Glacier Landing Tour from Girdwood

If you’re dreaming of seeing Alaska’s glaciers from above and walking on real ice, this Glacier Landing Tour from Girdwood might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t done this trip ourselves, the overwhelmingly positive reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of something truly special. It’s a rare chance to fly over stunning mountain ranges and land on a glacier that’s thousands of years old – a real bucket-list experience.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of a private helicopter flight with the intimate experience of walking on a glacier. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup makes it feel smooth and hassle-free. However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a cheap outing, and it has some logistical considerations, such as weight limits and weather dependency.

This kind of adventure is best suited for those who crave jaw-dropping scenery, don’t mind a structured schedule, and are comfortable with small group sizes. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends awe-inspiring views with a touch of adventure, keep reading.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of the Chugach Mountains and glaciers from a private helicopter
• Walk on a 40,000-year-old glacier, a rare experience for most travelers
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier
• Limited to small groups (max 12 travelers), offering a more intimate experience
• Weather-dependent, with flexible rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions
• Weight limit of 290 lbs per passenger, which can be a consideration for some travelers

Why You’ll Love the Glacier Landing Tour

This tour is all about seeing Alaska’s wild beauty from a perspective few get to experience—the sky. The flight over the Chugach Mountains offers sweeping views of glaciers and rugged peaks, guaranteed to make your phone’s camera work overtime. Many reviews highlight how smooth and professional the pilots are, adding an extra layer of comfort to an already breathtaking experience.

But what really makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to walk on a glacier. Landing on this ancient ice, drinking glacier water, and exploring the terrain up close is genuinely a rare privilege. Several guests have shared how they found this to be “unbelievable” and “something everyone should do.” It’s a chance to connect with nature in a very tangible way, far from the crowds and noise of typical sightseeing.

The inclusion of hotel pickup is a thoughtful touch that simplifies your day, especially considering Girdwood’s remote location. Plus, since it’s a small-group experience, you’re not lost in a crowd, making it easier to get personalized attention and ask questions.

What You Get for the Price

At $677 per person, this isn’t an inexpensive outing, but the value comes from the combination of private helicopter flight, glacier exploration, and expert guidance. Many travelers consider the experience worth every penny, especially when you factor in the uniqueness of walking on a glacier and the outstanding scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Girdwood’s Alyeska Airport

Your adventure kicks off at the Alpine Air Alaska hangar in Girdwood, a scenic ski resort town just 40 miles south of Anchorage. Expect to arrive about 15 minutes early for a quick safety briefing—nothing overly technical but enough to put first-timers at ease. From here, you’ll board a state-of-the-art helicopter with large windows, designed for optimal sightseeing.

The Flight over the Chugach Mountains

Once in the air, you’ll fly over the spectacular glaciers and mountains of the Chugach Range. The flight lasts around 45 minutes, but many reviews describe it as “unforgettable,” thanks to the incredible views. Guests often mention how the pilots are knowledgeable, blending expert flying with interesting commentary about the landscape. Expect to see glaciers, mountain streams, and perhaps wildlife like moose or mountain goats if you’re lucky, as some reviewers did.

Glacier Landing and Exploration

The highlight for many is landing on a 40,000-year-old glacier. You’ll get time to walk around and explore this icy world, which is an experience unlike any other. Several guests loved drinking glacier water directly from the ice, describing the experience as “magical” and “unbelievable.” The terrain is safe for walking, and your pilot will guide you around, pointing out features and sharing insights.

Return to Girdwood

After your glacier walk, the helicopter takes you back to Girdwood, ending the tour at the same location. It’s a compact, roughly one-hour experience, but one that’s packed with stunning sights and memorable moments.

What the Reviews Say

Guests rave about the knowledge and friendliness of the pilots. One reviewer shared, “Our pilot was not only knowledgeable and professional but also doubled as our guide and photographer,” highlighting the personal touch that makes this trip special. Others mention the “smooth ride,” “spectacular scenery,” and “perfect weather,” describing it as “one of the coolest things we’ve ever done.”

A few reviews touch on logistical considerations, like the weight limit of 290 lbs per person. One disappointed guest found out too late that they couldn’t participate due to weight restrictions, emphasizing the importance of preparing in advance.

Many travelers also appreciate the small group size—with a maximum of just 12 people, it feels more personalized, and you get plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs $677 per person, which is on the higher side, but when you consider the unique opportunity to walk on a glacier and fly over such a pristine landscape, many find it justified. The price includes the helicopter flight, glacier exploration, and hotel pickup if needed within Girdwood, making the logistics straightforward.

The tour is most suitable for most travelers, but those over 290 lbs might need to look for alternatives. Also, since the tour depends on weather conditions, it’s good to keep a flexible schedule. Cancellations due to weather are fully refundable if made at least 24 hours in advance.

The tour lasts about an hour, with around 45 minutes in the air, making it a perfect mid-morning or early afternoon activity. It’s best to arrive a little early for check-in, and you’ll want to wear warm layers—it can be surprisingly cold on the glacier, even in summer.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re after visual awe, memorable adventures, and like the idea of walking on a glacier, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with a small group experience and who value knowledgeable guides. It’s also a great option if you’re staying in Girdwood or nearby and want a hassle-free, all-in-one package.

However, if you’re traveling with someone who has mobility issues or concerns about weight limits, it’s worth planning ahead. And if you’re afraid of flying or have severe weather anxieties, this might not be the best fit. Still, for most adventure seekers, this tour hits all the right notes.

Final Thoughts

The Glacier Landing Tour from Girdwood offers a rare blend of spectacular aerial scenery and ground-level exploration that’s hard to match anywhere else. The opportunity to walk on a glacier, sip glacier water, and witness Alaska’s icy grandeur firsthand makes it one of those experiences that stays long after the trip ends. The knowledgeable pilots, small group setting, and seamless organization add to its appeal.

While it’s not a budget tour, many reviewers agree it’s worth the investment for the memories and photo opportunities. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of adventure, education, and stunning scenery—all packaged into a relatively short, well-organized outing.

If you’re someone who appreciates expert guides, breathtaking views, and a chance to step onto 40,000-year-old ice, this could be one of the highlights of your Alaska trip. Just remember to book ahead, come prepared for the weather, and be ready for a truly unforgettable adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip shared transfer from any Girdwood hotel or B&B is included if required, making transportation easy and stress-free.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts about one hour, with approximately 45 minutes of flying time, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What is the maximum weight per passenger?
The weight limit is 290 lbs per person. This is a strict safety regulation, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. While the reviews don’t specify age limits, the experience is generally suitable for most ages that can handle flying and walking on a glacier.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $677 per person, which many find justified by the unique experience of flying over glaciers and walking on real ice.

What kind of aircraft is used?
State-of-the-art helicopters with large windows ensure excellent sightseeing and a comfortable flight experience.

Are there other similar tours?
Yes, you can explore related tours like city sightseeing or wildlife-viewing trips in Anchorage, but this glacier landing is a standout for its unique landings and scenery.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Wearing warm layers is recommended, especially since it can be cold on the glacier. Cameras and waterproof gear are also advisable for capturing the moment.

If you’re craving a trip that combines spectacular aerial views with a chance to step onto ancient ice, this Glacier Landing Tour from Girdwood offers a genuinely memorable Alaska experience. Just be sure to prepare, book early, and keep expectations high—this is one trip that tends to deliver on its promise of adventure and stunning scenery.