Fly from Juneau to a glacial lake, packraft past icebergs, then trade paddles for microspikes to explore the Norris Glacier by foot. This five-hour loop combines flightseeing, paddling, and glacier hiking with expert-guided safety.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low hum builds as the floatplane lifts from the pond outside Juneau, the inlet below opening like a high-latitude river daring you to follow it. Within minutes the world narrows to blue ice and water: icebergs bob, creeks braid into the inlet, and the Norris Glacier fields fan out, rough and bright under an Alaskan sky.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
High level of cardiovascular fitness and leg strength recommended; expect sustained paddling and uneven glacial hiking up to ~2 miles.
Wildlife
History
Taku Inlet has long been used by Tlingit communities; glaciers here shaped local travel routes and influenced settlement patterns along the coast.
Conservation
Groups travel in small sizes and guides minimize impact by avoiding fragile ice features, packing out waste, and following Leave No Trace practices to protect the glacial and marine environment.
Reserve your spot on the Norris Adventure: Seaplane, Paddle and Glacier Hike today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Know the weight limit
Floatplane capacity limits participation to 250 lbs per person—confirm weight when booking to avoid day-of issues.
Be ready to paddle
You must be able to paddle roughly 1 hour roundtrip and know how to swim; guides teach technique but expect moderate exertion.
Layer for sudden cold
Weather changes quickly—bring wicking base layers and a warm midlayer even on mild days; the operator provides rain gear.
Footwear sizing matters
Bring shoe and raingear sizes when booking; rubber boots are provided but smallest/largest sizes are limited—check ahead.
Moisture-wicking base layer
Keeps you warm when wet and is more comfortable under provided rain gear.
summer
Waterproof breathable shell
Stops wind and rain between lake, boat, and glacier exposures.
summer
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
Better on moraine and rocky approaches than standard sneakers; rubber boots will be provided for water segments.
summer
Dry bag or waterproof pouch
Protects camera, phone and extra layers during paddling and boat transfers.
summer