Is previous hiking experience necessary?

No previous glacier hiking experience is required, but a moderate fitness level and comfort on uneven terrain are recommended.

What is the best time of year for this tour?

Summer months offer mild weather and longer daylight, ideal for helicopter access and glacier activities.

Meals are not included, so bring snacks and water to stay energized throughout the day.

How small are the group sizes?

Tours are private or small group to provide a personalized, safe experience in remote settings.

What safety measures are in place?

Guides are trained in glacier travel and river rafting safety, and all gear meets rigorous standards.

Can this trip accommodate all ages?

Children over a certain age (usually 8+) may be allowed, but check with the operator for specific age policies.

Alaska Helicopter Hiking & Glacier Rafting Adventure

Situated in the heart of Southcentral Alaska, the Comet Heli Hiking & Rafting Tour offers an unparalleled adventure combining helicopter flight, glacier hiking, and rafting. Based in Girdwood, Alaska, this private tour launches travelers straight into the towering peaks of the Chugach and Kenai Mountains, where pristine wilderness dominates the landscape. After a dramatic 20-minute helicopter flight over jagged glaciers and snow-capped ridges, you’ll land at a remote alpine zone where a customizable hike awaits. Traverse rugged terrain atop ancient ice, with the shimmering blue ice formations of the glacier revealing their secrets beneath your feet.

After the hike, the adventure intensifies with a thrilling glacier rafting experience. Paddle through crystal-clear, icy waters formed by the melt of ancient icefields in a carefully guided raft, offering an intimate perspective on these dynamic, fragile environments. To cap off the day, guests enjoy a scenic journey aboard the Glacier Discovery Train. This relaxed ride showcases Alaska’s raw beauty through panoramic windows, winding past cascading rivers and dense spruce forests.

What makes Comet Heli Hiking & Rafting unique is the seamless blend of air, land, and water adventure in one day—an approach few other tour operators in the region offer. This trip celebrates the dramatic geological forces shaping Alaska’s landscape, from the towering mountain spines to the slow-moving glaciers. Operated from Girdwood, a gateway town famed for outdoor sports and the nearby Alyeska Resort, this experience connects travelers deeply with Alaska’s wilderness.

Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of helicopter flight, the challenge of glacier hiking, or the serenity of rafting icy waters, Comet Heli Hiking & Rafting delivers an intimate, unforgettable encounter with one of Earth’s last wild frontiers.

About Chugach Adventures

Chugach Adventures is a guided adventure operator based in Alaska that specializes in glacier, wildlife, and heli-accessible experiences across the Chugach and Kenai regions. The company offers an array of curated day trips that connect guests with glaciers, rivers, coastal vistas, and protected wildlife habitats. Signature itineraries include the Glacier Discovery Train combined with a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and a guided Grandview hike; helicopter-accessed glacier walks and private rafting trips on the 20 Mile valley; heli-hiking with customizable route options and a Glacier Discovery Train return; blue-ice kayaking paired with Grandview scenic stops; and dedicated hiking tours through Chugach National Forest's trails, including Winner Creek and Crow Pass.

Trips are designed for small groups and private bookings, emphasizing safety, expert-guided navigation of glacier terrain, and wildlife awareness. Experienced pilots and certified guides lead helicopter transfers, glacier treks, and raft excursions, while partnerships with local conservation and rail services provide access and educational context. Equipment for glacier travel, kayaking, and rafting is supplied or arranged according to trip requirements and seasonal conditions.

Chugach Adventures prioritizes responsible wildlife viewing and Leave No Trace practices to minimize impact on fragile environments. The operator provides clear pre-trip information, weather contingency plans, and options for customizable itineraries to match skill levels and interests. Travelers seeking a combination of Alaska wilderness, hands-on glacier experiences, and close wildlife encounters choose Chugach Adventures for professionally guided, memorable outdoor journeys. Booking information, seasonal availability, and safety guidelines are provided before every scheduled departure for all guests.