Anchorage: Prince William Sound Tour with Landing

If you’re dreaming of seeing Alaska’s rugged beauty from a fresh perspective, this Prince William Sound helicopter tour with glacier landing might just be your ticket. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and descriptions, it’s clear that this experience offers a thrilling blend of soaring above mountains, landing on icy wonderlands, and catching a glimpse of wildlife that makes Alaska special.

What really shines about this tour are two things: first, the chance to land on a remote glacier—something only accessible by helicopter—and second, the breathtaking views of Prince William Sound on the return flight. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the limited group size—which is great for intimacy but might mean scheduling ahead. This tour suits travelers who crave authentic wilderness encounters but are comfortable with small group adventures and a bit of altitude.

Key Points

• Unique Glacier Landing: Step onto a remote glacier for up-close ice exploration.
• Spectacular Views: Fly over the Chugach Mountains and Prince William Sound for panoramic scenery.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot moose, Dall sheep, and mountain goats from the air.
• Expert Guidance & Safety: Operated by Alpine Air Alaska with over 30 years of experience.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to three participants, enhancing intimacy.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

For anyone eager to see Alaska’s wilderness without trekking through it on foot, a 90-minute helicopter tour from Girdwood offers a compelling alternative. This tour promises a combination of aerial views, adventure on ice, and a taste of Alaska’s remote charm. We love the idea that it’s not just a sightseeing flight but an experience that gets you on the ground—literally—on a glacier, which can transform your perception of the state’s icy wilderness.

Two aspects stand out immediately. First, the landing on a remote glacier is a rare opportunity: most travelers only see glaciers from a distance or on cruise ships. Second, the return flight over Prince William Sound offers a spectacular view of pristine waters and floating icebergs, something that makes the entire journey feel like a true Alaskan adventure.

Of course, there’s a small caveat — the group size is limited to three, which might mean booking well in advance. Also, the helicopter’s weight restrictions (290 lbs per seat, with options for over 300 lbs) are worth noting if you’re travelling with larger friends or family.

This experience is perfect for those who love nature, photography, and off-the-beaten-path adventures but want a safe, guided tour that maximizes authenticity and scenery. It’s also ideal if you prefer an intimate experience over large bus tours.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Departure and First Flight

The adventure begins with a shuttle pickup from your Anchorage or Girdwood hotel. The shuttle service is included if you choose, which simplifies logistics. Once at the helicopter base, you’ll meet your pilot, who will brief you on safety and provide some context about what you’re about to see.

Starting with a climb over the lush Girdwood Valley, your pilot will navigate through the Chugach Mountains, home to some of the most rugged terrain in Alaska. Keep your camera ready—this initial flight is full of impressive views of snow-capped peaks, hanging glaciers, and possibly some wildlife like moose, Dall sheep, or mountain goats. One review highlighted how “we loved the way the pilot pointed out wildlife from the air,” which added an educational layer to the experience.

Glacier Landing

The highlight, of course, is landing on the remote glacier. With about 15-20 minutes on the ice, you’ll have ample time to step out, explore the crystalline surface, and take photos of the icy formations. The experience of standing on a massive, pristine glacier is surreal, and it’s an opportunity to see how nature has sculpted this frozen world.

Because the glacier is inaccessible by vehicle or foot alone, this landing provides a rare glimpse of Alaska’s ice environment. Several reviews mention how “it felt like we had the entire glacier to ourselves,” emphasizing the quiet, untouched atmosphere.

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The Return Flight over Prince William Sound

After the glacier visit, the return leg offers an extended flight over Prince William Sound. Here, you’ll get incredible views of tidewater glaciers—massive, calving ice walls that often produce spectacular chunks of ice breaking off into the water below. Your pilot will guide you close enough to appreciate the scale and power of these glaciers, and if conditions are right, you might see a calving event.

This part of the tour is also great for wildlife spotting. While marine animals like sea otters or orcas are not guaranteed, you might see them below on a clear day. The views of pristine waters, floating ice, and rugged islands will leave you with memorable images of Alaska’s wild coast.

Logistics and Safety

Operated by Alpine Air Alaska, the tour company emphasizes safety and expertise, with over 30 years of experience. Their Robinson R44 helicopters seat three passengers, ensuring a cozy, personal experience. The company’s safety record reassures travelers, and their focus on proper weight distribution ensures safe flights.

Note that roundtrip shuttles from Anchorage aren’t included but can be booked for an additional fee. The tour duration of about 1.5 hours includes all flying, landing, and sightseeing time, making it a manageable but memorable outing.

The Cost and Value

The price of this tour is an important consideration. While the exact figure isn’t listed here, evaluating its value involves recognizing the unique opportunity to land on a glacier and fly over some of Alaska’s most scenic areas. The small group size and expert guides add to the premium nature of the experience but also justify a higher price point compared to larger-scale tours.

Given that most of the experience is about personalized adventure and extraordinary views, many travelers find it worth the cost. The fact that you’re getting a safety-focused, experienced operator and a chance to walk on ice makes it stand out from generic helicopter rides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventure-minded travelers who want more than just a scenic flight. If you’re comfortable with small groups, want to experience Alaska’s glaciers up close, and cherish authentic wilderness moments, this will resonate.

It’s also great for photographers eager to capture glaciers and mountain panoramas from a unique vantage point. Nature lovers who enjoy spotting wildlife from the sky will appreciate the opportunity to see moose, sheep, and goats in their natural habitat.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those concerned about weight restrictions should check with the operator beforehand. Also, those prone to motion sickness might want to consider their comfort level with helicopter travel, though the Robinson R44 is generally smooth and stable.

The Sum Up

For anyone seeking a personalized, scenic, and adventurous way to experience Alaska’s stunning landscape, this helicopter tour offers a lot. You get the thrill of flight, the excitement of glacier landing, and spectacular views of Prince William Sound—all in under two hours. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, and the focus on safety provides peace of mind.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic encounters with nature and want to avoid crowds. Whether you’re a photographer, a wildlife enthusiast, or just looking for a memorable adventure, this tour promises a once-in-a-lifetime view of Alaska’s icy wilderness.

If you’re after a unique, high-value experience that combines excitement and natural beauty, this flight from Girdwood could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation from Anchorage included?
Not automatically. The shuttle service from Anchorage or Girdwood can be booked for an extra fee, so check with the operator ahead of time.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including flight time, glacier landing, and scenic return flight.

What is the group size?
Limited to three participants, providing an intimate experience, with the possibility of flying in multiple helicopters if traveling with larger groups.

Are there weight restrictions?
Yes, each seat has a 290 lbs weight limit; for guests over 300 lbs, contact the office for options. The total helicopter weight limit is 600 lbs for three passengers.

What kind of helicopter is used?
The tour operates a fleet of Robinson R44 helicopters, known for their safety and reliability.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the experience suitable for everyone?
It’s best suited for those comfortable with helicopter rides, small groups, and quick outdoor adventures. Wheelchair accessibility is available, but specific needs should be confirmed beforehand.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Landing on a remote glacier and flying over Prince William Sound are the most memorable parts, offering a truly distinctive perspective of Alaska’s wilderness.

This helicopter adventure combines adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic wilderness in a way that few other Alaska experiences can match. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling day out or a special memory to mark your trip, it offers a memorable way to see the Last Frontier from a vantage point only a helicopter can provide.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby