Helicopter to a Dogsledding Experience with a Glacier Landing

Venturing into Alaska’s wild landscape, this Helicopter to a Dogsledding Experience with a Glacier Landing offers a compact, high-impact adventure. For $860.52 per person, guests enjoy a roughly 3-hour 30-minute trip packed with breathtaking aerial views, exhilarating dog sledding, and close-up glacier exploration. The tour operates with a focus on safety and comfort, providing round-trip helicopter flights, guided glacier walks, and all necessary gear like boots and raincoats. With a rating of 4.5/5 from 60 reviews and 92% recommending it, this experience appeals most to those eager to combine scenic flightseeing with hands-on Arctic activities.

While the price might seem steep, travelers often find the value in the unique combination of activities, especially given the stunning scenery and the chance to see Herbert Glacier from different perspectives. Keep in mind, weather conditions can influence availability, as the tour is dependent on clear skies for helicopter flights.

Key Points

• Includes a scenic helicopter flight over Juneau and Herbert Glacier, lasting about 25 to 30 minutes.
• Dog sledding on Herbert Glacier lasts approximately one hour with the famous mushers and their dogs.
• Glacier walk on the lower part of Herbert Glacier lasts around 20 minutes, offering remarkable close-up views of ice formations.
• All gear, including boots and raincoats, are provided, making outdoor gear straightforward for guests.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a total weight limit of 500 lbs per passenger and accessible to those with limited mobility.
• Weather-dependent: cancellations due to poor weather are possible, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Helicopter Departure from Coastal Helicopters in Juneau

This tour begins at the Coastal Helicopters facility in Juneau, with guided transportation to the helicopter depot. The round-trip helicopter flight takes you from the airport directly to Herbert Glacier, providing spectacular aerial views of the Alaskan wilderness. The flight time is approximately 25 to 30 minutes, during which you’ll soar over snow-capped peaks and rugged ice fields.

Most flights operate with small groups, maxing out at six travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. The helicopter accommodates passengers weighing up to 500 lbs, and proper weight reporting is crucial to avoid delays or cancellations. The tour includes pickup and transportation from facilities, making logistics straightforward for participants.

Landing at Herbert Glacier and Meeting the Dog Sled Crew

Upon arrival at Herbert Glacier, guests are greeted by the Dog Camp Crew. They introduce the mushers and their team of sled dogs. This stop is a highlight — watching the mushers and their energetic dogs creates a lively, authentic atmosphere.

The dog sled ride lasts roughly one hour. Participants hop onto a sled pulled by the dogs, experiencing firsthand what it’s like to mush across snowy terrain. The mushers are known for being friendly and informative, eager to share their knowledge about dog sledding and life in Alaska. Many reviews highlight the bond between mushers and dogs, which truly shines during the experience.

After the ride, visitors can meet the puppies and learn about the training and care involved in dog mushing. The whole process feels genuine and well-organized, offering an engaging look at this traditional Alaskan activity.

Exploring the Lower Herbert Glacier and Ice Formations

Following the dog sledding, the helicopter returns to land on the lower portion of Herbert Glacier. Here, guests walk around and explore the exposed glacier ice for about 20 minutes. This stop provides remarkable close-up views of the glacier’s surface, with opportunities to observe ice formations and possibly drink from icy streams fed directly from the glacier.

This part of the tour is a favorite for those eager to get a sense of the terrain and capture stunning photos. The guided glacier walk is designed to be safe and accessible, and the guides make sure everyone is comfortable and informed about the glacier’s features.

Helicopter Tour Over Juneau Icefield on Return Flight

On the way back to the Coastal Helicopters base, the helicopter tours over the Juneau Icefield. This additional 13-minute flight segment offers panoramic views of the icefield and Herbert Glacier from above, completing the scenic journey.

The Juneau Icefield is one of the most striking features in the region, with vast ice sheets and rugged mountain peaks. This aerial perspective highlights the scale and beauty of Alaska’s glacial landscape, often described as breathtaking by past participants.

Included Gear and Practical Tips for Participants

The tour includes boots and raincoats to prepare guests for outdoor activities in cold or wet conditions. Participants are advised to dress warmly in layers and wear rubber-soled shoes like hiking boots or athletic shoes. Remember to bring a camera, binoculars, and plenty of film or memory cards to capture the scenery.

Since the tour involves walking on glaciers and outdoor activities, comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing enhances the experience. The tour provider also emphasizes that most travelers can participate, with the main restrictions being weight limits and mobility considerations.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The total weight per passenger cannot exceed 500 lbs, and proper weight reporting is necessary to ensure safety and efficient operation. The tour is generally suitable for most participants, but limited mobility should be communicated in advance to accommodate specific needs.

Lap children are not allowed, and each guest must purchase a full fare ticket. The small group size of up to six travelers helps maintain comfort and safety standards. The tour staff are attentive to special needs and aim to make the experience as accessible as possible.

Flexibility and Weather Conditions

This experience is subject to favorable weather. If weather conditions prevent helicopter flights, participants are offered alternative dates or full refunds. The tour is canceled if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met, but rescheduling options are available.

Participants should plan to book in advance knowing that weather can impact schedules, especially in Alaska’s unpredictable climate. The shuttle pickup is scheduled one hour prior to the listed flight time for cruise ship passengers, which helps in planning shore excursions.

Why Choose This Adventure in Juneau

This tour combines adventure, scenery, and authentic Alaskan activities into a single package. The scenic helicopter flight over Herbert Glacier and the Juneau Icefield** provides a perspective that’s impossible to get anywhere else. The dog sledding experience immerses guests in Alaska’s winter culture, with friendly mushers and energetic dogs.

Many reviews praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides and staff, as well as the stunning views from above and on the ground. This activity is particularly appealing to those interested in outdoor adventure, nature photography, or unique land and sky experiences.

While the cost may be a consideration, many find the comprehensive nature of the experience worth the investment. It’s suitable for most ages and physical abilities, making it a well-rounded choice for a memorable Alaskan day.

Juneau Glacier Dogsledding and Helicopter Tour: Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a true taste of Alaska’s wilderness — from the air to the ice, with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging activities. The combination of scenic flight, dog sledding, and glacier exploration makes it stand out from more typical excursions.

The small group size and personalized approach ensure a comfortable, intimate experience. While weather can affect plans, the tour’s flexibility in rescheduling or refunding adds peace of mind.

For adventurous travelers eager to see the glaciers and meet the dogs, this Juneau helicopter and dogsledding experience offers a rich and authentic Alaskan adventure that many describe as once-in-a-lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most children can participate, but lap children are not allowed, and each person must purchase a full fare ticket. It’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities and small aircraft.

What should I wear for the glacier walk and dog sledding?
Dress warmly in layers, with rubber-soled shoes like hiking boots or athletic shoes. The tour provides raincoats and overshoes if needed, but bringing extra warm clothing helps ensure comfort.

Can the tour be canceled due to weather?
Yes, this tour depends on good weather for helicopter flights. If canceled, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.

How many people are on each helicopter?
The maximum group size is six travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience and easier safety management.

What’s the best way to capture the scenery?
Bring a camera or binoculars to enjoy the expansive views of glaciers, icefields, and rugged mountains from above and on the ground.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Participants should be able to walk on glacier terrain and handle the outdoor conditions. The tour does have weight restrictions and may require advance communication for mobility needs.

This Juneau helicopter and dogsledding tour provides a remarkable glimpse into Alaska’s icy wilderness, combining scenic flightseeing with the thrill of dog mushing on Herbert Glacier. With stunning views, friendly guides, and authentic activities, it stands out as a memorable highlight in any Alaskan itinerary.