THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Book with Alaska Helicopter Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Alaska Helicopter Tours · Palmer, Alaska
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Glacier Swim & Hike near Palmer, Alaska. This private experience combines the thrill of exploring dynamic glaciers with a rewarding hike through rugged, pristine wilderness. Your journey begins with a scenic helicopter flight over the stunning Alaskan landscape, providing breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and ice fields. Upon landing at a remote glacier, you’ll have the rare opportunity to take a dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters of a glacial melt pool—an exhilarating experience unlike any other. After your refreshing swim, lace up your hiking boots to traverse ice formations, discover intricate crevasses, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains. This activity offers a perfect blend of adventure, solitude, and natural beauty, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking something extraordinary. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or looking to push your limits, this experience showcases the raw power and serene beauty of Alaska's glacial landscapes in a private setting tailored for your group. Capture stunning photos, learn about glacier formation, and create lifelong memories on this one-of-a-kind tour with Alaska Helicopter Tours.
challenging.
4–6 hours.
Participants should have good physical fitness and be comfortable with hiking and cold water exposure.
No prior experience is necessary; guides will provide full safety instructions and support throughout the adventure.
Wetsuits and dry suits are provided; wear comfortable clothes underneath for added warmth after swimming.
The glacial meltwaters typically range from 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, making the swim both exhilarating and challenging.
The private experience can be tailored for your group, typically up to 6 participants for a personalized adventure.
Light snacks and bottled water are provided; feel free to bring additional personal snacks.
Children aged 12 and older are welcome, provided they are comfortable with cold water and physical activity.
The glaciers in this region have carved the landscape over thousands of years, reflecting the area's dynamic geological history.
Alaska Helicopter Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact and supporting glacier preservation efforts.
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.
Book with Alaska Helicopter Tours