Ride a helicopter to ice‑carved pools on Knik Glacier, don a drysuit and paddle across ancient glacial water on a private 3.5‑hour adventure. Expect close instruction, cold water immersion practice, and uninterrupted alpine scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The helicopter settles on a blue‑white shelf and the rotor wash clears a dusting of pulverized ice. You step out into air that tastes like metal and rain; the drysuit seals around your neck and the guide explains leash and re‑entry while the glacier pools below dare you to move. Moments later, feet on board and paddle in hand, the lake accepts you, the water so clear it tricks the eye into believing it’s shallow until the cold reminds you otherwise.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — able to move in uneven icy terrain, follow safety instruction, and handle brief cold water immersion.
Wildlife
History
Knik Glacier and the surrounding valleys were shaped by repeated glacial cycles; the corridor has long been part of Alaska Native travel and subsistence routes and later drew aviators and explorers.
Conservation
Glaciers here are retreating with climate change; operators follow strict leave‑no‑trace and safety protocols to minimize footprint and educate guests on preservation.
Reserve your spot on the Helicopter and Glacier Paddle Boarding -PRIVATE today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Check in early
Arrive one hour before departure for gear fitting and safety briefing—late arrival can shorten or cancel your flight time.
Dress in layers
Wear warm, moisture‑wicking base layers plus an insulating midlayer; bring a waterproof outer shell for the helicopter and windy glacier margins.
Prepare for cold water
You’ll wear a drysuit and PFD, but cold immersion is still possible—practice re‑entry on shore and follow the guide’s leash protocol.
Mind weight and comfort policies
Operators enforce comfort/weight limits for safety—disclose accurate weight during booking to avoid last‑minute issues.
Drysuit (provided on tour)
Keeps you dry and insulated during glacial paddling and is required for safety in freezing water.
summer
Warm base layers
Moisture‑wicking thermals and an insulating midlayer help you stay comfortable between flights and on shore.
all
Waterproof outer shell
Protects against rotor spray, wind and meltwater while boarding and exiting the helicopter.
all
Sturdy boots with traction / micro‑spikes
Required for walking on icy moraine and gravel; micro‑spikes improve grip on mixed terrain.
spring