Experience Alaska's pristine wilderness from above and on foot with a heli-hiking adventure near Palmer. Soar over glaciers and land in untouched alpine terrain for a personalized exploration like no other.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in average physical condition, able to handle some walking and uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
The Palmer area has a rich history of gold rush-era settlements and indigenous heritage, which modern guides often share during trips.
Conservation
Alaska Helicopter Tours emphasizes responsible tourism, reducing environmental impact by minimizing land disturbance and adhering to principles of sustainable travel.
Alaska Helicopter Tours
Experience Alaska's pristine wilderness from above and on foot with a heli-hiking adventure near Palmer. Soar over glaciers and land in untouched alpine terrain for a personalized exploration like no other.
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 can change quickly in the high alpine, so wear moisture-wicking base layers and bring a warm outer layer.
Bring a Camera
The scenery offers spectacular photo opportunities—protect your gear from the cold and wind.
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, as physical activity at altitude can be dehydrating.
Follow Guide Instructions
For your safety and the preservation of the environment, adhere closely to your guide’s advice during the hike.
Insulated Jacket
Provides necessary warmth during high-altitude stops where temperatures drop quickly.
winter
Hiking Boots
Supportive, waterproof footwear is crucial for uneven terrain on the ground.
Weatherproof Pants
Protects against wind, rain, and snow while hiking in rugged terrain.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses to shield against high-altitude UV exposure.
summer