Take to the skies above Juneau’s Tongass National Forest on a helicopter tour that lands on a living glacier. Witness towering icefields, sip pristine glacial water, and capture breathtaking views on this accessible Alaska adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be able to stand and walk on uneven terrain for approximately 30 minutes.
Wildlife
History
The Juneau Icefield, established as a scientific research area, has shaped regional hydrology and climate studies since the 1940s.
Conservation
NorthStar Trekking emphasizes minimal impact protocols, helping preserve the fragile glacier ecosystem through careful landing and group size limits.
NorthStar Trekking
Take to the skies above Juneau’s Tongass National Forest on a helicopter tour that lands on a living glacier. Witness towering icefields, sip pristine glacial water, and capture breathtaking views on this accessible Alaska adventure.
NorthStar Trekking is a Juneau, Alaska-based operator specializing in helicopter-access glacier adventures and guided glacier experiences. The company provides a range of tours that combine helicopter flightseeing over the Juneau Icefield and Tongass National Forest with on-ice activities such as guided glacier walks, ice climbing, and dog sledding. Several tours include glacier landings and opportunities to sip pure glacial water from azure pools.
Trip offerings include the Juneau Glacier Dog Sled Adventure, which pairs a scenic helicopter ride with dog sledding led by Iditarod racers; the Taku Glacier Helicopter & Airboat Adventure, featuring a helicopter flight over the Juneau Icefield and an airboat approach to the Taku Glacier; and a variety of helicopter glacier treks and walkabouts with guided on-ice time. The Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour focuses on vertical glacier walls at Mendenhall Glacier and includes instruction in climbing techniques.
NorthStar Trekking emphasizes guided, on-glacier activities led by trained staff, combining aviation access with safe, educational experiences on remote ice. Tours range from short glacier landings and hour-long guided walks to extended treks and technical ice climbing options. All descriptions reference operations from Juneau, AK and direct access to the Juneau Icefield, Mendenhall Glacier, Taku Glacier, and surrounding Tongass National Forest. Prospective guests can review specific trip summaries for duration and activity details before booking.
Location
Juneau, AK
Gateway to the Juneau Icefield
Tours Offered
8 Tours
Helicopter, dog sled, airboat, ice climbing
Glacier Landings
Included on select tours
Land on pristine glacier surfaces
Dog Sledding
Iditarod racer guides
Musher-led glacier sled experiences
Check availability and book NorthStar Trekking helicopter tours, dog sled experiences, glacier treks, or ice climbs departing from Juneau, AK.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures on glaciers can be significantly colder than in the valley; bring windproof and insulating layers.
Footwear Matters
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as glacier overboots will be provided but only fit over proper footwear.
Stay with the Group
Follow the guide’s directions on glacier terrain to avoid crevasses and unstable surfaces.
Charge Your Camera
Prepare for exceptional photo opportunities; bring extra batteries or memory cards for your devices.
Windproof Jacket
Protects against cold, gusty conditions at altitude and on the glacier.
summer
Glacier Overboots
Provided by the company, these keep your feet insulated and provide grip on the ice.
Warm Hat
Keeps heat from escaping in cooler temperatures and wind.
spring
Camera with Extra Batteries
Ideal for capturing the ever-changing glacial landscape and dramatic vistas.