glacier tours soldotna alaska

For inquiries or to book by phone, call

1.888.478.3346

• 4 hr. Spring Resurrection Bay Tour
• 5 hr. Resurrection Bay Tour with Fox Island
• 5.5 hr. Glacier Dinner Cruise
• 6 hr. Kenai Fjords National Park Tour
• 8 hr. Northwestern Fjord Tour
• 8.5 hr. National Park Tour with Fox Island
• Fox Island History
• Room with a Cruise
• Private Charters

Pick Your Adventure

Alaska’s Best wildlife and glacier cruise.

There’s no telling what magical sights await as you journey up the coast from Seward on one of our unique ocean cruises, fully narrated by our experienced captains and knowledgeable crew. One thing is for certain: the abundant wildlife and incredible landscapes — from tumbling glaciers and lush forests to towering walls of rock — you’ll see on our wildlife and glacier cruises in Kenai Fjords National Park will create memories to last a lifetime.

Lock in the best rate when you book in advance Ages 1 and under cruise free Cancel up to 4 days before your trip for a full refund

For inquiries or to book by phone: 1.888.478.3346

2024 Tour Dates: March 14 – September 29, 2024

Kenai Fjords Tours Safety Promise Guest Information & Reservation Policy

The six-hour tour of the Kenai Fjords National Park was dazzling in a whole new way.

Great tour. Crew was amazing, accommodating, and helpful! Saw lots of orcas, humpbacks, sea lions, otters, bald eagles, puffins and big chunks of ice falling off the glacier! Captain was great at pointing things out and very knowledgeable.

Nothing could have prepared me for the sensory stimulation of this six-hour adventure.

We did the Kenai Fjords National Park Tour with Dinner on Fox Island and had a lot of fun! It was exciting to see the glaciers, and a bunch of wildlife. Crew was also extremely helpful and accommodating.

I booked the (Glacier) dinner cruise and am so happy that we did because it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We saw everything from mountain goats to orcas, breaching humpback whales, sea lions, and glaciers. The captain of the tour was awesome.

Book Early And Save

Why choose kenai fjords tours.

We are the original Kenai Fjords wildlife and glacier cruise operator  

All tours include meals and complimentary off-site parking nearby

All tours depart from Seward and are hosted by our experienced captain and on-board guides

Comfortable, modern boats with spacious viewing decks

Exclusive stops at the beautiful and secluded Fox Island    

Countless photo opportunities of the surrounding wildlife and scenery

Cruise & Kayak packages available for an unforgettable adventure  

Our team is committed to the wellbeing of all guests throughout their journey.

Learn more about the experience

$1 from each ticket supports the Alaska SeaLife Center's marine research, education, and wildlife response and rehabilitation programs.

Kenai Fjords Tours are proud partners of Whale SENSE — promoting responsible whale watching since 2017.

We are certified by Adventure Green Alaska as a tourism business that practices economic, environmental, social and cultural sustainability.

Fox Island Experience

Just 12 miles by boat from Seward, Fox Island and Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge are a world away from all you know. Renowned for jagged cliffs and pristine pebble beaches, they are a must-see for Alaska visitors.

Enjoy skipping rocks or a walk through nature. Then stop at the Fox Island Day Lodge for our signature dining experience.

Save more with these Alaska Travel Deals

SAVE 25% by bundling your stay at Seward Windsong Lodge with a Kenai Fjords Tours cruise. Blackout dates apply.

Local residents save 20% on Kenai Fjords Tours. Proof of residency and consent to receive email offers from Pursuit required.

Get a deal on your next Alaska adventure — book your Kenai Fjords Tour early online and save!

Stories from Kenai Fjords

The #kenaifjordstours experience.

Connect with @KenaiFjordsTours on       

A member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).

The well-being of our guests and staff has always been our top concern. This season we are continuing to take appropriate measures to ensure you can travel with confidence.

Read our full Covid safety promise

1.800.808.8068   |  CONTACT US

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• Denali – The Great One
• Lake Clark National Park Tour
• Glacier Explorer/Knik Glacier
• Mt. Spurr/Alaska Range
• Explorers Choice
• Bush Pilot Adventure
• Custom Flightseeing Charters
• FAQ’S

BEAR VIEWING/ LAKE CLARK

Your dedicated guide/bush pilot will take you on the trip of a lifetime.

DENALI – THE GREAT ONE

Our 4 hour tour will take you to the heart of the spectacular Alaska Range.

GLACIER EXPLORER

This spectacular tour explores the vastness of the Chugach National Forest.

MT.SPURR/ALASKA RANGE

Mount Spurr is a volcano in the Rim of Fire and located in the Alaska Range Mountains.

EXPLORERS CHOICE

This fun trip is designed as a very flexible tour and based on customer choice and interest.

ALASKA BUSH PILOT

Ready for this? We take you up in the Alaskan hot rod – the Piper Super Cub.

CUSTOM CHARTERS

Want to explore Talkeetna, Soldotna, Kenai or Seward? Zip Line, horseback ride, backcountry ski, hike a glacier, or dogsled? Miss your cruise connection or simply tired of the bus? Contact us with your needs, we have your plane waiting!

OUR DENALI VIDEO

The most faq’s, why should i book a trip through alaska air service.

Our family run operation excels in smaller, custom and personal touch experiences.

Every seat is a window seat. Every aircraft uses Bose premium noise cancelling headphones. Tour with Alaska locals. Perfect safety record. Tour options for every budget and schedule. In-flight communication system with personal narration by your professional pilot. 100% refund if your tour is cancelled by Alaska Air Service due to inclement weather or your ship is late and we cannot reschedule.

WHAT DO THE PASSENGER MIMIMUMS MEAN?

Some of our tours and aircraft have higher operating costs and need more travelers to share this cost. Some of these trips have a minimum number and we can’t book these flights until these minimums are met. Send us a message with your requests and we’ll work hard to meet them. We may suggest a full aircraft charter rate for that really personal experience or we can often pair you up with others in the same situation. We’ll even partner you up with other Alaska explorers and other great companies if we have to!

If you would like to book one of these tours but do not have the minimum number of passengers, please contact us and we will do our best to assist you. Also, if you are a cruise ship passenger, we suggest posting within the cruise ship boards to find additional passengers to book a trip with you.

CAN WE BOOK AT THE LAST MINUTE?

What is your cancellation policy.

Your confirmed reservation requires a 50% deposit to indicate you’ll be ready to travel on the dates you select. We aren’t looking to keep your money and realize unforeseen things can happen to your schedule. If you need to cancel prior to your date of travel you will get a complete refund, please let us know as soon as possible so we can free up the seats for another explorer! We usually have some flexibility in re-booking, but if we reserve a seat for you, you’ll have one waiting! We want you to be equally fair in return by advising us, as soon as possible, of any challenges in making your trip.

If your tour is cancelled by Alaska Air Service due to inclement weather or your ship is late and cannot reschedule your tour, we will provide you a 100% refund.

If you have questions regarding our cancellation policy or have any other questions please email us or call us at (907) 694-8687 .

See all of the FAQ’S HERE

(800) 548-3474

Soldotna, AK

Glacier Tours

Nothing says Alaska like the Kenai Peninsula’s massive alpine glaciers. To truly understand this breathtaking scenery, you have to see it for yourself! On our fly-out glacier tours, you can expect to see Rocky Mountain goats, Dall sheep and various other wildlife all from the comfort of our professionally piloted and guided float planes. These trips are an adventure like none other for photographers and spectators alike.

Available from June to August, these tours last approximately one hour. Contact our staff today with any questions or to reserve your tour.

You can arrange for a Fly-Out day trip either separately, or as part of our fishing packages.

