We Rank The 15 Best Tours & Things To Do In Alaska

Alaska’s vast wilderness isn’t just a pretty picture — it’s an active playground for travelers seeking unique experiences. Whether you’re soaring above Denali’s towering peaks, cruising past glaciers, or mushing sled dogs in summer and winter, this state offers adventures that go beyond typical sightseeing.

One of our favorite picks is the Denali Experience Flightseeing Tour from Talkeetna, which lets you see the world’s tallest mountain from the sky with breathtaking views of Ruth Glaciers, Great Gorge, and Mount Huntington.

The thrill of landing on a glacier and walking in snow in the middle of summer is hard to beat. Alaska truly shines when you explore its wild, untouched landscapes firsthand.

Whether you’re into high-flying adventures, wildlife cruises, or hands-on dog sledding, Alaska’s tours offer something for every kind of explorer. From the adrenaline rush of helicopter rides to the tranquil beauty of glacier cruises, each experience provides a fresh way to connect with nature.

So, buckle up, get ready for some jaw-dropping scenery, and let’s dive into the top 15 tours and things to do that should be on every Alaska itinerary.

1. Denali Experience Flightseeing Tour from Talkeetna

At number 1 on our list, the Denali Experience Flightseeing Tour from Talkeetna is a spectacular way to see the mountain that defines Alaska. For about $348, you’ll get 1 hour 30 minutes of flying over rivers, valleys, and glaciers, with the optional glacier landing included. Your expert bush pilot provides live commentary, pointing out Ruth Amphitheater, Great Gorge, Tokositna, and Ruth Glaciers.

The highlight is landing on a glacier and walking on snow in the summer — a surreal experience that’s worth every penny.

Guests rave about how breathtaking the views are, with one saying, “The flight was fun and the views were incredible!” The small-group format and glacier landing make this tour stand out.

It’s best suited for those eager to see Denali from above without breaking the bank or for travelers short on time but wanting a true Alaskan adventure. The price reflects the high-quality experience, including pickup, drop-off, and live commentary.

Bottom Line: If you want a classic Denali adventure with the thrill of landing on a glacier, this tour offers exceptional value and unforgettable scenery.

2. Alaska Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing – 60 mins – ANCHORAGE AREA

Next on our list is the Alaska Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing, which for around $452 offers a personalized, small-group experience. The 1-hour helicopter flight takes you over the Knik River to Knik Glacier, where you’ll land on or near the ice depending on the season. You can then step out for a guided hike across the glacier or explore the icy formations.

This tour is ideal for those who love a hands-on adventure and want to combine scenic flight with glacier exploration. The reviews highlight the “breathtaking views” and the sense of safety and professionalism from the pilots. Wildlife such as moose, bears, and mountain goats are often spotted during the flight, adding to the thrill.

Bottom Line: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts wanting an intimate and active experience with stunning views of Alaska’s glaciers and wilderness.

3. Denali Zipline Tour in Talkeetna, AK

For $168, the Denali Zipline Tour in Talkeetna offers a 3-hour adrenaline rush that combines soaring through the air with incredible views of the Alaska Range. Zip across platforms overlooking Susitna and Chulitna Valleys and even get a peek at the south side of Denali. Expert guides provide thorough safety instructions, ensuring you can enjoy the thrill worry-free.

This tour is especially great for those who want a physical challenge mixed with scenery. Reviewers mention the “wonderful guides” and the “memorable experience,” with one saying, “I’m 71 and it was a blast.” The multiple departure options make it flexible for different schedules.

Bottom Line: A high-energy adventure with spectacular mountain vistas, suitable for active travelers and those seeking a new perspective.

4. Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour – ANCHORAGE AREA

Number 4 is the Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour, combining a helicopter ride over the Church Range and Knik Glacier with a dogsled adventure on Troublesome Glacier. For about $617, you’ll see native wildlife, enjoy a snow trek, and get up close to Alaskan dogs.

This is a rare chance to experience both aerial views and a real dogsled ride in summer. Guests note the “spectacular scenery” and the “fun of mushing with champion dogs,” making it perfect for families or adventure lovers who want to try multiple activities in one tour.

Bottom Line: A comprehensive, multi-activity experience that combines scenery, wildlife, and the thrill of mushing.

5. Denali Flyer Flightseeing Tour from Talkeetna

The Denali Flyer Flightseeing Tour from Talkeetna is a 2-hour, high-altitude adventure costing around $422. It takes you over Denali’s peaks, the Kahiltna glacier, and climbers’ base camp. Fly close to Mount Foraker and Mount Hunter, with optional glacier landings.

This tour is perfect for those wanting an intense aerial exploration of Denali and its surrounding glaciers. The reviews praise the “breathtaking views” and the pilot’s “knowledgeable commentary.” The flight captures the monumental scale of the mountain and its icy surroundings.

Bottom Line: An immersive flight for travelers eager to see Denali’s grandeur from every angle, with the possibility of landing on a glacier.

6. Mush Your Own Sled Dog Team (Summer/Fall Tour)

For $199, the Mush Your Own Sled Dog Team offers a hands-on experience on dry land. Spend 2.5 hours learning about sled dog training, then mush a team through scenic forest trails. Interact with the dogs and learn about the Iditarod race from professional mushers.

The small-group setting ensures personal attention, and guests rave about the “fun and educational” experience. It’s ideal for dog lovers and those curious about how Alaska’s iconic sled dogs operate outside winter.

Bottom Line: A memorable, educational, and engaging experience that brings the legend of sled dogs to life.

7. Summer Dog Sledding Adventure in Willow, Alaska

This private tour costs $208 and lets you mushing on ATV-like carts pulled by champion dogs through the Alaskan forest. It’s a great pick for those who want a remote, authentic feel without the snow. You’ll meet the dogs, learn about their training, and enjoy views of Denali.

