Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour + Lower Glacier Landing – ANCHORAGE AREA

Explore Alaska’s Unique Glacier Adventure with Helicopter, Dogsled, and Glacier Landing

This helicopter glacier dogsled tour offers a rare combination of aerial views and hands-on experiences in Alaska. For $822.97 per person, travelers enjoy a 2-hour adventure that includes a 30-minute helicopter flight, guided glacier walk, and dogsled ride, all starting at the Alaska Glacier Lodge near Palmer. This tour is particularly appealing for those who want a multi-activity experience in a short timeframe, with small groups capped at nine participants ensuring an intimate atmosphere.

What sets this tour apart is the chance to see Alaskan glaciers from above and below, with waterproof overboots provided for the glacier walk. The dogsled experience adds a personal touch, connecting visitors with the famous Alaskan sled dogs and their team. While the price is high, most reviews highlight the world-class views and friendly guides that make it a worthwhile investment. Be prepared for outdoor weather conditions, and note that round-trip transportation can be added for convenience.

Key Points

• Price of $822.97 per person for a comprehensive 2-hour tour
• Includes helicopter flight, glacier walk, and dogsled ride in one experience
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds
• The tour departs from and returns to Alaska Glacier Lodge near Palmer
• Waterproof overboots are provided, but come prepared with rain gear and layers
• Most travelers book this 97 days in advance, indicating high demand

Starting Point at the Alaska Glacier Lodge in Palmer

The tour begins at the Alaska Glacier Lodge located at 29979 E Knik River Rd, Palmer, AK 99645. After check-in, travelers are ready for a 30-minute helicopter flightseeing that delivers breathtaking views of glaciers, icebergs, and crevasses. The meeting point is straightforward, and round-trip transportation can be added for those who prefer not to drive.

The lodge’s high-altitude setting on a snow-covered glacier offers an impressive backdrop for the next activities. The tour is designed to maximize the scenery and adventure within a concise two-hour window, making it a practical choice for those with limited time.

The Helicopter Flight: Aerial Views of Glaciers and Icebergs

The helicopter ride is the highlight and is praised for its professional pilots and spectacular views. Most flights are operated using Robinson 44s or ASTAR helicopters, with the specific type not guaranteed unless a private helicopter option is purchased. Passengers experience a 30-minute flight that takes them over glaciers, icebergs, and floating ice.

Reviewers consistently mention how flying low over the glacier allows for excellent photo opportunities and a sense of scale and isolation of the icy terrain. This part of the tour is led by knowledgeable pilots who often have a wealth of information, making the flight both visually stunning and educational.

Guided Glacier Walk on Snow and Ice

Following the helicopter, participants don waterproof overboots provided by the tour to explore the glacier surface. The guided glacier walk offers a close-up look at crevasses, melt pools, and ice formations. Many note that the walk feels safe and accessible, with guides explaining features of the glacier in an engaging way.

Although the glacier walk is a highlight, some reviews mention that weather conditions can affect this part of the trip. Nevertheless, most find the up-close experience of walking on thick ice and hearing the cracking sounds to be unforgettable. The tour staff ensures safety standards are met, making this a memorable highlight.

Dogsledding in the Icy Wilderness

The dogsled ride is an exclusive feature not found on all glacier tours. Visitors get to drive or observe the team of Alaskan sled dogs, gaining insight into mushing techniques and dog training. Many reviewers describe this as a personalized, heartwarming experience that connects people with Alaska’s dog mushing heritage.

During the ride, guests get the chance to pet the dogs and take photos. The dog trainers and mushers are praised for their friendly, informative approach, making the experience engaging and fun. The sled ride typically takes place on snow-covered terrain, offering a contrast to the icy glacier but equally scenic.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour caters to small groups of up to nine participants, ensuring a personalized experience and fewer crowds. The activity’s max capacity of 12 travelers allows for more individual attention from guides and pilots. Round-trip transportation from select locations can be added for ease, but is not included in the base price.

Participants should be aware of the total weight limit of 450 lbs per person and a surcharge applies for those over 250 lbs to ensure safety and comfort. The tour departs from Alaska Glacier Lodge and ends back at the same location, making logistics simple for those who drive or arrange transport.