• Year-round Guided Glacier Tours, 2 Hours North of Anchorage, Alaska

Year-round Guided Matanuska Glacier Tours Only 2 Hours from Anchorage, Alaska

• Summer Glacier Tours
• Winter Glacier Tours
• Immersive Glacier Tours
• Matanuska Glacier Access
• Tour Reviews
• Glacier Blog
• Book a Tour
• Directions to Matanuska Glacier
• Matanuska Glacier Weather
• Restaurants Near Matanuska Glacier
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Employment & Internship

Take a Glacier Tour on Alaska’s

Matanuska glacier, take a glacier tour on alaska’s matanuska glacier, matanuska glacier tours in alaska.

Book direct for best pricing, $150 total.

GUIDED GLACIER TOURS d eparting daily at 10am, 11am, 1pm, & 2pm. Text or call us directly for guided glacier tours. Text 24/7: (907) 232-9046 – Call (907) 745-2534 .

Calls will be answered 10AM-5PM Alaska Standard Time.

Find us 2 hours northeast of Anchorage on the Glenn Highway, a designated Scenic Byway!

Text or call us with questions regarding transportation to and from Glacier Park.

GUIDED GLACIER TOURS departing daily at 10am, 11am, 1pm, & 2pm. Text or call us directly for guided glacier tours.

Text 24/7: (907) 232-9046 Call: (907) 745-2534

FALL: COLORS & CHANGE

Marvel at contrasting sunny skies and multi-storied ice, and the best photo opps around.

Bring your Camera

Is an Alaska Glacier Tour on your bucket list? Prepare to be amazed .

Fall: COLORS & CHANGE

Marvel at contrasting sunny skies and multi-storied ice, plus the best photo opps around .

From magnificent mountains to complex ice formations, prepare to be amazed.

Call or text us!

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 276 customer reviews.

Experience the magnificent Matanuska Glacier up close.

For quick assistance please call (907) 745-2534 , or send a text message to (907) 232-9046 .

Need Directions to your Matanuska Glacier tour?

Drive the famous Glenn Highway, Scenic byway! Roads are maintained every day throughout the year. Enjoy the drive without worry!

Where To Find Us

For quick assistance please call (907) 745-2534 or send a text message to (907) 232-9046 .

Glacier Tours is located 2+ hours north of Anchorage, AK on S Glacier Park Rd. found at Mile 102 of Glenn Highway.

Matanuska Glacier Questions & Answers

Is matanuska glacier open.

Yes, Matanuska Glacier is open for guided tours year-round.

Can you walk on Matanuska Glacier?

During the guided tour, you can walk on the glacier. The tours are about 2-3 hours long. You will walk from the guide shack out to the terminus of the Matanuska Glacier.

Our experienced guides will tell you all about the history of this magnificent glacier and the surrounding landscape.

How far is Matanuska Glacier from Palmer?

The Matanuska Glacier is about a one-hour drive from downtown Palmer. Always give yourself extra time to get to your destination.

How difficult is the walking and terrain?

Recent glacier tours blog posts ►.

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See Blue Ice On The Matanuska Glacier

Article updated October 30, 2023 originally published: January 12, 2018 Explore the Mystical Blue Ice [...]

Freeze Up: The Transition from Summer to Winter on the Matanuska Glacier

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During the guided tour, you can walk on the glacier. The tours are about 2-3 hours long.

You will walk from the lodge out to the terminus of the Matanuska Glacier.

Our experienced guides will tell you about the history of this magnificent glacier as you trek.

In the winter, we can accommodate all ability levels, even those who are unable to walk.

We can accommodate in the summer as well with custom tours but please know the terrain is different; it is uneven ice covered with gravel and rocks.

Glacier Tours Blog Posts ►

Do you want to guide for us send us your resume, applicants must have outdoor experience, hold a current cpr/aed and first aid certification, and be able to withstand harsh conditions in a flexible environment., please submit resume and cover letter to [email protected]. .

Prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime. Our Alaska glacier guides are ready to explore!

• Most Popular!

Zipline Adventure Tour

Quick Details

• Clock Duration: 1.5 hours
• User Age Requirement: Ages 8+

Matanuska Glacier Zipline Adventure

Line 1: the nitro.

Take a short hike, then ascend the three-story tower to start your flight. Enjoy a great view of the surrounding mountains and the river.

Then take the “leap of faith” and fly. The anticipation will get your palms sweaty, and the initial drop will really get your heart pumping. Fly down the cable, then enter the forest and coast to the end of the line. Many people find that first step challenging, but after that gravity does the work!

• Length: 1,500 feet (457 meters, over a quarter mile)
• Speed: 30 – 40 miles per hour
• Height: The launch tower is 30 feet high on a hill 150 feet above the river.

Please note:

• Minimum age: 8 years
• Minimum weight: 60 lbs
• Maximum weight: 235 lbs (Consider riding the G2 if under 285lbs)
• Max waist/hip size: 46 inches

Line 2: The G2

We drive you to the top of the cliff, over 250 feet above the Matanuska River. Enjoy the amazing view of the mountains, river, and glacier before stepping off the deck for a high-speed zip over 2,200 feet long!

There are dual ziplines, so you can race a friend to the end of the line!

Launching for the G2 is an entirely different experience from the Nitro, and some people find it easier. But the thrill will hit you 2 seconds later when you go over the edge of the cliff and the ground drops 250 feet!

• Length: 2,200 feet (670 meters, almost a half mile)
• Speed: 45 – 60 miles per hour (maximum recorded speed is 63 mph.)
• Height: The launch deck is 12 feet high on a cliff 250 feet above the river.
• Maximum weight: 285 lbs

Not up for both? Use the code G2only when booking to save $20 and ride just the G2.

Part of a joint venture with MICA Guides

• Chevron down Location Information

Located at Mile Marker 99 of the Glenn Highway, this Alaska zipline is sure to get your heart racing!

Check in right off the Glenn Highway at our Howdy Hall building. From there, you’ll fill out some paperwork, get harnessed up, and your guides will do the rest!

This is a guided tour. Allow for 1.5 hours with a full group.

• Chevron down Zipline and Glacier Tour combos

“There’s more to do in Glacier View!”

If you are making the drive out to Glacier View, why not take full advantage of what the area has to offer? Below are our suggestions for pairing your zipline with other activities in the area, with time for lunch before or after your tour.

Ice Fall Trek

Each Ice Fall Trek will last approximately 4 hours. 

• If your trek begins at 9:30 a.m., start your Zipline Adventure at 3:30 or 5:30 p.m.
• If your trek begins at 11:30 a.m., start your Zipline Adventure at 5:30 p.m.
• If your trek begins at 2 p.m., begin your day with an 11 a.m. Zipline Adventure.
• If your trek begins at 4 p.m., begin your day with an 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. Zipline Adventure.

Advanced Trek

If you are booked onto an Advanced Trek, end your day with a 5:30 p.m. Zipline Adventure. This does make for a long day, so consider spending the night with us at Alpenglow Luxury Camping

Unfortunately, for timing purposes, a Matanuska Glacier Ice Climb and the Zipline Adventure would need to be split over two days.

Helicopter Tours

Fly on the zipline and fly on a helicopter! Contact us about tour timing. Helicopter Adventures

Related Adventures

• User Ages 8+
• Clock 4 – 8 hours

Matanuska Glacier Trek

If you would like to explore the Matanuska Glacier, join our partners at MICA Guides for the Ice Fall Trek or Ice Climbing.

• Clock 25 Minutes to Overnight

Helicopter Adventures

Experience the Matanuska Glacier and surrounding peaks and valleys from the air. See blue pools, big crevasses, and an eagle-eye view of the immense river of ice.

Soldotna Alaska

A hub of salmon fishing on the Kenai, one of Alaska’s most beautiful rivers.

