Prince William Sound Tour with Glacier Landing from Girdwood

If you’re dreaming of seeing Alaska’s stunning glaciers and rugged mountains from above, this Prince William Sound helicopter tour with glacier landing might be just what you’re after. We haven’t been on this exact trip ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed info, it’s clear this experience offers a rare chance to see some of North America’s most spectacular icy landscapes.

What we particularly love about this tour is the aerial perspective—flying over glaciers and mountains really puts into context just how vast and awe-inspiring this part of Alaska is. Plus, the landing on a glacier is a genuine highlight, giving you the chance to step onto ice that few visitors get to touch. On the flip side, the price tag of $787 per person isn’t cheap, but considering the personalized adventure and remarkable scenery, many find it a worthwhile splurge.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers and nature lovers who want a full, immersive experience with breathtaking views and a touch of adventure on the ice. If you’re comfortable with helicopter rides and want to tick off a bucket list item, this could be a highlight of your Alaskan trip.

Key Points

• Unmatched views of glaciers, mountains, and Prince William Sound from the air
• Glacier landing offers a rare opportunity to explore ice on foot
• Hassle-free logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Limited group size ensures a more intimate experience
• Weather-dependent activity, so flexibility is key
• High value for the price if scenery and adventure matter most

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Starting Point: Girdwood’s Alpine Air Alaska Hangar

Your adventure begins at a comfortable hangar in Girdwood, just a short drive from Anchorage. The check-in process is straightforward—arrive about 15 minutes early for a quick safety briefing before boarding the helicopter. The first impression is of a well-organized operation, with a small group of up to nine travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and personal.

The Flight Over Chugach National Forest and Glaciers

Once airborne, the real magic begins. Flying over the glacier-filled peaks of the Chugach range, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view that’s hard to match. Your pilot acts as both guide and storyteller, pointing out interesting glaciers, mountains, and landmarks. One of the best parts? The expansiveness of the ice and landscape becomes clear only from the sky.

Travelers consistently mention the spectacular views—crystalline glaciers, towering peaks, and the shimmering Prince William Sound. One reviewer raves that the views are “picturesque” and describes the experience as “a can’t-miss once in a lifetime.” The chance to see wildlife, like seals and otters, from above adds to the thrill, especially because the vastness of the landscape makes wildlife spotting more likely.

Landing on a Glacier: Stepping onto Ice

The highlight for many is the glacier landing. Touching down on the ice allows you to stand on something that feels both ancient and fragile. You can explore the icy surface, take photos, and get a sense of the remote, untouched nature of this environment. Several reviews mention the sense of awe and the unique opportunity to walk on a glacier—something most travelers will only see in documentaries.

The Return Flight and Prince William Sound

After exploring the ice, the flight continues over the pristine waters of Prince William Sound. The faces of massive tidewater glaciers shed ice into the water, while below, you might spot seals and otters lounging or playing. The overall experience combines eye-popping scenery with a touch of wildlife observation from above.

The Logistics and What’s Included

The tour includes round-trip shared transfer if you’re staying at a Girdwood hotel or B&B, making it easy to join without extra hassle. The entire experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with approximately 1 hour 10 minutes of flight time. The helicopter ride itself is relatively short but packed with stunning views and the glacier landing.

Weather and Cancellations

Weather plays a significant role in whether the tour runs. If the weather is poor, the activity might be canceled, but the company offers full refunds or alternative dates. This flexibility is a big plus because weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Travelers have noted how well the staff handles rescheduling, ensuring that you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What the Reviews Say

While most reviews are glowing, describing the tour as “incredible,” “picturesque,” and “worth every penny,” there are some things to keep in mind. Several reviewers highlight the outstanding pilots—not just for their flying skills but also for their storytelling and friendliness. One even described the pilot as “the best private photographer ever,” emphasizing the personalized touch.

A common theme is the stunning scenery—crystalline glaciers, towering mountains, and calm waters—making it clear that this is a visual feast. A traveler from Arizona mentions how it made their trip “memorable,” echoing the sentiment that this experience leaves a lasting impression.

The tour isn’t just about the scenery; the small group size and personalized service make it feel special. Many reviewers also appreciated the flexibility around rescheduling due to weather, which helps reduce stress and disappointment.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the price—$787 per person. For some, this is a significant expense, but the consensus among reviewers is that the value justifies the cost if you’re seeking a premium experience. The activity is weather-dependent, so if poor weather cancels your trip, you’ll need to be flexible with dates or accept a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for an unforgettable photo opportunity, a distinctive adventure, or a way to truly appreciate Alaska’s grandeur from above. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who don’t mind a helicopter ride and want to walk on a glacier. Nature enthusiasts will especially enjoy the chance to see wildlife, glaciers, and mountains all in one tour.

While it might be a bit pricey for some, those who value once-in-a-lifetime scenery and personalized service will find it well worth the investment. It’s less suited for travelers who prefer relaxed, ground-level sightseeing or those with limited mobility, given the specific physical requirements for stepping onto the ice.

Final Thoughts

This Prince William Sound with Glacier Landing tour offers a rare blend of aerial adventure and icy exploration. The views—crystalline glaciers, rugged peaks, and expansive waters—are simply breathtaking. The small-group setting and expert pilot storytelling make it feel personal and special, elevating it beyond just a sightseeing flight.

If you’re after a high-impact, memorable experience that captures Alaska’s wild beauty, this tour is hard to beat. It’s a prime choice for anyone eager to see glaciers up close, capture stunning photos, or enjoy a true adventure in one of North America’s most glaciated regions.

That said, do keep in mind the weather dependence and price. If you’re flexible and ready for a bit of an adventure, this might just be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Children can participate if they are accompanied by an adult, but keep in mind the physical requirement of stepping onto the glacier. It’s better suited for older kids or teenagers comfortable with helicopter rides and cold environments.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with roughly 1 hour 10 minutes of flight time.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a helicopter flight over glaciers, mountains, and Prince William Sound, a glacier landing, and round-trip shared transfer from Girdwood hotels or B&Bs if needed.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour group is limited to 9 travelers, making it more intimate and allowing for better interaction with the pilot.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, especially since you’ll be close to ice and potentially cold air. The helicopter provides some protection but it’s best to be prepared.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the activity relies on favorable weather. Poor weather can lead to cancellations, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online through the provider’s site or Viator, typically booking about 2 months in advance.

Can I reschedule if the weather is bad?
Yes, the company is accommodating and offers the option to reschedule or get a full refund if the weather cancels the tour.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
From the air, you might spot seals and otters in the water below—wildlife observation is enhanced by the expansive scenery.

Is this tour physically demanding?
It involves stepping onto a glacier, which can be uneven, so good mobility is recommended. If you’re comfortable outdoors in cold weather, you should be fine.

This helicopter tour with glacier landing offers a chance to see Alaska’s breathtaking icy landscapes in a way few other experiences can match. Whether you’re a keen photographer or simply want to check off an extraordinary adventure, it’s worth considering if your schedule and budget allow.