Norris Adventure: Seaplane, Paddle and Glacier Hike

Thinking about adding a touch of adventure to your Juneau visit? The Norris Adventure with Above and Beyond Alaska offers a compact, action-packed way to see some of Alaska’s most iconic landscapes in just half a day.

This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about living the true Alaskan experience—flying over glaciers, hiking on the ice, and paddling amidst floating icebergs. If you’re craving an authentic, all-in-one adventure with small-group intimacy, this might be right up your alley.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the combination of scenic flight and active exploration—it’s a rare chance to combine flightseeing, glacier trekking, and packrafting in one smooth, well-organized outing. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly approach which makes even challenging terrains feel accessible.

But keep in mind, this tour demands a good level of physical fitness, and the price is on the higher end, reflecting its exclusive nature.

Ideal for adventurous travelers who want to pack a lot into a short time, this experience suits those who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and love truly immersive outdoor pursuits.

This experience made our article of Which Juneau Canoe & Kayak Experiences To Choose? We Rank The 13 Best.

Key Points

• Unique combination of activities: flightseeing, glacier hiking, and paddling in one trip.
• Small group size: maximum of 6 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• All-inclusive gear: rain gear, rubber boots, paddling equipment, and snacks are provided.
• Expert guides: highly praised for safety, knowledge, and friendliness.
• Limited time on ice: glacier experience depends on weather and group pace.
• Good value for the adventurous: just under 5 hours of diverse activities for the price.

An Overview of the Norris Adventure Experience

This tour condenses a full Alaskan adventure into about five hours, offering an excellent snapshot of Juneau’s wild beauty without requiring a day commitment. It starts with a convenient pickup at a central location, setting the stage for an efficient day packed with excitement.

The adventure kicks off with a scenic 25-minute floatplane flight from Juneau’s airport to Norris Glacier. This flight alone is worth the price, as you’ll soar above rugged coastlines and ice-covered peaks, with views that might make you forget about the activities ahead. The flight is often praised for its stunning vistas, giving you that true sense of Alaska’s grandeur.

Once landed at Norris Glacier’s lake, you’re outfitted with all necessary gear—rain jackets, rubber boots, and paddling equipment. The guides are attentive and safety-conscious, ensuring everyone is comfortable before heading out. This is a trip designed for participants with good physical fitness, as you’ll be hiking over uneven terrain and paddling for about an hour roundtrip.

The Itinerary: What to Expect, Step by Step

Pickup and Gear Up

Your day begins with pickup at 490 S Franklin St in Juneau, where you’ll meet your guides and fellow travelers. The initial hour at the main office is practical—getting outfitted in gear, trying on rain jackets and rubber boots, and using the restrooms. It’s a quick, no-nonsense start that sets a professional tone.

Flight to Norris Glacier

Next, you’ll hop aboard a floatplane for a 25-minute scenic flight. As you ascend, you’ll see Juneau’s rugged coast, lush forests, and glaciers—an aerial perspective that’s tough to beat. Once you land on the glacial-fed Norris Lake, the wilderness truly begins.

Glacier Hike and Exploration

On the lake’s shore, your guides will lead you on a hike across the terrain carved by glaciers, with panoramic views of Norris and Taku glaciers. They carefully assess the conditions and your group’s pace, so the time on the ice may vary. During the hike, look out for features such as crevasses, moulins, and glacier pools—each telling its own icy story.

Packrafting Adventure

The highlight for many is the packraft portion. After a quick tutorial on paddling techniques, you’ll launch single-person inflatable boats into the icy waters, navigating past floating icebergs toward the glacier’s face. Many reviews emphasize how magical this moment is—paddling past glacial ice, with the towering glacier walls providing an awe-inspiring backdrop.

Glacier Exploration on Foot

Once you reach the glacier, it’s time for exploration on foot. Micro-spikes are provided, allowing you to walk on the ice safely. You might see crevasses, blue pools, and moulins—natural features that make each step feel like walking on another planet. Guides will evaluate hazards, so not every feature may be accessible, but the views and ice formations are still unforgettable.