• Destinations

Quick Links

Soldotna aspen hotel.

• Homer Alaska
• Southcentral Alaska

Trip Finder

The town of Soldotna sits on the west side of the Kenai Peninsula. Mt. Redoubt, an active volcano that last erupted in 2009, can be seen among other snow-capped peaks across the Cook Inlet. The salmon-rich Kenai River runs through the center of town, making Soldotna a top destination for those hoping to catch a few of Alaska's famous wild salmon.

For thousands of years, the area around what would become Soldotna was inhabited by Dena'ina Alaska Natives. Russian fur traders arrived for a time in the 1700s. After World War II, the area was opened for homestead filing, bringing a more permanent population. The name "Soldotna" was taken from Soldotna Creek and is thought to originate from either the Russian word for soldier or the Athabascan word meaning stream fork. Today there are roughly 3,700 year-round residents, though the town swells with a huge influx of tourists and local fishermen every summer.

In addition to fishing, Soldotna is a mecca for outdoor activities ranging from horseback riding, hiking, rafting, and flightseeing to cross country skiing and snow machining. For those wanting a more urban experience, there is a golf course, movie theater, swimming, bowling, and many family-friend parks.

Accommodations are readily available in Soldotna. At Alaska Tour & Travel, we book the Soldotna Aspen Hotel , an all-suites hotel with kitchenette-equipped rooms. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, as well as local craft breweries, shopping, and cultural events. Check out the Soldotna Visitors Center, located right on the banks of the Kenai River, for information about local events and things to do around the area.

Soldotna is a three-hour drive from Anchorage. Those who'd like to explore further can venture to the nearby towns of Kenai or Seward , as both are fairly close, or drive down to Homer , Alaska's favorite beach town.

Located on the Kenai River, the Soldotna Aspen Hotel provides comfortable accommodations in the heart of southcentral Alaska's famous salmon fishing region. Rates in the all-suite hotel include a daily continental breakfast buffet. Learn More >

Soldotna Lodging

The best lodging options in the heart of the Kenai Peninsula, one of Alaska's prime spots for fishing and outdoor recreation. Learn More >

Results For Sightseeing Tours Listings

Alaska is full of wild scenes and animals! See why we love the Kenai Peninsula and all the amazing scenes here on a sightseeing tour. Whether you are in a boat, on a plane or kayak you are sure to be left in awe!

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Alaska’s Glaciers, Hot Springs and Northern Lights

Walk on a glacier, soak in hot springs and watch for the northern lights - experience it all.

Photo Journey:

Home » Tours » Alaska’s Glaciers, Hot Springs and Northern Lights

Tour Overview

Do it all on this tremendous winter tour in Alaska with two nights in Anchorage, glacier hiking on Matanuska Glacier, and two nights at Chena Hot Springs for the ultimate prize: northern lights viewing! You’ll start out exploring Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city. The town is nestled between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet and offers abundant shopping and many restaurants. Then, take a scenic trip north to the massive Matanuska Glacier, where an experienced glacier guide will walk over ancient blue ice while you look for towering ice spires and stunning ice caves. Next, continue your winter journey north to Fairbanks aboard the Alaska Railroad . Your final destination is Chena Hot Springs Resort, known for its natural mineral hot springs and a prime location for viewing the northern lights (aurora borealis). In addition to world-class aurora viewing, this Alaska resort near Fairbanks offers guests lots of outdoor fun, including cross-country skiing, dog sledding tours, snowmobiling, and more. Guests can relax and rejuvenate in the resort’s hot springs and warm pools or enjoy a professional massage. With various Alaska winter activities, this “Glacier, Hot Springs and Northern Lights” adventure tour provides travelers a highly memorable Alaska reward

What's Included

• 4 nights accommodation in moderate class hotel in Anchorage and Fairbanks
• 8-hour Matanuska Glacier Adventure, including lunch
• Train from Anchorage to Fairbanks
• Round-trip transfers from Fairbanks
• 2 nights at Chena Hot Springs Resort in the Moose Lodge building (room with private bath)
• Two days pool passes for Chena Hot Springs
• 4-hour Aurora Viewing Expedition tour at Chena Hot Springs (in tracked, military-style Small Unit Support Vehicle)
• All taxes and fees

What's Not Included

Meals, optional excursions and gratuity.

