Fly from Anchorage into the Chugach Range and step into winter ice caves carved at the toe of Knik Glacier. This helicopter landing offers extended flight time, glacier views, and a guided, low-impact ice cave exploration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Snow-quiet air presses against the helicopter’s doors as you descend into the Knik River Valley, mountains sliding into view like folded paper. The rotors throw up a fan of powder; below, a scar of blue ice and carved caverns waits. You step from the skids onto ancient glacial ice and move into a world of glassy tunnels and teal light—cold that feels sharp and clean, sound swallowed by the cave’s vault.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—able to climb in/out of helicopter, stand and walk short distances on uneven icy surfaces.
Wildlife
History
Knik Glacier and the Knik River corridor have long been part of Dena'ina territory; 20th-century aviation opened remote access and tourism around mid-century.
Conservation
Operators follow strict safety and low-impact guidelines to protect fragile glacial features; visitors should avoid touching cave walls and obey guide instructions to limit erosion and disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Winter Ice Cave Helicopter Adventure-2 Landing-Anchorage Area today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for variable cold
Pair a moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell—temperatures on the glacier and inside caves are significantly colder than in town.
Protect your eyes
Wear sunglasses or snow goggles to reduce glare from reflective ice and improve visibility inside the cave.
Sturdy footwear with traction
Insulated, waterproof boots with good tread or removable crampons will help you walk safely on uneven, icy surfaces.
Charge camera batteries beforehand
Cold drains batteries quickly—bring spares in an inner pocket and limit exposure when not shooting.
Insulated winter jacket
Keeps core warm during cold ground time and when winds blow around the landing site.
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Waterproof winter boots
Provide traction and warmth for walking on glacier ice and snow-covered approaches.
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Polarized sunglasses or snow goggles
Reduce glare from reflective ice and protect eyes inside bright caves.
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Spare camera batteries in inner pocket
Cold rapidly drains batteries—warm spares improve photo opportunities.
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