Discover the thrill of glacier swimming combined with a challenging hike in Alaska’s breathtaking scenery. This private adventure offers exclusive access to pristine glaciers and icy waters, perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good physical fitness and be comfortable with hiking and cold water exposure.
Wildlife
History
The glaciers in this region have carved the landscape over thousands of years, reflecting the area's dynamic geological history.
Conservation
Alaska Helicopter Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact and supporting glacier preservation efforts.
Alaska Helicopter Tours
Discover the thrill of glacier swimming combined with a challenging hike in Alaska’s breathtaking scenery. This private adventure offers exclusive access to pristine glaciers and icy waters, perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Alaska Helicopter Tours connects adventurous travelers to Alaska’s most dramatic icefields, rivers, and alpine ridgelines. Operating out of the Knik River Valley and nearby hubs, the company offers a curated selection of helicopter experiences: guided heli-hiking, glacier swim and hike trips, summer ice climbing, packrafting drops at glacier confluences, e‑mountain bike adventures, paddle boarding in glacial melt pools, winter snowshoe treks, private glacier elopements, Bear Glacier scenic flights, and one‑way transfers to Alaska Glacier Lodge.
Each trip pairs experienced pilots with professional guides who manage route planning, safety briefings, and on‑site instruction for activities such as ice climbing, packrafting, and paddle boarding. Small group sizes on many departures keep experiences intimate and allow guides to adapt pace and skill coaching to participants. Private options are available for paddle boarding, elopements, and charter flights.
Safety and environmental respect are emphasized through pre‑flight checks, dry suit use when required, and route selection that minimizes impact on fragile glacial terrain. Aircraft and ground gear are maintained to industry standards, and guides use local knowledge of weather and glacier conditions to choose safe landing sites.
Alaska Helicopter Tours caters to both active outdoor enthusiasts and travelers seeking dramatic scenic flights and memorable milestone events. The operation’s diverse itinerary, focus on expert-led outdoor instruction, and options for private or small‑group departures make it a reliable choice for experiencing Alaska’s glaciers from the air and on the ground. Guests consistently value clear communication, flexible scheduling, local expertise, reliable safety practices, and personalized guidance on every excursion.
Tours Offered
10+
Curated glacier and adventure tours.
Glacier Landings
Multiple
Land on icefields and turquoise melt pools.
Private Options
Available
Private elopements and paddle boarding sessions.
Transfers
Anchorage → Glacier Lodge
One‑way transfer logistics offered.
Reserve early for private flights, elopements, and peak-season heli adventures — dates fill fast.
Dress in layers
Temperatures on glaciers can vary widely; layering ensures you stay comfortable during hikes and swims.
Follow your guide’s instructions
Always listen carefully to safety briefings and guidance from your tour guides to ensure a safe experience.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear
Proper footwear helps with traction on icy surfaces and keeps your feet dry during the glacier swim.
Prepare for changing weather
Alaska's mountain weather can change quickly; pack rain gear and warm clothing even in summer.
Waterproof hiking boots
Keep your feet dry and provide traction on icy, uneven terrain.
Thermal base layers
Layering keeps you warm during cold hikes and glacier exposure.
winter|spring|fall
Dry bag for valuables
Protect electronics and personal items from water and moisture.
summer|fall
Cold-weather gloves and hat
Vital for maintaining body heat during chilly conditions and water activities.
winter|spring|fall