Tour Itinerary

Arrival in anchorage.

Arrive in Anchorage and the rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy Alaska’s largest city. Overnight in Anchorage.

Anchorage - Matanuska Glacier Adventure

Today’s adventures begin with a pick up from your Anchorage hotel. Your Glacier Guide will narrate points of interest during the scenic 100-mile drive north through the Matanuska-Susitna Valley on your way to the mighty Matanuska Glacier. Photo stops will be made along the way so that you can capture the stunning valley and mountain peaks. Once you have arrived at Matanuska Glacier, your experienced Glacier Guide will outfit each person with ice cleats, walking sticks, and helmets for their safety. This fully guided glacier experience on foot will allow you to meander along the surface of ancient blue ice while you explore towering ice spires and gorgeous ice caves. Your time on the glacier will be from 2 to 3 hours. The glacier walk is considered a moderate activity with an elevation gain of approx. 140 ft (2 flights of stairs). A lunch is included either before or after your glacier hike. Overnight in Anchorage.

NOTE: Additional warm supplemental winter outerwear can be requested at the time of booking.

Anchorage to Fairbanks

In the morning, you’ll take the hotel courtesy shuttle to the Anchorage train station. Here you will board the famous Alaska Railroad and travel through beautiful Alaska’s winter landscape to Fairbanks. During the train ride, enjoy spectacular views of the Alaska Range and possibly even the mountain of Denali (weather permitting). You will arrive in Fairbanks in the evening and transfer to the hotel via hotel courtesy shuttle. Overnight in Fairbanks.

Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs Resort: Mineral Springs and Northern Lights Viewing

Sleep in this morning, then, around mid-day, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to rustic Chena Hot Springs Resort, 90 minutes east of Fairbanks. While the facilities of the resort can be considered rustic and may not be up to date, the location of the resort offers great possibilities for northern lights viewing.  Chena Hot Springs hosts mineral spring-fed hot tubs and a warm indoor swimming pool, providing guests with total relaxation. Combined with numerous outdoor activities, Chena Hot Springs offers a great Alaskan winter experience. This evening, enjoy a 4-hour Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) Expedition tour. The aurora tour takes place on a tracked, military style Small Unit Support Vehicle*. Overnight at Chena Hot Springs Resort.

Chena Hot Springs Resort Fun: Dogsledding, Snowmobiling, Cross Country Skiing, Massages

The day is at your leisure to enjoy all the resort has to offer. Optional activities include dog sled rides, snow machine tours, or cross country skiing, and professional massages. Winter gear can be rented at the resort for a fee. Don’t miss visiting the Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs. Overnight at Chena Hot Springs Resort.

Chena Hot Springs Resort to Fairbanks

This morning, you will be transferred back to Fairbanks. The afternoon is free for you go enjoy optional Fairbanks city tours and visit local attractions. Overnight in Fairbanks.

Departure from Fairbanks

Take the hotel shuttle to the airport for your departure or start an additional winter tour.

* Please note that during the tour you will be sitting in a small confined space with other people.

Dates & Rates

Our standard program includes:, 2 and 3 star hotel accommodations..

The program will include a combination of hotels or motels that are considered moderate to standard tourist class. Please be aware not all hotels have shuttle services.

Standard train car seating on all rail services (reserved seats).

If you would like to book the standard program but with upgraded rail seating, the option and surcharge will be listed when you save to your cart.

Our Upgraded Program Includes:

* 3 and 4 star hotels (best available) wherever possible..

