Alaska’s 6 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours (With Prices & Reviews)

Alaska is one of the few places where helicopter flights are not just a luxury but an essential way to see some of the most breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s soaring over towering glaciers, landing on icy peaks, or cruising through remote icefields, these tours give you a perspective few other experiences can match.

Some stand out for their versatility, like the Alaska Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing (check out the details here), which combines a scenic helicopter ride with a walk on ice—perfect for those craving adventure and awe-inspiring views.

Others, like the Valdez Columbia Glacier Spectacular Helicopter Tour (see more), offer extended time airborne to capture incredible photos of massive ice cliffs and calving events.

If you’re after a truly unique experience, consider the Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour (details here). It combines a helicopter flight with an exhilarating dogsled ride on a real glacier, giving you an authentic taste of Alaska’s wild side.

For those wanting to combine adventure with relaxation, the private Helicopter and Glacier Paddle Boarding tour (see more) offers both aerial views and the chance to stand on a glacier-fed lake.

Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of each top helicopter tour, highlighting what makes each one special and suitable for different types of travelers.

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

At number one on our list, this 1-hour helicopter tour provides a beautifully balanced experience—scenic views, a glacier landing, and a chance to explore the icy terrain on foot. Starting from the Alaska Glacier Lodge, the flight offers spectacular vistas of the Knik River and the Knik Glacier—a massive ice sheet that’s often visible from Anchorage.

The highlight is landing directly on or near the glacier (season permitting), giving you the chance for a guided ice hike.

The small group setting ensures a more personal experience, and the reviews reflect that: a 5/5 rating from 647 happy travelers.

What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility and the variety of activities packed into just an hour. The opportunity to step onto a glacier and hike around is rare in typical helicopter tours. Plus, wildlife like moose, bears, and mountain goats often make cameo appearances during the flight, adding another layer of excitement.

The price ($452.17) is reasonable considering the experience and the number of photos you’ll take home. This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, engaging glacier experience without spending a full day.

Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers who want a classic Alaskan glacier experience with the convenience of a short, well-organized tour.

2. Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour – ANCHORAGE AREA

For a truly quintessential Alaskan adventure, the Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour combines a scenic helicopter flight over the Church Range and Knik Glacier with an actual dogsled ride on Troublesome Glacier (see details). It’s a longer, 1 hour 30-minute experience, and the highlight is meeting the champion sled dogs and their mushers, including a chance to mush your own team.

The tour offers an immersive look at Alaska’s wilderness, combining aerial views with the thrill of mushing across a glacier—something few travelers get to do. The helicopter part takes you over stunning ice formations, while the dog sledding brings you face-to-face with Alaska’s working dogs.

The reviews are glowing; travelers praise the breathtaking scenery and the expert pilot who makes the flight both safe and fun.

The price ($616.97) reflects the extended duration and the combination of activities, making it excellent value for an all-in Alaska experience.

This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, animal lovers, or anyone eager to get up close with Alaska’s rugged environment. The only downside might be the price, but considering the uniqueness, it’s a worthwhile splurge.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full-day adventure, blending aerial, land, and dog experiences into one unforgettable trip.

3. Helicopter Glacier Dogsled Tour + Lower Glacier Landing

Number three on our list offers a full-on glacier experience combining helicopter flight, guided glacier walk, and dogsledding—plus a landing on a lower glacier (see more). This 2-hour adventure is tailored for those who want a multi-activity, hands-on experience.

You’ll start at the Alaska Glacier Lodge with a scenic flight over icebergs and crevasses, then land on a glacier for a guided walk that takes you through ice tunnels and pools. The highlight is the mushing on a real snowfield, with a team of champion sled dogs.

The tour’s small size—capped at nine participants—ensures intimacy and safety, and the reviews rave about the spectacular views and the thrill of mushing. The price ($822.97) is on the higher side but reflects the multi-layered experience and exclusivity. Travelers who love adventure, photography, and authentic outdoor activities will find this tour especially rewarding.

