Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk

Planning a day in Juneau and craving an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with a touch of thrill? This helicopter tour with a glacier walk might just be your ticket to memorable Alaskan experiences. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the glowing reviews, detailed itineraries, and expert insights paint a vivid picture of what you can expect. It’s a high-value experience that offers a rare chance to see Juneau’s massive Icefield and Herbert Glacier from a bird’s-eye view — something you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable pilots who double as guides, sharing fascinating facts about the landscape and geology. Second, the stunning vistas of glaciers and icefalls that make every second in the air worth it. One potential consideration: the weather can be unpredictable, and if it’s stormy or too windy, your adventure could be canceled. That’s part of Alaska’s charm, and the tour’s flexible refund policy helps ease that concern.

This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventure, are comfortable with helicopter flight, and are eager to explore remote wilderness areas that are almost impossible to reach by land. It’s especially well-suited for those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a good dose of education and awe-inspiring scenery.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of the Juneau Icefield and Herbert Glacier provide a unique perspective.
• Expert pilot-guides offer insightful commentary about local geography and weather.
• Guided glacier walk allows close-up exploration of the ice, making the experience tactile and memorable.
• The overall value is high, considering the included helicopter flight, glacier walk, and transportation.
• The small group size (up to 12) ensures a more personal and flexible experience.
• Weather can affect scheduling; cancellations are possible but well-handled with rescheduling or refunds.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup from the Juneau cruise port, or an easy meet-up at a central spot. As you settle into your transport, expect friendly, informative commentary on your way to the heliport. Once there, you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing — vital for such a high-flying activity — and then it’s time to board a helicopter that takes you on an awe-inspiring flight over the Juneau Icefield.

The flight itself lasts about 27 minutes and offers panoramic views of icefalls, rock formations, and snow-capped peaks. Your pilot acts as both guide and storyteller, sharing fascinating tidbits about Alaska’s glacial geology and meteorology. You’ll probably find yourself reaching for your camera repeatedly, trying to capture the scale and serenity of these vast icy landscapes.

Once your helicopter descends onto Herbert Glacier, it’s time for the highlight: a guided walk across the glacier surface. Your pilot guides you around notable landmarks, explaining how glaciers shape the land over time. As one reviewer noted, walking on the glacier can feel surreal — a rare chance to stand amid glacial ice and snow that looks untouched and pristine.

During this stop, you might sip on fresh glacier water, admire the surreal blue hues of the ice, and soak in the silence and vastness. The guides are well-versed, eager to answer questions about the glacier’s formation, the surrounding geology, and how climate change affects these icy giants.

The return flight takes you back over the same stunning scenery, giving you a second chance to admire the Alaskan wilderness from above. The entire experience, including transport back to the cruise port, lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a well-paced, immersive adventure.

In-Depth Dive: The Itinerary

Stop 1: Coastal Helicopters
Your journey kicks off at the heliport just 15 minutes away from the cruise terminal. The quick transfer means you’re not wasting precious sightseeing time. At the heliport, safety gear and a briefing prepare you for the flight. The staff’s professionalism and clear instructions are appreciated, especially for first-time helicopter travelers.

Stop 2: Herbert Glacier
The heart of the expedition. The helicopter lands on the glacier, and you step out onto this frozen wonderland. Here, your pilot turns into a guide, pointing out notable landmarks and sharing insights about the glacier’s features. This is where the experience becomes truly tactile — walking on the ice, drinking pure glacial water, and marveling at the crystal-clear blue ice. Several reviews highlight this part as “surreal” and “breathtaking,” emphasizing how rare and special it is to be so close to a glacier in such a personal way.

Stop 3: Juneau Icefield
On your way back, the helicopter flies over the massive Juneau Icefield, offering expansive views of ice-riddled valleys and rugged mountain peaks. The aerial perspective reveals the scale and grandeur of these glaciers, a sight that remains vivid in travelers’ memories. The pilot’s commentary enriches this experience, making it more than just a sightseeing flight.

