Anchorage: 30-min Helicopter Flightseeing Tour

Explore Alaska’s Glacier Country on a 30-Minute Helicopter Flight from Girdwood

This 30-minute helicopter flightseeing tour offered by Alpine Air Alaska takes you over some of North America’s most glacier-filled landscapes. Priced at $510 per person, it promises a compact yet immersive aerial journey into the heart of Alaska’s rugged beauty, departing from Girdwood. The tour features live pilot commentary, shared pickup and drop-off, and the chance to capture amazing photos of glaciers, mountain peaks, and wildlife.

Ideal for travelers seeking a short but visually spectacular experience, this tour provides an up-close perspective of the Alaskan wilderness. While it’s ideal for those who want a quick overview of glacier country, it’s also suitable for all ages thanks to its wheelchair accessibility and small group size. The 30-minute duration allows for a memorable adventure without taking up your entire day.

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Key Points

• Price: $510 per person for a 30-minute helicopter flight
• Location: Departure from Girdwood Airport with scenic views of glacier country
• Highlights: Glaciers, mountain peaks, wildlife, and photo opportunities
• Inclusions: Pilot commentary, shared transportation, and a scenic helicopter ride
• Group Size: Small group limited to 3 participants for personalized service
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, suitable for all ages

The Starting Point: Girdwood Airport Helipad

The tour begins at Girdwood Airport, where guests are greeted for a smooth start to their adventure. After a brief safety briefing, the helicopter lifts off, beginning a journey into Alaska’s stunning backcountry. The shared pickup service ensures convenience, with a driver calling ahead to confirm your pickup location in Anchorage or Girdwood.

This departure location offers easy access for travelers staying in nearby areas, making it a practical choice for those exploring Alaska’s southern regions. The small group size enhances the experience by allowing for more personalized attention from the pilot.

Soaring Over the Mountain Peaks and Glaciers

Once airborne, the helicopter quickly gains altitude over the beautiful mountain peaks surrounding Girdwood. You’ll pass through a 20-mile river valley as the pilot guides you through this rugged landscape. Expect to see glaciers and ice fields, with spectacular views of the icy formations and steep cliffs carved by centuries of glacial activity.

The flight’s design emphasizes photo opportunities, so keep your camera ready. The aerial perspective reveals the scale and grandeur of Alaska’s glacier country in a way that’s impossible from the ground. The pilot’s commentary sheds light on the geological features and natural history of the area, enriching your understanding of what you see.

Wildlife Watching from the Sky

A notable feature of this tour is the chance to observe local wildlife as you fly over the landscape. The helicopter’s vantage point over cliffs and valleys makes spotting roaming animals a real possibility. Although specific species are not listed, the landscape itself offers ample opportunities for wildlife sightings, adding an extra layer of excitement to the flight.

Keep an eye out for animals along the cliffs and valleys, which add a dynamic element to the scenery. This aspect of the tour appeals to those interested in nature and wildlife, providing a more comprehensive view of Alaska’s living ecosystems.

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The Scenic Route: From Girdwood to Glacier Country

The journey covers a 20-mile river valley and traverses over mountain peaks and cliffs. The route is designed to maximize visual impact, highlighting the most striking features of Alaska’s glacier landscape. The flying altitude provides sweeping vistas, with each turn revealing new panoramic views.

Every part of the flight offers photo opportunities, from towering glaciers to winding rivers. The pilot’s commentary enhances the experience, pointing out notable landmarks and sharing insights into the area’s geological and ecological significance.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Accessibility

Booking this tour is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk choice for flexible travel plans. The shared pickup from any hotel or Airbnb in Anchorage or Girdwood is included, with the driver confirming your schedule ahead of time.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs. Because each helicopter seats up to three passengers, larger groups are divided into smaller parties, often traveling in multiple aircraft for proper weight distribution. There is a weight limit of 290 lbs per seat, and a non-commissionable comfort fee applies to guests weighing between 251-290 lbs.

The Helicopter Experience: Comfort and Safety

The helicopter used for this trip is designed for safety and comfort, with seating for three passengers to ensure an intimate experience. The pilot leads the journey with live commentary, ensuring passengers are engaged and informed throughout.

The duration of 30 minutes strikes a balance between a comprehensive scenic flight and a manageable timeframe for most travelers. The experience provides unbeatable photo opportunities in a small group setting, making it ideal for those who want an intimate and memorable aerial adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This short helicopter flight is perfect for those seeking a quick but impactful way to see Alaska’s glacier country. It suits travelers interested in nature and photography, as well as families and individuals who appreciate scenic aerial views. The small group format and live pilot commentary offer a personalized experience, while the accessible design makes it suitable for a wide range of guests.

However, those with weight considerations or who prefer longer tours might want to explore other options. Since the tour departs from Girdwood with a $5 surcharge for hotel pickups in Girdwood, planning accordingly ensures a smooth experience.

Final Thoughts on the Girdwood Helicopter Flightseeing Tour

This 30-minute helicopter tour provides beautiful vistas of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, making it an excellent choice for a short but breathtaking Alaskan adventure. The live commentary adds educational value, and the photo opportunities are unmatched from this vantage point.

While it’s a compact experience, the focus on quality views and personalized service makes it worthwhile for travelers wanting a quick aerial overview of the region. It’s especially appealing for those who prioritize scenic beauty and comfort in their Alaska excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts for 30 minutes, providing a condensed yet memorable aerial view of glacier country.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $510 per person, including pilot commentary and shared transportation.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Girdwood Airport, with shared pickup from hotels or Airbnbs in Anchorage or Girdwood.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs.

How many passengers are in each helicopter?
Each helicopter seats up to three passengers, ensuring a small group experience.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, each passenger must weigh no more than 290 lbs, and the total weight should not exceed 600 lbs for safety reasons.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes shared pickup and drop-off, the helicopter flight, and pilot commentary.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a surcharge for Girdwood hotel pickups?
Yes, there is a $5 per person fee for hotel or Airbnb pickups within Girdwood.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Alpine Air Alaska, known for scenic helicopter flights in the area.

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