Potential downsides include the cost and the physically demanding nature of glacier walking and mushing, which might not suit everyone. But for those wanting to indulge in almost every aspect of Alaska’s wilderness, this tour delivers.

Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers who want a comprehensive glacier experience packed into a single tour.

4. Helicopter and Glacier Paddle Boarding – PRIVATE

If you’re after both aerial vistas and a peaceful paddle, the Helicopter and Glacier Paddle Boarding tour (see more) is your best bet. This private experience offers a mountaintop landing on a remote glacier-fed lake, where you can don a drysuit and paddleboard in crystal-clear waters under towering ice cliffs.

This tour, priced at $1,028.97, is the most personalized and exclusive on our list. The flight provides panoramic views of the wilderness without wings in the way, perfect for wildlife spotting and photography. After landing, the focus shifts to serene paddling amid icy surroundings—an unusual combo that appeals to those who want both thrill and tranquility.

Reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery and top-tier equipment, with many travelers saying it’s an “absolute blast” and “the best decision we made.” The higher price reflects the private setup and the premium experience. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with physical activity, seeking exclusivity, or wanting a customized adventure.

Bottom Line: A top choice for adventurous, well-off travelers wanting a private, multi-sensory experience combining flight and water.

5. Helicopter Glacier Swim & Hike

Number five offers a rare combination: helicopter flight to a glacier, then swimming in icy waters if you’re brave enough. The Glacier Swim & Hike (see details) is designed for those who want an up-close encounter with Alaska’s icy landscape, all while staying warm and safe with a dry suit.

The tour lasts about 2 hours, and your guide will assist as you explore the glacier’s surface, capturing incredible photos. The main attraction is the opportunity to swim in glacier water, which many find invigorating and memorable. The reviews note it’s an awe-inspiring experience that combines adventure with the serenity of the icy environment.

The tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable in cold water and looking for a once-in-a-lifetime activity. The limited reviews suggest it’s a niche, but highly praised experience. The focus on photography and personal challenge makes it stand out.

Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a unique, physically engaging glacier experience.

6. Valdez Columbia Glacier Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Rounding out our list, the Valdez Columbia Glacier Spectacular (check it out) offers more time in the air—about 90 minutes—to explore Alaska’s second-largest tidewater glacier in detail. You’ll fly over towering icebergs, crevasses, and possibly see calving events, with a 30-minute glacier landing for on-the-ground exploration.

This extended experience provides more opportunities for photos and a deeper understanding of Alaska’s glaciers. The seals lounging on ice and mountain goats on cliffs are often visible, adding wildlife viewing to the mix. While it currently has no reviews, its length and scope suggest it’s suited for serious photographers or those wanting a comprehensive glacier encounter.

The price ($767) makes it a slightly more premium option, reflecting the duration and scope. It’s best suited for travelers who want an in-depth glacier experience with plenty of time to absorb the scenery and wildlife.

Bottom Line: For those wanting an extended, immersive glacier experience with plenty of time in the air and on the ice.

How to Choose the Right Alaska Helicopter Tour

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For quick, stunning photos and glacier landings, the Alaska Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing provides excellent value. Want a full-day adventure with dogsledding? The Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour is perfect. Prefer something private and personalized? The Helicopter Glacier Paddle Boarding tour offers that exclusivity.

Also, think about your comfort level with physical activities like glacier walking or swimming. If you’re keen on photography or wildlife viewing, longer tours like the Valdez Columbia Glacier might suit you best. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and experience.

Final Thoughts

Alaska offers a diverse array of helicopter experiences that suit different interests and budgets. From the short but spectacular glacier landings to extended glacier explorations with dogsledding and paddleboarding, the options are impressive. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or looking for a peaceful escape, Alaska’s aerial tours deliver unforgettable views and adventures.

For most travelers, the Alaska Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing balances cost, experience, and accessibility. But if you want a full-on adventure, the Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour or the Paddle Boarding experience will satisfy your craving for something truly special. Whatever you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these once-in-a-lifetime sights.