Weather and Equipment Considerations

This tour takes place on a high-altitude glacier in Alaska, meaning weather can be unpredictable. Travelers receive waterproof overboots but should come prepared with rainproof outerwear, warm layers, hats, and gloves. The tour operates most days, but poor weather can lead to cancellations, for which a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Reviewers emphasize the importance of dressing appropriately and mention that cancellations due to weather are handled professionally, with options for a different date or a full refund. Comfort surcharge applies for riders over 250 lbs, which helps ensure safety during activities.

The Expertise of the Pilots and Guides

The pilots are frequently described as professional, knowledgeable, and personable. Many reviews specifically mention Christian, Cody, Shane, Zac, Michael, and Shad as expert pilots who calm nerves and spot wildlife such as moose, bears, and mountain goats. Their expertise enhances the experience, especially during the helicopter flight.

Guides on the glacier walk and dogsledding are similarly praised for their friendly, informative manner, adding value to the trip. The small group setting allows guides to personalize explanations and answer questions thoroughly.

Views, Wildlife, and Photo Opportunities

The tour is lauded for the breathtaking scenery, including iceberg-filled lakes, creviced glaciers, and rugged snow terrain. Many reviews highlight the chance to see wildlife such as bears, mountain goats, and moose, with some tours capturing close-up wildlife sightings thanks to the pilot’s eagle eye.

Photographers especially appreciate the ability to capture vast glacier landscapes, the blue melt pools, and ice formations. The water from glacier ice can even be collected for drinking, adding a fun, tangible element to the experience.

Safety and Comfort for All Participants

Safety is a priority, with strict safety standards and well-trained guides and pilots. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most reviews noting ease of participation and high safety standards. The comfort surcharge for over 250 lbs ensures that everyone can enjoy the experience with sufficient space and safety.

Participants should be aware that drones, smoking items, firearms, and loose bags are not permitted on the tour. The high-altitude glacier environment requires appropriate clothing, and rainproof outerwear is recommended.

The Overall Experience and Who Will Appreciate It

This multi-activity Alaskan adventure offers an unmatched blend of aerial sightseeing, glacier exploration, and dog mushing. Reviewers consistently describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with stunning views and personal encounters with sled dogs and wildlife.

While the price is substantial, most agree that the quality of the guides, the scenery, and the variety of activities justify the cost. It is especially suited for those who value unique, hands-on experiences and are comfortable with outdoor weather conditions.

The Sum Up: An Exceptional Glacial Adventure Worth Considering

This Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour with Lower Glacier Landing provides a comprehensive glimpse into Alaska’s icy wilderness. The combination of aerial views, glacier walks, and dog sledding makes it a well-rounded adventure, praised for its expert guides, breathtaking scenery, and personalized group size.

It is ideal for adventurers seeking a high-quality, multi-activity experience. Be prepared for weather variability and dress warmly, but rest assured that the professional pilots and guides work diligently to ensure a safe and memorable outing. While the cost is high, the quality of this tour is reflected in the rave reviews and the rare opportunity to engage with Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife up close.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The helicopter flight, guided glacier walk, dogsled ride, all fees and taxes, and waterproof overboots are included in the $822.97 price.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 2 hours, with 30 minutes of flight time.

Where does the tour depart from and end?
It departs from and ends back at the Alaska Glacier Lodge near Palmer.

Are transportation options available?
Yes, round-trip transportation can be added for an additional fee.

Is there a safety weight limit?
Yes, the total weight per passenger is 450 lbs, with a surcharge for those over 250 lbs.

What should I wear?
Come prepared with rainproof outerwear, warm layers, hats, and gloves, as the environment can be wet and cold.

Can I cancel if weather is poor?
Yes, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or rescheduling is provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable for a wide range of ages, but individual physical conditions should be considered, especially for the glacier walk.

How are wildlife sightings handled?
Pilots often have an eye for spotting bears, moose, and mountain goats, and some wildlife can be seen during the flight or on the glacier.

What makes this tour stand out?
The multi-activity combination and small group size create a personal, memorable experience that pairs spectacular scenery with hands-on adventure.