Seward Helicopter Alpine Hike and Picnic: Scenic Flight, Short Hike, Mountain Lunch

Seward•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

5 hours

Fitness Level

Good general fitness; able to hike 1–3 miles over uneven terrain with short steep sections

Overview

A quick helicopter hop above Resurrection Bay drops you into alpine meadows for a short hike and picnic, offering glacier-sculpted views without a full-day climb. Small groups and local pilots make this a high-elevation, low-fuss way to taste the Kenai Mountains.

Seward Helicopter Alpine Hike and Picnic: Scenic Flight, Short Hike, Mountain Lunch

Other

Air Tour

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

You feel the rotors wobble into life and Resurrection Bay slips away beneath you—blue water cutting a bright line between mountains. In under 15 minutes the helicopter sets you down on a rocky shoulder above tree line: wind has opinions here and the ridgeline invites you forward. This is not a long mountaineer’s slog; it’s a focused alpine interlude—five hours of flight, a guided 1–3 mile hike across tundra and talus, and a picnic that tastes better because you earned every view.

Adventure Photos

Seward Helicopter Alpine Hike and Picnic: Scenic Flight, Short Hike, Mountain Lunch photo 1

Adventure Tips

Arrive early for weight and safety checks

Plan to be at the office 20–30 minutes before departure; the operator requires weights for load balancing and a short safety briefing.

Layer for rapidly changing conditions

Bring a windproof shell and insulating mid-layer—sun and brisk wind often alternate within minutes.

Wear sturdy footwear

Expect loose rock and wet meadows; ankle-supporting hiking boots improve stability and comfort.

Hydrate and bring sunscreen

High-alpine sun is strong; carry at least 1 L of water and SPF even on overcast days.

Local Insights

Wildlife

marmot
bald eagle

History

Seward grew as a port and rail terminus; the Kenai coastline was used for millennia by the Sugpiaq (Alutiiq) people who read the rhythms of sea and mountain.

Conservation

Helicopter access concentrates visitor impact—stay on durable ground, pack out trash, and follow guide instructions to protect fragile alpine vegetation.