The Real Value of This Tour

At a price of around $425 per person, this isn’t your cheapest Alaska tour, but it offers exceptional value when you consider what’s included. The helicopter flight lasts about 27 minutes, and the guided glacier walk is a rare opportunity to step onto a glacier with expert guides. Many reviews praise the professionalism of the staff and the knowledgeable pilots who make safety and education a priority.

Several travelers note that the views are stunning and the guides make the experience enjoyable and educational. One reviewer mentioned, “The views are amazing and the walk on the Glacier surreal,” while another said, “The pilot was very knowledgeable and enjoyed what he was doing.” This combination of scenic beauty and expert guidance creates an experience worth the investment for those seeking more than just a sightseeing cruise.

It’s important to note that weather conditions can impact the tour — cancellations due to rain or wind are possible. But the tour company’s policies ensure flexible rescheduling or full refunds, making it less stressful to plan around the unpredictable Alaskan weather.

Practical Tips for Your Glacier Adventure

Dress warmly and in layers, as temperatures on the glacier can be chilly, even in summer. The tour company provides raincoats and overshoes, but bringing your own rubber-soled shoes and warm clothing helps you stay comfortable. Remember to bring a camera, binoculars, and perhaps a small snack — although the focus is on scenery, you’ll want to capture every moment.

Due to weight restrictions (each passenger must weigh under 500 lbs, with specific guidance for ADA accommodations), it’s wise to report accurate weights during booking. The helicopter’s small group size (up to 12 travelers) makes for a more intimate experience, but it also means that seating isn’t guaranteed to be with your entire party if weights are uneven.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviews consistently praise the professionalism of staff and the incredible views. One highlighted pilot Max as “amazing” with “great customer service,” while others shared how the walk on the glacier felt like “a once-in-a-lifetime” experience. Many mention that the ride is smooth and the scenery breathtaking, but a few reviews also remind future travelers that weather can cause cancellations, so flexibility is key.

A less positive note was from a traveler who described a rude pilot who “shortened the adventure” and behaved unprofessionally. While such experiences seem rare, they underscore the importance of choosing reputable operators and communicating your needs clearly.

The Sum Up

This helicopter and glacier walk tour in Juneau offers a rare blend of aerial spectacle and close-up exploration. It’s perfect for those seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure with educational content and stunning scenery. The professionalism of the guides and pilots, combined with the value for the price, makes it a highly recommended choice for adventure-minded travelers ready to see Alaska’s icy giants from a new perspective.

While weather remains a factor, the safety and flexibility policies help ensure a worry-free experience. If you’re looking to tick off a bucket-list item or simply want to see Juneau’s wilderness from above and below, this tour delivers on all counts. Just remember to dress warmly, be honest about weights, and keep your camera handy — you’ll want to capture every icy detail.

FAQs

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including transport, safety briefings, helicopter flight, glacier walk, and return.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the round-trip helicopter flight, guided glacier walk, transportation to and from facilities, pilot/guide, and boots and raincoats if needed.

Can I participate if I’m nervous about flying?
While helicopter flights can be intimidating at first, many travelers find the experience smooth and comfortable, especially with professional pilots. If you have mobility concerns, ADA options are available.

What should I wear during the tour?
Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof outerwear. The company provides raincoats and overshoes, but comfortable, rubber-soled shoes are recommended.

Is there a weight limit for passengers?
Yes, each passenger must weigh under 500 lbs. There are special accommodations and restrictions for guests requiring ADA lifts.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring a bag?
No, there is a no-bag policy onboard for safety reasons. Small medical needs can be accommodated if noted during booking.

How big is the group?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, which helps ensure a more personal and flexible experience.

What if my ship departs early or is delayed?
The tour company offers worry-free scheduling, including transportation to the next port if your ship departs unexpectedly or is delayed.

This helicopter and glacier walk tour in Juneau is a fantastic choice for adventure lovers eager to see icy wilderness more intimately. It combines the thrill of flying with the serenity of standing on a glacier, all guided by passionate experts. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an Alaskan veteran, it’s a surefire way to add a spectacular chapter to your journey.