Unlock remote wilderness and glacier-bound hikes around Juneau with TEMSCO Helicopters Inc. This unique aerial access transforms ordinary trails into elevated adventures, blending challenging terrain with incredible vistas. Discover how practical planning pairs with thrilling flight to amplify your outdoor experience in Alaska’s wild frontier.
Adventure Tips
Book Your Helicopter in Advance
Summer flights are highly sought after. Secure your seat early to avoid disappointment and ensure prime weather conditions.
Pack Waterproof Layers
Alaskan weather can shift suddenly. Bring breathable, waterproof gear to stay dry and comfortable throughout your hike.
Wear Supportive Hiking Boots
Trails range from rocky riverbeds to slippery glacier edges. Boots with good ankle support and tread reduce injury risks.
Bring Hydration and Snacks
Altitude gain and physical exertion demand consistent energy and water intake. Carry at least 2 liters and high-energy food.
Elevate Your Alaskan Adventures with TEMSCO Helicopters in Juneau
Juneau, Alaska's rugged wilderness extends far beyond the edges of its trails. For those ready to advance their outdoor experience, TEMSCO Helicopters Inc. offers a gateway to the untamed with aerial access to remote landscapes, untouched glaciers, and high-elevation hikes rarely reached by foot alone. Imagine a journey starting with the hum of rotors rising above the Tongass rainforest canopy, casting a shadow over rivers that dare your gaze, pushing forward to meet the sea. From this vantage point, you’re thrust directly into a world fiercely itself — where every hike is not just a walk but a deliberate engagement with nature’s raw forces.
TEMSCO’s flights carry adventurers to trailheads inaccessible by road, cutting through dense forest and sheer mountain faces. A standout route is the helicopter drop to Herbert Glacier, a 3.5-mile round-trip hike with a 940-foot elevation gain. The trail weaves through old-growth forest that exhales cool, mossy air and skirts glacier-fed rivers that rush and glisten, challenging your pace with slippery rocks and sudden dips. Once on the glacier itself, the vast ice fields stretch stark and bright, opening panoramic views that stretch from snow-capped peaks to the distant waters of Auke Bay.
Preparation is critical. Plan for sturdy footwear with solid ankle support, waterproof layers, and enough water to stay hydrated in the crisp mountain air. The best window for these flights and hikes is late spring through early fall. Weather can change quickly, demanding respect and readiness. Opt for morning departures when visibility is generally clearer and temperatures cooler, easing your ascent and offering prime lighting for photos.
Whether you’re a casual hiker or a seasoned trekker, the combination of helicopter access and grounded exploration levels up your connection with Alaska’s wild. The environment is not a backdrop but an active participant—rivers challenge, glaciers wait quietly, and forests conceal more than paths. Every footstep is a conversation with the land. With TEMSCO Helicopters as your launchpad, you gain hours of precious wilderness time and rare perspectives that make every step worth it.
Getting started means booking early, especially in high season when flights fill fast. Know the safety protocols before takeoff, bring layers for unpredictable weather, and prepare physically for sections of uneven, steep terrain. This approach isn’t about conquering nature but moving skillfully alongside it. With the right preparation and an adventurous spirit, TEMSCO Helicopters turns Juneau’s vast wilds into your own outdoor arena. Fly up, step down, and let the adventure push you forward.
Nearby Trips
Adventures near Juneau
Discover the unique and memorable adventures that make Juneau special.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the helicopter flight last to the trailheads?
Flights typically take 15 to 30 minutes depending on the destination within the Juneau area. This quick access saves hours of travel time compared to hiking or boat travel to remote trail starts.
Are the trails to the glaciers suitable for beginners?
The glacier hikes accessed via TEMSCO can be approached by hikers with moderate experience. Trails include uneven, wet terrain and steeper segments, so basic fitness and proper footwear are necessary. Guides recommend some prior hiking experience.
What wildlife might I encounter during these hikes?
Expect to see black bears in the forest, mountain goats near higher elevations, bald eagles circling overhead, and salmon in streams. Early morning or late evening hikes increase wildlife sighting chances.
Are guided hikes available through TEMSCO Helicopters?
Yes. TEMSCO partners with local outfitters offering skilled guides knowledgeable about glacier safety, local flora and fauna, and wildlife protocols, enhancing both safety and educational value.
Can I bring a drone for aerial photography?
Drone use is heavily regulated in Alaska’s national parks and protected areas. Permits may be required, and it’s essential to follow local restrictions to avoid disturbing wildlife or other visitors.
What are the environmental considerations for helicopter-accessed hikes?
Using helicopters minimizes some trail impact but increases noise pollution and potential wildlife disturbance. Responsible operators limit flight frequency and noise. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect wilderness rules.
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Hiking Boots
Provide necessary grip and ankle support on wet and unstable terrain common in Alaska’s glacier trails.
Layered Clothing System
Allows easy adjustment to shifting temperatures and sudden weather changes, keeping you comfortable all day.
Daypack with Hydration Bladder
Keeps water accessible and stores essentials so you can stay fueled without frequent stops.
Waterproof Camera or Protective Case
Captures high-quality photos of landscapes and wildlife despite rain or spray from glacier streams.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "Hidden fjord viewpoints accessible only by helicopter overlook silent waters and rarely seen mountain peaks."
- "Secluded hot springs reachable as part of extended tours offer a thermal reward after glacier hiking."
Wildlife
- "Frequent bear activity on lower slopes in spring and fall."
- "Marine eagles hunting near glacier melt streams."
History
"Juneau’s helicopter operations originally supported mining and forestry, evolving into premier access for wilderness tourism over the last three decades."