Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, COMBO

Our review focuses on the Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, COMBO, a package that promises a blend of scenic flight and mountain serenity. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed descriptions, reviews, and itinerary provide a clear picture of what travelers can expect. If you’re looking for a way to see some of Alaska’s most striking landscapes without spending days on the road, this might be a worthwhile splurge.

What we appreciate about this experience is its two-in-one format—you get a quick but comprehensive flight over the area and an exclusive land on a mountaintop. That combination packs a lot of scenery into a just-over-an-hour window, offering both a grand overview and a peaceful moment high above the forested wilderness. Plus, the hassle-free pickup from the cruise dock and the small group size mean it’s designed for comfort and convenience.

A potential consideration is the cost—at $455 per person, it’s not exactly a bargain. However, given the inclusion of two distinct experiences in one tour, the value begins to look better if you’re craving that unique aerial perspective paired with a memorable mountaintop landing. This tour suits travelers who prioritize quality, exclusivity, and spectacular scenery over budget-friendly options, especially if you’re interested in wildlife spotting and aerial photography.

In essence, this helicopter combo tour appeals most to those who want an authentic, visual feast of Ketchikan’s natural beauty—fitting for first-time visitors seeking a highlight or anyone eager to capture stunning photos of Alaska’s rugged landscape.

Key Points

• Two tours in one maximize your sightseeing and value.
• You’ll see Mahoney Falls, mountain goats, and panoramic views of Canadian Rockies and Prince of Wales Island.
• The mountaintop landing provides a rare, tranquil moment with spectacular vistas.
• The tour includes pickup, making logistics simple for cruise passengers.
• It’s a small group experience (max three travelers), ensuring personalized attention.
• Weather-dependent — the experience requires good weather, with a full refund if canceled.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Start at the Ketchikan Dock and Meet the Pilot

Most tours start with a convenient pickup right at the cruise dock or Ketchikan’s Visitor’s Center, making it easy to get started without fuss. From there, you’ll board a helicopter operated by Helicopter Air Alaska, a company with a solid reputation for safety and customer service. The small group size, limited to just three travelers, helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Flight Over the Tongass National Forest

The first part of your journey takes you over the world’s largest temperate rainforest—the Tongass. We picture soaring past snow-capped mountains, with the majestic Mahoney Falls coming into view. The flight time around this area is about 30 minutes, giving you ample time to marvel at lush forests, rugged peaks, and perhaps spot some mountain goats below, as the tour promises.

Landing on the Mountaintop Helipad

The highlight for many is the 10 to 20-minute stop at an exclusive helipad perched atop a 2,000-foot mountain. Here, you’ll have a chance to step out, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy fabulous panoramic views of Canadian Rockies and Prince of Wales Island. Several reviews praise this part for its tranquility and breathtaking scenery, with one reviewer sharing how the weather was perfect on the mountain top, adding to the memorable experience.

Scenic Flight Back and Over Ketchikan

After the mountain stop, you’ll fly back over the Tongass Narrows—the waterway that connects Ketchikan to the open sea—and around the town itself. This final leg offers a chance to see the city and surrounding waterways from a perspective few visitors get on foot.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combo nature of this helicopter experience is a key selling point. By pairing a half-hour scenic flight with a mountaintop landing, it offers a comprehensive aerial tour that’s both visually stunning and uniquely private. Many reviews highlight the quality of the views, with travelers sharing that they felt they truly saw “the best of Ketchikan” from above.

The mountaintop landing is a rare feature in helicopter tours around Alaska, providing not just a photo opportunity but a moment of peaceful solitude away from crowds. The fact that this is an exclusive landing spot adds to the sense of adventure and specialness.

Authentic Encounters with Wildlife and Nature

While the tour’s primary focus is on scenery, the mention of mountain goats and the possibility of spotting wildlife adds a layer of authenticity. With Alaska’s wildlife often elusive, spotting mountain goats from above is a bonus that many passengers remember fondly.

Personalized Service and Safety

Several reviews praise the knowledgeable pilots and friendly staff, emphasizing the smooth process from booking to landing. The small group size means more personalized attention and a less hurried experience, which we believe adds significantly to the overall value.

Analyzing the Price & Value

At $455 per person, this tour isn’t cheap. But, when you consider it includes two flights and a mountaintop landing, the total experience feels more substantial than a simple helicopter ride. The quality of the views, the exclusivity of the mountain landing, and hassle-free pickup all contribute to what many consider good value for the money.

Comparing this to other Alaska helicopter tours, which can often be longer or less exclusive, this experience offers a compact, high-quality snapshot of the region’s best sights. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time yet seeking a memorable, scenic adventure.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Book ahead—most travelers book about 33 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.
• Keep your individual weight in mind, as passengers should not exceed 300 lbs.
• If you’re nervous about flying, many reviews mention the pilots’ professionalism and calming presence.
• The weather can impact the experience, so be flexible with your schedule; if canceled due to weather, a full refund is available.
• Bring your camera! The views are stunning, and the helicopter’s windows allow for excellent photo opportunities.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should inquire about access, especially for the mountaintop stop.

The Reviews: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the amazing vistas and professional staff. Caroline_T called it “worth every penny,” praising the smooth process and knowledgeable pilot. Another reviewer, Ada_M, marveled at the beautiful views and the ease of the experience—noting that the team made it simple for her and her friend.

On the flip side, a less positive review cautions travelers to double-check what tour they’re booking, as tour descriptions can be confusing online. This highlights the importance of confirming details beforehand.

The overwhelming majority of reviews are glowing, with many emphasizing the “breathtaking views,” peaceful mountain stop, and friendly service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter combo is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an iconic view of Alaska’s landscapes. It’s also perfect for photographers eager to capture the expansive scenery from above. If you’re looking for a special splurge that combines adventure with serenity, this tour will serve you well.

However, if your budget is tight or if you prefer longer tours, there might be other options. But for a short, high-impact experience packed with stunning scenery, this combo tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Ketchikan helicopter combo tour offers a rare combination of breathtaking aerial views and peaceful mountain scenery. It’s a well-designed experience that balances adventure, comfort, and authenticity—making it a top contender for travelers seeking a memorable Alaska moment. While it’s priced accordingly, the inclusion of a mountaintop landing and small group service justify the cost for those who value quality and exclusivity.

If you’re after a visually spectacular and unique experience, this tour will not disappoint. It’s best suited for those who want to see the best of Ketchikan from above, with a touch of wilderness tranquility.

FAQ

How long is the total helicopter tour?
The overall experience lasts about 1 hour, with approximately 30 minutes of flight time and a mountaintop stop of 10-20 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
Most tours begin at 1515 Tongass Ave, Ketchikan, with a pick-up service available from the cruise dock or Visitor’s Center.

Are there weight restrictions?
Yes, each passenger’s weight should not exceed 300 lbs. You’ll need to specify your individual weight when booking.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What makes this tour unique?
The mountaintop landing on a 2,000-foot mountain and the combination of two scenic flights set this experience apart from typical helicopter tours.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should check specifics, especially for the mountain stop.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In the end, the Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, COMBO is a well-rounded option that offers some of the best views and experiences Alaska has to offer—perfect for those wanting a distinctive, high-quality aerial adventure.