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Exploring the United States by helicopter offers some of the most spectacular views and memorable experiences you can have in North America. Unlike a simple plane ride, helicopter tours bring you close to untouched wilderness, towering peaks, and glaciers that look like they belong on a postcard. Alaska, in particular, stands out for its dramatic landscapes and rugged terrain, making it a favorite for helicopter adventures. These tours provide a unique perspective on Denali National Park, allowing you to see vast wilderness areas that are otherwise inaccessible.
For travelers craving a blend of aerial sightseeing and hands-on exploration, the options are plentiful. Whether you want to simply marvel at the snow-capped peaks and icy fields or combine a flight with a guided hike, you’re sure to find a helicopter experience that fits your sense of adventure. To help you choose, we’ve focused on two top-rated tours that showcase different ways to experience Alaska’s wild beauty—each offers its own kind of thrill and a chance to capture stunning photos.
1. Denali National Park: Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing
At number one on our list, the Denali National Park: Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing offers a jaw-dropping 135-minute flight that takes you high above the wilderness, ending with a landing on the Yanert Glacier. This tour is rated 4.9/5 from 57 reviews, reflecting how well travelers enjoy the experience. For around $609 per person, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Alaska Range, rugged peaks, and the sprawling tundra, all from a helicopter that offers panoramic windows for optimal photography.
What makes this tour stand out is the landing on Yanert Glacier—something few tours include. Imagine stepping out onto a vast, icy landscape with snow-capped peaks looming in the distance; it’s a moment that sticks with you. The flight itself is a scenic journey over untouched nature, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of fields of ice and rugged terrain. The helicopter flight is suitable for those who want a full, immersive experience of Alaska’s remote beauty with the added thrill of landing on a glacier.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for anyone eager for a comprehensive aerial adventure combined with a spectacular glacier landing. It’s a pricier option, but the memories of stepping onto a glacier make it worth considering.
$609 per person
2. Denali National Park: Helicopter and Hike Adventure
The Denali National Park: Helicopter and Hike Adventure is slightly shorter at five hours but packs a different punch. At $529 per person and with a rating of 4.7/5 from 7 reviews, this tour combines a scenic helicopter flight with a guided hike in the wild Alaskan backcountry. The flight offers stunning views of rolling tundra and alpine ridgelines—something that appeals to those who want both sky-high vistas and a land-based adventure.
What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to hike in a remote area outside of Denali National Park with a naturalist guide. You’ll learn about local wildlife and plant life as you trek through untouched landscapes. The helicopter ride itself provides a bird’s-eye perspective on the terrain, helping you understand the vastness of the region. During the hike, you may encounter wildlife or see native plant species, making it a well-rounded outdoor experience.
Guests love how the tour combines flight and foot exploration, describing the hike as “a chance to see the wilderness through a local’s eyes.” The trip is suited for active travelers who want to combine aerial views with the chance to stretch their legs and learn about the environment firsthand.
Bottom line: If you have about five hours and want a mix of flying and hiking, this tour offers great value and an unforgettable way to connect with Alaska’s natural beauty.
$529 per person
How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour for You
When selecting between these two options, consider your interests and physical activity level. If gliding onto a glacier and capturing stunning ice fields in photographs is your top priority, the Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing is the best fit. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a pure, immersive aerial experience with a dramatic ice landing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a broader outdoor experience that combines stunning views with a guided walk, the Helicopter and Hike Adventure offers a balanced mix of flight and land exploration. It’s perfect for those who want to learn about wildlife and native plants while enjoying great scenery.
For those on a tighter schedule or budget, consider the length of the tours, as well as your comfort with physical activity. Booking early is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure availability and better rates.
Final Thoughts
Both tours provide a remarkable way to experience Alaska’s Denali National Park from above and on the ground. The glacier landing tour stands out for its awe-inspiring ice fields and extensive flight time, making it ideal for those craving a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The helicopter and hike combo offers a more varied outdoor experience, perfect for nature lovers who also want to stretch their legs and learn about the region.
If you’re looking to take home breathtaking photos or just want to see glaciers up close, the Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing is a fantastic choice. For travelers interested in a more active exploration that combines aerial views with a guided walk, the Helicopter and Hike Adventure provides excellent value. Whichever you choose, booking early will help ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences in Alaska’s wild frontier.