The program will include standard rooms at this category of hotel where possible. Alaska has very limited hotel choices in remote areas and small towns. The properties will typically offer a wider range of services such as a full-service restaurant, room service and perhaps a pool or spa facilities. Please be aware the upgraded accommodations in downtown Anchorage do not have hotel shuttle services. Many of the upgraded hotels also offer guaranteed view rooms for additional cost. If you would like a specific room type, in addition to the upgraded program, please ask us about availability and cost difference.

Deluxe dome train car seating between Anchorage, Denali and Fairbanks, or Anchorage and Seward.

All journeys between Anchorage and Whittier are in standard seating as deluxe dome cars are not available on that route.

Contact us to book this Tour.

Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.

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• * Last Name: *
• Questions or Special Requests:
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

We wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed our trip to Alaska. Everything went really smoothly as far as the vouchers, travel and lodging. We really appreciated the way you answered our questions and helped us plan our trip. IT WAS A TRIP OF A LIFETIME!  We will highly recommend... Read more  

Bill & Shirley | Kentucky

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See Alaska in a way few will see it in their lifetimes!

Experience the Exhilaration

2024 summer early bird 15% off sale – promo code 24ebd , click here for more details.

Why Helicopters?

That’s easy - they’re more fun! They can hover in front of massive glacier walls, over majestic waterfalls, and land on mountain tops with expansive views of wild Alaska!

Plus they’re more comfortable than airplanes and offer amazing unobstructed views.​

The Best Way to See Alaska!

Glacier Landing Tours

Glacier Dogsled Tours

Flightseeing Tours

Small Group Tours

Private Tours

Weddings/Anniversaries

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Experience the grandeur of Alaska with exceptional:

Our helicopter rides in Alaska have a perfect safety record, consistent  5-star ratings , and guests that keep on sending us their friends and family. Our customer team behind the scenes are all Alaskan travel veterans, used to working with guests and tour companies from all over the world. They can help you find and book the perfect trip, set up transfers, and design that customized once-in-a-lifetime adventure you are planning for your loved ones.

Fly with Alaska Helicopter Tours and see why we offer the best way to experience Alaska. We’ve been in the aviation industry since 1985 and enjoy sharing Alaska’s most remarkable destinations.

Alaska Helicopter Tours offers helicopter flightseeing, glacier dogsled tours, heli hiking, ice climbing, glacier paddleboarding, glacier hiking, and custom adventures from the Knik Glacier valley in the Chugach Mountains (just north-east of Anchorage). Our pilots and guides are amazing and thoroughly enjoy showing you some of the most beautiful spots in Alaska.

CONVENIENCE

​ Multiple Departure Locations

Our helicopter rides in Alaska have the number 1 safety record, consistent  5-star ratings , and guests that keep on sending us their friends and family. Our customer team behind the scenes are all Alaskan travel veterans, used to working with guests and tour companies from all over the world. They can help you find and book the perfect trip, set up transfers, and design that customized once-in-a-lifetime adventure you are planning for your loved ones.

Our helicopter rides in Alaska have the number 1 safety record, consistent  5-star ratings , and guests that keep on sending us their friends and family. Our customer team behind the scenes are all Alaskan travel veterans, used to working with guests and tour companies from all over the world. They can help you find and book the perfect trip, set up transfers, and design that customized once-in-a-lifetime adventure you are planning for your loved ones.

Alaska Helicopter Tours offers helicopter flightseeing, glacier dogsled tours, heli hiking, ice climbing, glacier paddleboarding, glacier hiking, and custom adventures from the Knik Glacier valley in the Chugach Mountains (just north-east of Anchorage) as well as Bear Viewing, Glacier experiences and Volcano Tours from Homer. Our pilots and guides are amazing and thoroughly enjoy showing you some of the most beautiful spots in Alaska.

