Seward: Alpine Hike and Picnic Helicopter Tour

The Seward: Alpine Hike and Picnic Helicopter Tour offers a unique way to explore Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes in just 2 hours. Operated by Seward Helicopter Tours & Turning Heads Kennel, this tour combines a scenic helicopter ride, a guided hike through remote alpine meadows, and a delightful picnic in a secluded area. With a small group size limited to 6 participants, it promises a personalized experience that emphasizes comfort and quality over crowds. The tour is perfect for those seeking a swift, immersive escape into Seward’s stunning scenery, with the added bonus of expert guides and the oldest operating helicopter company in the area.

While this tour provides a spectacular aerial view of glaciers and lakes, it’s important to be prepared for high-altitude physical activity and variable weather conditions. It doesn’t suit everyone—pregnant travelers, those with back problems, or anyone afraid of heights or vertigo will want to consider other options. However, for adventurers eager to access hard-to-reach alpine areas without strenuous uphill climbs, this experience offers an accessible and memory-making adventure.

Key Points

• Duration: Only 2 hours, perfect for a quick yet immersive activity
• Experience: Combines scenic helicopter ride, guided alpine hike, and picnic in remote Seward locations
• Small group size: Limited to 6 participants for a personalized touch
• Expertise: Led by guides from the oldest operating helicopter company in Seward
• Highlights: Stunning glacier views, alpine meadows, and beautiful lakes from the air and on foot
• Physical prep: Requires comfortable, warm clothing and readiness for high-altitude activity

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Helicopter Ride Over Seward’s Wilderness

The tour begins with a scenic helicopter flight over Seward, elevating travelers above the landscape to take in panoramic views of glaciers, lakes, and mountain ranges. The helicopter operated by Seward Helicopter Tours offers a smooth, reliable ride over some of the most impressive scenery in Alaska. These aerial views provide a unique perspective that’s impossible to achieve from the ground, setting the stage for an adventurous day.

This helicopter ride is a highlight, offering a bird’s-eye view of Seward’s rugged terrain and remote wilderness. The expert pilots ensure a safe, comfortable journey, making it suitable even for those new to helicopter flights. The flight’s duration is brief but impactful, providing ample time to marvel at the landscape before landing in a secluded alpine area.

Guided Hike Through Alpine Meadows for Intimate Nature Encounters

Following the helicopter ride, the guide leads a guided hike through pristine alpine meadows. The terrain is gentle enough for most fitness levels but offers enough variety to keep the experience engaging. The hike is set in a remote location, far from crowds, allowing for a peaceful connection with nature.

Along the way, hikers enjoy views of glaciers, lakes, and mountain peaks. The guides are knowledgeable about the local environment, sharing insights about the flora, fauna, and geological features**. This portion of the tour emphasizes a personalized, relaxed pace in a small group setting, letting participants soak in the scenery at their own comfort level.

Picnic in a Remote Mountain Setting

One of the tour’s memorable aspects is the picnic served in a quiet, scenic spot. Surrounded by Alaska’s untouched wilderness, this is an ideal opportunity to relax and savor the environment. The picnic typically includes local or simple, hearty foods, perfect for refueling after the hike.

This experience offers a calm moment amidst the adventure, allowing travelers to enjoy the serenity of the mountains. The remote setting enhances the sense of escape, making the picnic a highlight of the trip.

Operated by Seward’s Oldest Helicopter Company

The tour is conducted by Seward Helicopter Tours, the oldest operating helicopter company in Seward. This long-standing history underscores their expertise and reliability. The guides are experienced and know the best scenic and safe routes for this alpine adventure.

Their reputation for quality service and safety measures ensures a trustworthy experience, whether this is your first helicopter ride or your first guided hike in Alaska’s mountains. The company’s local knowledge helps maximize the scenic potential and accessibility of the remote locations visited.

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Small Group Experience for More Personal Attention

Limited to 6 participants, this tour offers a small-group environment that fosters personalized guidance. With fewer travelers, the guides can offer more individual attention and answer specific questions about the landscape or local environment.

This small-group format also means a less crowded, more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a more intimate adventure. It enhances the overall enjoyment of the scenic views and the hike, making the experience feel more exclusive and connected.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should wear comfortable and warm clothing suitable for alpine conditions, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. It’s wise to check weather conditions beforehand and dress in layers. Given the physical activity involved, participants should be prepared for moderate exertion.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or anyone afraid of heights or vertigo. As the experience involves a helicopter flight and high-altitude hiking, safety considerations are emphasized. Since smoking is not allowed, it’s best to come prepared with appropriate gear and an adventurous spirit.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

Booking this tour offers flexibility with a full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later, which helps plan ahead without immediate financial commitment. Checking availability is straightforward, and the tour can be scheduled at various times per day.

This flexibility makes it easier for travelers to incorporate the experience into their broader Alaska itinerary, especially given the unpredictable weather or changing plans.

How This Tour Compares to Other Seward Experiences

While many Seward tours focus on cruise-based excursions, wildlife viewing, or glacier cruises, this helicopter and alpine hike provides direct access to remote mountain scenery not typically reachable by boat or foot alone. It complements other tours by offering a more active, intimate perspective on Seward’s wilderness.

Compared to larger glacier cruises, this shorter, more personalized adventure is ideal for travelers who want a high-impact experience without spending an entire day. It’s also suitable for those who prefer small-group, guide-led excursions that focus on scenic beauty and outdoor activity.

Seward: Alpine Hike and Picnic Helicopter Tour

This 2-hour adventure in Seward, Alaska combines the thrill of a scenic helicopter flight with the serenity of a guided hike through remote alpine meadows. Led by experienced guides from the oldest helicopter company in Seward, it offers a personalized small-group experience limited to 6 participants.

The tour’s highlight is the chance to see glaciers, lakes, and mountain peaks from above, followed by a peaceful walk in untouched wilderness and a delicious picnic amid stunning surroundings. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a short, memorable escape into Alaska’s natural beauty.

While this tour emphasizes scenic vistas and easy accessibility, it requires participants to be comfortable with high-altitude activity and dress appropriately for mountain weather. Its flexible booking and cancellation policies make it a practical and appealing option for travelers wanting a high-quality, personalized adventure in Seward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is designed for participants comfortable with physical activity in high-altitude conditions. It may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear for this tour?
Wear comfortable, warm clothing suitable for alpine conditions. Layers are recommended, and check the weather forecast before the tour.

How long is the helicopter ride?
The helicopter flight offers impressive views but is relatively brief, providing a panoramic overview of Seward’s mountains, glaciers, and lakes.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the nature of helicopter riding and high-altitude hiking.

Are vegetarian or special diet options available for the picnic?
The data does not specify dietary options; consider bringing your own snacks or contacting the provider for specific requests.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What safety measures are in place?
The guides are experienced, and the helicopter operator is reputable. Safety protocols are emphasized, but specific measures are not detailed in the data.

Can I take photos during the helicopter ride?
Yes, the helicopter ride provides excellent photo opportunities of glaciers and scenic landscapes.

Is there any age restriction?
The data does not specify age limits but recommends avoiding the tour if dealing with vertigo or fear of heights.

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