This tour offers a chance to see some of Alaska’s most incredible landscapes from above and get up close with the iconic sled dogs that define the state’s winter spirit. While I haven’t personally taken this particular trip, I’ve read plenty of reviews and details, and it seems like a true highlight for anyone wanting a mix of adventure and scenery with a touch of authentic Alaskan charm.
What draws many to this experience are the spectacular helicopter flights over glaciers—a visual feast—and the interactive dogsledding with a team led by an Iditarod champion. It’s a combo that promises both adrenaline and awe, with plenty of opportunities to learn about the region’s natural beauty and its sled dog culture.
One thing to keep in mind is that weather can impact operations due to the high-altitude glacier landing. So, flexibility around scheduling or rebooking options are a good idea if your trip coincides with less cooperative weather. Still, if you’re after a thrilling, scenic adventure that feels authentically Alaskan, this tour could be just the ticket.
It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable with a bit of altitude, and want to experience Alaska’s wilderness in a way that feels both personal and grand. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone ticking off a bucket list, this tour delivers a memorable combo of views and adventure.
Key Points
- Stunning helicopter views over glaciers, icebergs, and mountain ranges.
- Engaging dogsled experience on real snow, led by seasoned mushers.
- Weather-dependent operation, with options to reschedule or cancel.
- Includes all necessary gear like overboots and warm clothing options.
- Highly praised guides and pilots contribute to a smooth, informative experience.
- Great value for the price considering the combination of activities and scenery.
An In-Depth Look at This Unique Alaska Tour
If you’re visiting the Anchorage area and craving a genuine taste of Alaska’s wild beauty, this helicopter and dogsled combo tour is a fantastic choice. It packs in enough adventure and scenery to feel like a full day, but in reality, it lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it manageable even if your schedule is tight.
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The Helicopter Ride: Aerial Views of Glaciers and Wildlife
The experience kicks off with a 30-minute helicopter flight over the Chugach Range, Knik Glacier, Lake George, and more. These areas are among Alaska’s most stunning natural features, known for their vast ice formations and rugged mountain peaks. During this flight, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery from a perspective few people get to see, with the chance to spot wildlife such as moose, black bears, Dall sheep, and mountain goats.
The flight alone is worth the price for many, especially since some reviews mention that the pilot provided a friendly, engaging commentary about the landscape, although others felt that the pilot could have been a bit more talkative. Still, the views speak for themselves.
Glacier Landings and Weather Considerations
One of the highlights is landing on a glacier snowfield. This isn’t just a photo op—it’s a real, tactile experience in an otherworldly environment. You get to stand on the ice, breathe in the crisp air, and get a sense of how immense these glaciers are.
However, because of the high terrain and unpredictable weather, glacier landings are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the tour provider offers options for rebooking, partial refunds, or rescheduling. This flexibility can be reassuring, but it’s worth noting that if your trip is delayed or canceled due to weather, your experience might change slightly.
Dogsledding: The Heart of the Adventure
From the glacier, you’ll transition to the main event—the dogsledding experience. You’ll get around an hour with a team of real sled dogs who live and train here all summer. You can choose to mush the team yourself or sit back and watch the mushers handle the sleds. Either way, you’ll learn about the sport from mushers, often including those who have raced the Iditarod, and get to pet and meet the adorable, energetic dogs afterward.
What’s especially charming is how interactive this part of the tour is. Reviews mention that the dogs are friendly, and meeting the puppies and taking photos with your favorite dogs is a favorite activity. Many guests appreciated the guides’ knowledge—one noted that their musher shared lots of fun facts about long-distance racing and life on the glacier.
More Great Tours NearbyPost-ride Reflection and Additional Highlights
After the dogsledding, you’ll have an opportunity to hang around and enjoy the scenery, chat with the guides, or simply soak in the moment. The experience is paced well, with enough time to appreciate the environment and the dogs without feeling rushed.
The tour wraps up with a second helicopter ride, this time over the lower glaciers, giving you a different perspective—blues of melt pools and deep crevasses—that completes the visual story.
Practical Details and Comfort
The entire adventure is designed to be accessible, with overboots provided to keep your shoes dry and warm gear available if needed. Since you’ll be outside on snow and ice, dressing warmly in layers with waterproof outerwear, hats, gloves, and sunglasses is a must. The tour is about 1.5 to 2 hours long, balancing adventure and comfort.
Notably, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to coordinate your transportation to the Alaska Glacier Lodge. Many reviews mention renting a car or driving, which is straightforward given the location.
What Do Travelers Say?
From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that many find this trip very worthwhile. Travelers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff, the beautiful scenery, and the exciting dogsled experience. One guest remarked, “The crew on the glacier were phenomenal! Very informative and eager to share their extensive knowledge,” which highlights just how engaging the guides are.
While most reviews are positive, a few mention that the helicopter pilot could have been more personable or provided more commentary during the flight. Weather affects the tour, but the flexibility offered by the company is a good backup plan.
Price and Value
At $653 per person, this tour is an investment, but it’s one that many seem to think is worth it. Considering the combination of two helicopter rides, a glacier experience, and a full hour with the sled dogs, the value aligns with the price for those looking for a comprehensive Alaskan adventure. The reviews and ratings (4.9 out of 5 from 48 reviews) support that most guests feel they got their money’s worth.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers who crave visual spectacle and hands-on adventure. It’s perfect for those who want to see Alaska’s glaciers from above, stand on snowfields, and get a real taste of the sled dog culture. It’s suitable for anyone comfortable with outdoor elements and high-altitude environments, but not necessarily tailored for families with very young children, unless they’re hardy and enjoy cold outdoor activities.
Adventure-seekers, animal lovers, and anyone with an appreciation for dramatic scenery will find plenty to love here. It’s also a wonderful choice for those who appreciate the mix of adrenaline and education, as guides do a good job sharing stories and facts about the region.
The Sum Up
If you’re after a full-throttle Alaskan experience that combines scenic helicopter flights and genuine dogsledding, then this tour offers a thoughtfully crafted adventure. The breathtaking views from above, coupled with the interactive dogsledding, deliver a sense of connection to Alaska’s wild and rugged landscape that’s hard to match.
While the weather can be a variable, the flexibility offered by the tour provider helps ensure you’ll still have a memorable experience. The guides and pilots are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey both safe and engaging.
This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see glaciers from every angle, meet the dogs that embody Alaskan resilience, and enjoy a manageable, action-packed tour. If you’re looking for a bucket list-worthy activity that balances adventure with stunning scenery, this trip is a strong contender.
Anchorage Area: Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour
FAQ
Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, transportation to the Alaska Glacier Lodge is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, including flights, dogsledding, and the second helicopter ride.
What should I wear?
Warm clothing, including layers like wool or fleece, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sturdy footwear like hiking boots are recommended. The tour provides overboots for walking in snow.
Can I mush the dogs myself?
Yes, you can choose to mush the team or sit on the sled while the musher handles it.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather can affect the ability to land on glaciers and complete the full tour. You’ll be offered options to rebook, reschedule, or cancel for a full refund.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight that guides and staff are friendly, informative, and eager to share their expertise about the glaciers, dogs, and the region.
Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activity involves outdoor winter conditions and a moderate level of activity, so consider your child’s comfort with cold and outdoor adventures.
If you’re after an authentic taste of Alaska’s majestic landscapes paired with a lively dogsledding experience, this tour could be just the thing to create unforgettable memories.
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