Juneau: Taku Glacier Lodge 5-Glacier Flight & Feast

Juneau: Taku Glacier Lodge 5-Glacier Flight & Feast Overview

The Juneau: Taku Glacier Lodge 5-Glacier Flight & Feast offers a memorable 3-hour adventure combining scenic flightseeing with a hearty, glacier-view dining experience. Starting from Downtown Juneau at Wings Airways Floatplane Base, this tour transports you in a classic De Havilland Otter floatplane to fly over five impressive glaciers—including Norris, East Twin, West Twin, Hole-in-the-Wall, and the massive Taku Glacier.

A key highlight is the unobstructed views through every window, complemented by engaging narration via individual headsets. After touching down on the Taku River, you’ll arrive at the historic Taku Glacier Lodge, built in 1923, perched right across from Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier. The lodge serves Juneau’s only glacier-view dining, where a delicious Alaska wild salmon feast awaits, paired with baked beans, coleslaw, pioneer fruit compote, and baked goods.

The entire experience melds breathtaking scenery, a flavorful meal, and opportunities for relaxation or exploration, making this tour ideal for those keen on combining flightseeing and culture in Alaska’s wilderness. A practical choice for travelers who appreciate scenic views along with authentic local dining, though it involves some walking and may not suit those with mobility impairments.

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Key Points

• Flight from Juneau in a floatplane offers views of five glaciers including Taku Glacier.
• Every seat is a window seat, guaranteeing unobstructed views and narrated commentary.
• Historic Taku Glacier Lodge provides glacier-view dining, featuring Alaskan wild salmon and local baked goods.
• After the meal, guests can explore forest trails, relax by the hearth, or stroll on the porch.
• The tour lasts approximately 3 hours with flexible after-meal activities.
• Possible black bear sightings add a touch of wild Alaska to the experience.

Scenic Flight over Juneau’s Glaciers in a Floatplane

The tour begins with a takeoff from Juneau’s waterfront, where you board a De Havilland Otter floatplane in a small group setting. The flight offers stunning views of Norris, East Twin, West Twin, Hole-in-the-Wall, and Taku Glacier, with each glacier unfolding in shimmering cerulean and white as the plane glides above.

Thanks to every seat being a window seat and personal headsets, the narration about the glaciers’ features, such as deep crevasses and icefalls, enriches the experience. The flight duration provides ample time to enjoy these sights, with the chance to see the massive, advancing Taku Glacier up close.

This is an ideal experience for those who want a aerial perspective of Alaska’s icy landscapes without feeling rushed, thanks to the guaranteed window seats and detailed commentary.

Landing at Taku Glacier Lodge: A Historic Glacier View Dining Spot

Touching down on the Taku River, the floatplane arrives at the Taku Glacier Lodge, built in 1923. This lodge offers a unique chance to enjoy Juneau’s only glacier-view dining. The setting is peaceful, with views directly across to Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier, creating a striking backdrop for a meal.

The lodge’s ambiance combines rustic charm with history, amid the alpine hush. The aroma of alderwood-smoked wild salmon signals the start of a delicious feast. The meal features salmon grilled over an open fire, accompanied by homemade baked beans, coleslaw, pioneer fruit compote, herb biscuits, sourdough bread, and ginger cookies—all served with glacier ice-chilled drinks.

While dining, lodge staff share stories about Alaska’s past, including dog sled journeys and pioneering bush pilots. The setting is lively yet relaxed, with an authentic rustic atmosphere that captures the spirit of Alaska.

Forest Trails and Relaxation at Taku Glacier Lodge

After the meal, guests are encouraged to explore forested trails on a guided nature walk. The trails offer a chance to observe the area’s flora, fauna, and scenic vistas—an ideal way to stretch legs and savor the wilderness.

Alternatively, visitors can relax by the stone hearth with a hot drink or sit on the porch, soaking in the glacier views and listening to the silence of the Tongass. This flexibility means you can tailor your experience to your pace, whether seeking activity or tranquility.

Each activity enhances the sense of connection to Alaska’s natural environment, making the visit more than just a meal or flight—it’s an immersion into the landscape.

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Final Glance at the Glaciers: Spectacular Flyby on Return

As the tour concludes, the floatplane takes off from the lodge and retraces its route over the icefield. A final spectacular flyby of the five glaciers leaves a lasting impression of Alaska’s grandeur. The aerial views during the return trip highlight the glaciers’ deep crevasses and icefalls, offering a perfect photo opportunity.

The flight back to Juneau’s waterfront provides a quiet moment to reflect on the day’s sights, with a panoramic view of the icefield and surrounding mountains. The experience ends with a gentle descent, bringing you back to the familiar sights of downtown Juneau.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Practical Details

This tour departs from Downtown Juneau at Wings Airways Floatplane Base, located at 2 Marine Way in the Historic Merchants Wharf. The large blue building at the head of the harbor makes the meeting point easy to find. The tour lasts about 3 hours and includes a live English-speaking guide, with commentary delivered through individual headsets.

Guests should bring a camera and weather-appropriate clothing, as Alaska’s weather can vary. The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or those over 297 lbs / 135 kg or 300 lbs / 136 kg.

Booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for travel planning.

Unique Aspects of This Tour Experience

What sets this experience apart is the combination of scenic flightseeing with glacier-view dining, creating a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation. The historic Taku Glacier Lodge, established in 1923, offers a rustic, authentic atmosphere that enhances the connection to Alaska’s past.

The guaranteed window seats and personal headsets ensure a comfortable and engaging flight, while the possibility of black bear sightings adds an element of wildlife excitement. This tour appeals most to travelers who want a comprehensive glacier experience that includes aerial views, cultural insight, and local cuisine within a small-group setting.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Alaska Glacier Adventure

The Juneau: Taku Glacier Lodge 5-Glacier Flight & Feast provides an engaging 3-hour window into Alaska’s icy wilderness. The stunning aerial views of five glaciers, combined with a delicious salmon feast at a historic lodge, make for an authentic and scenic experience. The opportunity to walk forest trails or relax indoors adds flexibility and slows down the pace for a more immersive outing.

This tour is especially suited for those interested in glacier landscapes, aerial sightseeing, and local food. The accessible logistics and informative narration make it a practical choice for most travelers, although it’s not designed for those with mobility challenges. This experience offers a meaningful glimpse into Alaska’s natural beauty and history in a well-organized package.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Downtown Juneau at Wings Airways Floatplane Base, 2 Marine Way.

What glaciers will I see?
The flight features Norris, East Twin, West Twin, Hole-in-the-Wall, and Taku Glacier.

Is the meal at Taku Glacier Lodge included?
Yes, a salmon meal and other baked goods are included as part of the experience.

Can I explore trails after the meal?
Yes, guests can wander forest trails, relax by the hearth, or enjoy the views at their own pace.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for those with mobility impairments and involves some walking on trails, so flexibility is limited for some guests.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera and weather-appropriate clothing for the outdoor elements.

Are there any wildlife sightings?
Black bears may be seen near the lodge area, adding a wild Alaska touch to the visit.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

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