Guests call it the “quintessential Alaskan experience,” highlighting how friendly and well-cared-for the dogs are. It’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with a focus on fun and learning.

Bottom Line: An authentic, family-friendly introduction to dog sledding in a beautiful setting.

8. Grand Denali Flightseeing tour from Talkeetna

Number 8 is the Grand Denali Flightseeing Tour, which for about $475 offers an extensive 1.5 to 2-hour flight. This tour crosses over the entire Alaska Range, including the Wickersham Wall and seven glaciers, with the option for a glacier landing.

Perfect for those who want a comprehensive view of Denali’s scale, the reviews commend the “awesome glacier landing” and the “professional pilot.” It’s suited to travelers wanting to maximize their aerial experience.

Bottom Line: A wide-ranging flight that covers all sides of Denali and the surrounding glaciers, with optional glacier landing for a true immersion.

9. Columbia Glacier Cruise from Valdez

For a full-day adventure, the Columbia Glacier Cruise from Valdez is a 6-hour boat trip costing $179. You’ll see the largest tidewater glacier in south-central Alaska, with chances to spot wildlife like puffins, sea lions, and whales. A lunch and professional guide add to the experience.

Guests describe it as “unbelievable” and the “best thing I’ve ever done,” emphasizing the opportunity to see calving glaciers and abundant wildlife. It’s suited for nature lovers wanting an active day on the water.

Bottom Line: An all-day cruise offering wildlife sightings, glacier calving, and stunning scenery in Prince William Sound.

10. Denali Grand Flightseeing Tour from Talkeetna

The Denali Grand Flightseeing Tour offers 2.5 hours of flying for $490, giving the most comprehensive aerial view of Denali. Limited to six passengers, it includes views of Wickersham Wall, Kahiltna Glacier, and Climber’s Base Camp, with options to land on a glacier.

This experience is for those who want a close-up look at Denali’s rugged features, with reviews praising the “spectacular views” and the pilot’s “knowledgeable” narration. It’s an ideal choice for adventurous travelers wanting an intimate aircraft experience.

Bottom Line: The ultimate small-group flight for dedicated Denali fans seeking in-depth views and glacier landings.

11. South Side Explorer with Glacier Landing

Number 11, the South Side Explorer, is a 2-hour flight for about $398. It takes you over Susitna Valley, the Great Gorge, and the Alaska Range, ending with a glacier landing. The small group cap of 10 ensures a personal experience while exploring Alaska’s most striking scenery.

Reviewers highlight the “fabulous” Denali views and the “smooth glacier landing,” making it perfect for those wanting a balanced mix of flightseeing and ice exploration.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded option for travelers wanting a shorter, personalized flight with glacier landing.

12. Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour + Lower Glacier Landing

This elite tour, the Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour + Lower Glacier Landing, costs over $823 but offers a full-day, multi-activity experience. Fly in a helicopter over glaciers, then explore ice crevasses and melt pools on a guided glacier walk. The highlight is driving a sled dog team on real ice with highly trained Alaskan sled dogs.

Perfect for thrill-seekers and those who want to combine aerial views with immersive activities. Reviews mention the “spectacular scenery” and “driving the sled dog team,” emphasizing the tour’s uniqueness.

Bottom Line: An all-in-one adventure for serious explorers, offering helicopter flight, glacier walking, and dog mushing in one package.

13. Mush Your Own Sled Dog Team (Winter Tour) in Talkeetna, Alaska

In winter, the Mush Your Own Sled Dog Team for $220 is a classic. You’ll learn to mush with a pro musher, then glide through snowy forests in a sled pulled by enthusiastic dogs. The tour includes interaction with puppies, making it fun for all ages.

Guests describe it as “the best activity ever,” with the chance to learn about the Iditarod and experience dog sledding firsthand. It’s especially suited for families or anyone wanting a hands-on, authentic Alaskan experience.

Bottom Line: A true winter highlight, offering the chance to mush your own team and meet adorable puppies.

14. Mountain Voyager Flightseeing tour from Talkeetna

The Mountain Voyager Flightseeing is a 1 hour 15-minute to 1 hour 45-minute flight costing $387. It delivers stunning views of Denali, Kahiltna Glacier, and the Alaska Range, with an option to upgrade to a glacier landing.

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting an efficient yet detailed aerial tour. Reviewers praise the “stunning and breathtaking” views, including the chance to see the “biggest mountain in North America.”

Bottom Line: A compact, high-impact flight for those short on time but eager to see the best of Denali’s scenery.

15. Meares Glacier Cruise Excursion from Valdez

Completing our list, the Meares Glacier Cruise offers an 8-hour day exploring ice, wildlife, and history. For about $195, you’ll cruise Prince William Sound, witness calving glaciers, and see whales, sea otters, and puffins. The day includes a hearty lunch and expert narration.

Guests call it “incredible” and “the best experience,” especially noting the chance to see ice fall from the glacier and abundant wildlife. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a full-day ocean adventure.

Bottom Line: An extensive, wildlife-rich cruise that combines glacier views with cultural insights.

How to Choose Your Alaska Adventure

When selecting from these incredible tours, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For example, if soaring above Denali’s peaks with a glacier landing sounds appealing, the Denali Experience Flightseeing provides a top-notch introduction. Want to combine scenic views with active participation? The Helicopter Glacier Dogsled offers a full package of flying, hiking, and mushing.

If you prefer a longer, wildlife-focused day, the Columbia Glacier Cruise is perfect. For those who want a quick but exhilarating aerial view, the Mountain Voyager delivers stunning scenery efficiently. And winter travelers shouldn’t miss the chance to mush on snow with Mush Your Own Sled Dog Team.