket & Pants if you have your own
  • Please, no cotton or denim
  • Your Camera!

Adventure Tips

Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear

Weather in Alaska can change quickly; layering helps you stay comfortable and dry during your kayaking trip.

Book in advance during summer months

This popular tour fills up fast, so secure your spot ahead of time to avoid missing out.

Listen carefully to safety instructions

Guides will review essential safety protocols, especially since kayaking near glaciers involves cold waters and rugged terrain.

Bring your camera or smartphone with waterproof protection

Capture stunning views of glaciers, ice formations, and the surrounding landscapes without worry of water damage.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • sea otters
  • bald eagles

History

The area around Seward has a rich maritime history, once serving as a key port for Alaskan fisheries and exploration.

Conservation

The tour promotes environmentally responsible practices, including minimal disturbance to wildlife and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

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Adventure Hotspots in Seward

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof jacket

Essential

Keeps you dry and comfortable during unexpected splashes or rain.

summer|fall|winter|null specific

Wetsuit or thermal layers

Provides extra insulation against cold water and air temperatures.

winter specific

Sturdy waterproof shoes

Essential

Supports your feet on uneven terrain and helps keep your feet dry.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Sunscreen and sunglasses

Protects against UV rays reflected by ice and water surfaces.

summer specific