Helicopter Glacier Swim & Hike

Helicopter Glacier Swim & Hike Review: An Adventure Worth Considering

If you’re dreaming of a truly unique way to see Alaska’s glacier landscape, the Helicopter Glacier Swim & Hike might just catch your eye. Although we haven’t personally taken the tour, the reviews and details paint a picture of a carefully curated experience that combines breathtaking scenery with a daring bit of adventure.

What stands out to us are the opportunity to fly over stunning glaciers in a small group—making the whole experience feel intimate—and the chance to actually swim in glacier water in a dry suit, which is not your typical sightseeing excursion. The one potential downside? With a price tag of around $823 per person, it’s definitely an investment. But if you’re after an unforgettable, hands-on glacier experience, this could be worth it, especially for those who love a mix of scenic beauty and a dash of adrenaline.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable in water and don’t mind a good hike or a chilly swim. It’s especially appealing if you’re into photography, nature, or just want a story to tell. Keep in mind, the minimum age is 18, so it’s not ideal if you’re traveling with small children.

Key Points
– Small-group experience: Only up to 6 travelers, keeping it cozy and personalized.
– Stunning views: 20-minute helicopter flight offers remarkable glacier scenery, perfect for photography.
– Active and adventurous: You can choose to swim in glacier waters, protected by dry suits.
– Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, ensuring safety and making the experience informative.
– All-inclusive pricing: Fees cover the helicopter flight, dry suits, flotation devices, and helmets.
– No transfers included: You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off at the meeting point on E Knik River Rd in Palmer, Alaska. From there, you’ll hop into a helicopter for a roughly 20-minute flight that promises jaw-dropping views of glaciers, icefalls, and rugged terrain. As you soar above this icy landscape, you’ll be able to really soak in the scale and beauty of Alaska’s frozen wilderness. The flight itself seems to be a highlight, with reviews lauding the scenery and the skill of the pilots. One reviewer even mentioned that the pilot Shane was very informative, making the flight not just beautiful but educational.

Upon landing on the glacier, your guide will help you gear up with a dry suit. This is a key part of the experience, allowing you to comfortably swim in the cold glacier waters if you choose. Reviewers like Tom and Jared are praised for their thorough safety checks and informative commentary, making sure you’re comfortable and knowledgeable before taking the plunge. If swimming isn’t your thing, plenty of guests simply enjoy soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and snapping photos.

The main attraction is, of course, the glacier landscape—its serene, majestic qualities that are often impossible to fully capture in photos. As one reviewer put it, the scenery during the flight and at the landing spot was “so beautiful.” The water’s vibrant blue hue in the glacier lakes is also a showstopper. The guides seem to go above and beyond, ensuring safety and making sure everyone is prepared, whether you plan to swim or just enjoy the scenery.

Authentic feedback from past guests shows high satisfaction—”Great tour! Highly recommend,” and “Best tour we did in Alaska” are common themes. Several mention that the experience exceeded expectations, with some wishing for more time to enjoy the terrain. The tours are described as well-organized, with guides making every effort to explain the glacier’s features and keep everyone safe.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour primarily involves a single, but immersive, stop. Your helicopter flight will take you over some of Alaska’s most striking glacier landscapes. While the itinerary is brief—about 2 hours total—the key part is the landing on the glacier, where you’ll have the chance to explore, photograph, and if you opt in, swim in the glacier lake.

The flight time itself is about 20 minutes, which is enough to get a solid overview of the terrain without feeling rushed. Once on the glacier, you’ll have ample time to take photos and enjoy the peaceful environment, with your guide providing insight into the geology and formation of the ice.

A highlight for many is the glacier swim, which is made accessible thanks to the dry suit. The water is, as you’d expect, very cold, but the suits and safety gear help make it manageable. The experience is focused on savoring the glacier’s serenity and natural beauty, making it perfect for those who appreciate quiet, awe-inspiring landscapes.

The guide’s role cannot be overstated—reviews praise their professionalism and knowledge, which enhances the experience whether you’re just enjoying the scenery or testing your bravery in the icy water.

Pricing & Value

At just over $820 per person, this tour isn’t cheap. But considering it includes the helicopter flight, dry suits, safety gear, and guidance, the price aligns with what you might expect for such a high-end, small-group adventure in an exclusive location. Many reviewers felt it was worth every penny, describing it as “once in a lifetime” and “undersold.”

It’s important to consider that this experience is not just about the scenic views—it’s about actively engaging with the landscape in a way few get to. The small group size (max 6 travelers) ensures personalized attention, which adds to the overall value.

The tour does not include transfers to the meeting point, so plan accordingly. Since most travelers book this about 97 days in advance, it’s clear it’s popular and highly sought after, especially in peak season. Booking early is advisable to secure a spot.

The Practicalities

Most travelers can participate, with the main restrictions being age—minimum 18—and comfort with water and small groups. The total weight limit per passenger is 450 lbs, a consideration for some travelers. The tour operates in fair weather; if weather conditions prevent flying, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Since food and beverages are not included, you’ll want to plan for any snacks or refreshments before or after the tour. Remember, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point, which is located in Palmer, Alaska.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Helicopter Glacier Swim & Hike offers an exciting blend of stunning aerial scenery and a tactile experience in the icy wilderness of Alaska. It’s perfect for enthusiasts of nature photography, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting to see glaciers from a truly unique perspective. The small group format and knowledgeable guides mean you’re not just a passenger but part of an intimate adventure that emphasizes safety and appreciation for the landscape.

While the price might be steep, many reviews confirm that the experience exceeds expectations, offering memories that last a lifetime. The chance to swim in glacier waters is a rare opportunity—something that makes this tour stand apart from typical sightseeing trips.

If you’re comfortable with water, ready for a bit of chill, and eager to see Alaska’s glaciers from above and below, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared for the price and the physical demands of the experience. This is definitely a bucket-list adventure, especially suited for those who value a blend of natural beauty, adrenaline, and expert guidance.

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transfers are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the start location at 29979 E Knik River Rd, Palmer, AK.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 6 travelers, which helps ensure a more personalized and less crowded experience.

Can I swim in the glacier water?
Yes, with the provided dry suit, you have the option to swim in the glacier lake if you feel comfortable. The suits are designed for warmth and safety.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, with roughly 20 minutes of helicopter flight time, plus preparation and time on the glacier.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, it’s suitable for travelers of all fitness levels, as long as you’re comfortable with the cold water and the physical activity involved in hiking and swimming.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent the helicopter flight, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The experience is weather-dependent for safety reasons.

All in all, this Glacier Swim & Hike adventure offers a rare chance to see Alaska from a perspective few ever experience: soaring over glaciers and then stepping onto them. If you’re looking for a memorable, bucket-list-worthy trip and don’t mind the price, this could be the highlight of your Alaskan journey.