Valdez: Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing

Imagine soaring above snow-capped peaks and vast glaciers, then stepping onto a shimmering sheet of ice. That’s what the Valdez helicopter experience with glacier landing promises—an adventure packed with stunning scenery, wildlife sights, and a real sense of the wild. This tour, offered by Alpine Air Alaska, combines a scenic helicopter flight with a chance to walk on the ice, making it a memorable highlight for those eager for a taste of Alaska’s rugged beauty.

Two things that really stand out about this experience are the professional commentary from your pilot—who makes the scenery come alive—and the unique opportunity to walk on a glacier. It’s a rare chance to see the icy wilderness on foot, even if just for a short time. That said, a possible consideration is the small group size, which means booking well in advance is a good idea if you’re traveling in peak season. This tour is perfect for travelers craving authentic outdoor adventure and those fascinated by glaciers and wildlife.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Experience a helicopter flight over expansive glaciers and mountain ranges.
• Glacier Walk: Enjoy 15-20 minutes exploring the icy landscape on foot.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for moose, bears, and mountain goats below.
• Expert Commentary: Your pilot provides insightful narration about the scenery.
• Value for Price: At $585, the tour offers a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Small Group: Limited to three participants, providing a more personalized adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour begins at the Alpine Air Alaska hangar in Girdwood, where you’ll arrive about 15 minutes early for a safety briefing. Once aboard your helicopter, the real magic begins. The aircraft is designed to give every passenger excellent views, ensuring everyone feels close enough to the landscape to truly appreciate its grandeur.

Takeoff and Scenic Flight: As the helicopter lifts off, you’ll instantly see why this region is a favorite for aerial sightseeing. The pilot’s commentary will guide you through the scenery, pointing out towering peaks, glacial formations, and perhaps even some wildlife below. The flight typically lasts around 60 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the views.

The Glacier Landing: After the flight, the helicopter lands on a glacier, where you’ll step out onto the icy surface. While only 15-20 minutes are allocated for exploring on foot, that’s enough time for a brief but memorable walk across the sparkling ice. During this time, you can marvel at the vibrant blue meltwater pools dotting the glacier—especially vivid in spring and summer—and get a sense of its scale and beauty.

Wildlife and Photography: From your vantage point on the ice, you might spot moose wandering nearby or even hear about bears, mountain goats, and Dall sheep from your pilot. The rugged terrain below is teeming with life, and the panoramic views make for stunning photos. Many reviews note how the landscape “looks like a winter wonderland” and how the blue meltwater pools shimmer in the sunlight.

Return Journey and Transfer: When the time on the glacier ends, you’re gently lifted back into the helicopter for the return flight. After landing, your driver will be ready to take you back to your Valdez accommodation, completing your memorable day in the Alaskan wilderness.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This helicopter and glacier landing combo offers a rare opportunity to see remote Alaska from the air and on the ground. We loved the way the pilot’s knowledgeable commentary added context and made the scenery more meaningful—there’s nothing quite like hearing about glaciers’ formation or wildlife habits while gazing at the landscape.

The experience of stepping onto a glacier is genuinely special. It’s a chance to stand on a part of the earth that remains largely untouched by human activity—something that’s hard to find in many parts of the world. Plus, the scenic flight itself offers some of the most breathtaking views you can get in Alaska, with expansive glaciers and mountain ranges stretching as far as the eye can see.

In terms of value, at $585 per person, this tour is a significant investment but one that many say is worth every cent for the memories and photos you’ll bring home. The small group size—limited to three participants—ensures a more intimate experience, meaning you’re likely to get more personal attention and better opportunities for photos and viewing.

One point to keep in mind is that the tour requires a minimum of two passengers to operate, so solo travelers may need to call ahead or wait for a larger group. Also, since weather conditions can influence helicopter flights, flexibility is advisable if you want to ensure the best weather for your adventure.

Practical Tips for Your Glacier Flight

• Arrive 15 minutes early for your safety briefing, crucial for a smooth experience.
• Wear layered clothing since mountain weather can be unpredictable and chilly, especially on the glacier.
• Bring your camera or smartphone—the views are incredible and you’ll want to capture them.
• Book in advance especially if traveling during peak months, as small groups fill up quickly.
• Consider your comfort with heights and cold; the glacier walk is short but can be chilly and windy.
• Gratuity isn’t included, so plan to tip your pilot and guide for their expertise.
• Check your booking policy—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adventurers eager for an authentic Alaskan experience—those who want more than just sightseeing and are open to a bit of physical activity. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers craving dramatic landscapes. Since the flight is short but intense, it suits travelers who prefer quality over quantity, valuing once-in-a-lifetime moments like walking on a glacier.

It’s also a good choice for small groups or couples seeking a more personalized, intimate adventure, thanks to the limited number of participants. If you’re traveling with family, check the age restrictions and weather considerations beforehand, as glaciers and helicopter flights can be demanding.

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Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Valdez helicopter and glacier landing experience offers a spectacular glimpse into Alaska’s icy heart. It pairs the thrill of flying with the quiet awe of walking on ice, providing a well-rounded adventure that appeals to those who want to see the wilderness in a unique way.

If you’re a traveler seeking breathtaking scenery, wildlife sightings, and a touch of adventure, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate professional guides and personalized small-group experiences. While it’s a pricier outing, the combination of aerial views and on-ice exploration makes it a memorable investment for anyone wanting to mark their trip with a true Alaskan highlight.

For anyone with a sense of adventure and a fondness for natural beauty, this tour offers a rare blend of excitement and serenity—a true highlight in the far north.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The total experience lasts about 1 hour, including the scenic flight, glacier landing, and transportation to and from Valdez.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is the Alpine Air Alaska hangar in Girdwood, AK.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a 60-minute scenic helicopter flight, glacier landing, professional pilot commentary, and round-trip transportation from any Valdez location.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour requires a minimum of two passengers for booking, and solo travelers should call ahead if the time is not booked yet.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included, so tipping your pilot and guide is customary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is recommended due to unpredictable mountain weather; bring a camera to capture the views.

Is this tour suitable for someone afraid of heights?
While the helicopter ride is brief, it involves being in a helicopter and walking on a glacier, so consider your comfort with heights and cold weather before booking.

This helicopter and glacier landing tour is a superb way to combine aerial sightseeing with a rare foot-on-the-ice experience, perfect for those looking to deepen their connection with Alaska’s wild landscape.

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