Return Paddle and Flight

The journey back to Norris Lake involves paddling past ice formations once more, then loading up to return to Juneau via floatplane. The entire experience is designed to maximize your time immersed in Alaska’s wilderness while maintaining safety and comfort.

Return and de-gear

Back at the main office, you’ll de-gear, share your highlights, and prepare for transport back to your starting point—usually with a sense of having truly experienced Alaska’s wild heart.

What Travelers Say

Guests consistently praise the small group size, which makes for attentive guides and a more intimate adventure. One reviewer calls it “Best of Alaska,” emphasizing that the trip felt like a “not to be missed opportunity,” with all elements working seamlessly together. Others highlight the stunning scenery, stating that every part—from the flight to the glacier hike—was “amazing” and “beautiful.”

Many mention the knowledgeability of guides; their safety instructions, ice hazard assessments, and storytelling add depth to the trip. Several reviews note how much they valued the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, including a special shout-out for the guides’ ability to make everyone feel comfortable in challenging terrain.

The paddling component receives high praise for being both fun and surreal—paddling past floating ice in a single-person raft is an experience few other tours can match. A reviewer who calls it “incredible” states that the combination of activities was “worth every penny,” especially for those looking for a full, active day in the Alaskan wilderness.

The Price and Its Value

At approximately $785 per person, this tour is definitely a premium experience. However, considering the all-inclusive gear, expert guides, floatplane flight, and the multiple activities, many travelers find it justifiable. The small group size and personalized attention further enhance perceived value, making it a standout among Alaskan adventure tours.

While it isn’t cheap, this tour delivers a full-day’s worth of engaging, authentic experiences—something you won’t easily find in a typical sightseeing trip. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a high-quality, active adventure that’s both educational and exhilarating.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy physical activity, stunning scenery, and unique outdoor pursuits. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable paddling, hiking uneven terrain, and in good physical shape. Families with children aged 10+ and weighing under 250 pounds will appreciate that it’s designed with safety and accessibility in mind.

However, those who prefer a leisurely sightseeing day or have mobility issues might find the itinerary ambitious. Pregnant guests are advised to skip due to the physical nature of the activities. Travelers craving a small-group, personalized experience will also find this tour a rare gem.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip van transportation from the meeting point to the floatplane and back is included, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the entire tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, with most of that time spent actively exploring—so it’s a full but manageable day.

Do I need special skills?
You should be able to paddle for about an hour, hike on uneven terrain, and know how to swim. The guides provide paddling and safety instructions, so no prior experience is necessary.

What about weather?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but safety is paramount. If weather makes it unsafe, the trip may be canceled or re-scheduled.

Can I see ice caves or moulins?
While your guide will assess hazards, visiting specific features like ice caves or moulins cannot be guaranteed.

What gear is provided?
All necessary paddling and glacier equipment, rain gear, and rubber boots are supplied. Just provide your shoe size and rain gear size when booking.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 6 travelers ensures a personalized experience with plenty of guide interaction.

Are there weight restrictions?
Yes, the maximum participant weight is 250 pounds due to plane capacity, and harness fit is up to a 42-inch waist.

Can children join?
Yes, minimum age is 10 years old, making it suitable for families seeking a memorable adventure.

The Sum Up

The Norris Adventure offers a compact yet comprehensive taste of Alaska’s wild side. Combining flightseeing, glacier hiking, and paddling in one exhilarating trip, it provides an authentic sense of the state’s rugged beauty. The small-group format means personalized attention, and the guides’ expertise ensures safety without sacrificing fun.

This tour is best suited for active travelers eager for a full-day, multi-sensory experience that’s as scenic as it is adventurous. If you’re looking for a high-quality excursion that combines multiple elements of Alaska’s natural wonder, this tour delivers rich memories and jaw-dropping views in just five hours.

While the cost is on the higher side, the included gear, expert guides, and unique activities make it a worthwhile investment for those wanting to truly connect with Alaska’s icy heart. It’s not for everyone—expect a physically demanding day and weather-dependent conditions—but for the right adventurer, it’s a trip to remember.

Ready to add this adventure to your Alaska itinerary? Pack your sense of wonder, a good pair of hiking shoes, and an appetite for discovery. The Norris Glacier awaits.