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YEAR ROUND TOURS

60-Min Knik Landing Tour

SUMMER ONLY

Heli Dogsled & Glacier Tour

Grand Knik Tour

Glacier Paddle Boarding

Heli Hiking

Summer Ice Climbing

HELI & E-MOUNTAIN BIKING

Winter Heli Ice Climbing

Winter Glacier Exploration

Heli - Packrafting

Lake Clark VIP Bear Viewing

Heli - Rock Climbing

Heli - Mountain Running

Surprise Proposal

Anchorage City Tour

Anchorage Mountains & Ocean

Heli Snowshoe Adventure

Overnight Packages

Glacier Swim and Hike

Create a Private, Custom Heli Tour

View Our Glacier Helicopter Tours 

Simply the best way to see Alaska!  Join us on an exciting helicopter tour and experience Alaska from the air.

We're dedicated to making your Alaska Helicopter Tour an enjoyable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Take a look at past guest reviews!

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

Wonderful Experience

Booked this as a surprise for my husband and to say he was thrilled is an understatement. The staff that checked us in were very friendly and organized. Went over safety and weighed in before boarding. Our pilot, Josh was wonderful. Josh was informative and helpful. This is an amazing experience. The glacier is beautiful and we brought a bottle to drink the water. Cool that you can hear the glacier crack. So glad we did this!

best glacier exploration tour!

My whole camera roll is of our heli tour! We did a glacier exploration tour (2hours) where we flew and landed next to the glacier and hiked along the walls. It was absolutely incredible. Michael and Kate were the best pilot/guide we could ask for! We got so lucky with sun & beautiful weather even in the winter! I cannot wait to come back in the summer to experience more of their tours. The helicopter flight and views absolutely do not compete with any other experience. It was worth every penny!!! Would do it again in a heartbeat!

Took my elderly mum on the heli-dog and extra glacier landing trip! Amazing! They took very good care of her and everyone was so very patient and kind. Don’t even hesitate to include the extra glacier landing!! It is straight out awesome and so very special! It is definitely worth the extra cost !!!

Amazing Experience

This was hands down the best experience we’ve had in Alaska. We hit the glacier tour with landing. Our pilot was knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He explained what we were seeing - from why the ice is blue to moulins and more! Walking on the Knik Glacier was surreal. Highly recommend.

Not sure where to start?

Talk to one of our experienced alaska travel experts to help book your next heli tour.

(907) 272-7777

(800) 469-0177

Call our local number at (907) 272-7777, or call us toll-free at (800) 469-0177, or you can email us.

Operating Schedule

Our winter office hours are 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. From May 1st through September 15th, we are available from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

Alaska Glacier Lodge

29979 E Knik River Rd

Palmer, AK 99645

Tel:  907-272-7777

Email: [email protected]

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Experience the Best Adventure on these Sensational Alaska Glacier Tours

There are a few things that rise to the top of my adventure list, and seeing and walking on a glacier in Alaska is right at the top. It’s a phenomenal experience, allowing you to access relatively untouched parts of the world and see ice frozen for thousands of years.

If you’ve ever thought about walking on a glacier in Alaska, you’re in the right place. With more glaciers than anywhere else in America, these Alaska glacier tours will offer you the chance to do something you’ve likely never done or seen before.

Inside, we will discuss the top Alaska glacier tours and some bonus ones you can fly into! Let’s get going, shall we?!

Helpful Guide to Experience Alaska Glacier Tours

Mantanuska Glacier

This is the closest glacier to Anchorage and is quite epic. You’ll get a full-day tour to explore the Mantanuska Glacier and see what life is like on the ice. This is one of the most accessible glacier walks in the United States.

That said, with proximity comes commotion. It will be crowded, and you’ll be more or less ushered in and out on a schedule. Still, it should be worth it to cross off an item on many people’s bucket lists.

Root Glacier

This was my favorite Alaska glacier tour when we did our trip in 2021. Tucked into the eastern side of the state in Wrangell St. Elias National Park , our small group basically had the Root Glacier to ourselves.

Mendenhall Glacier

This one is right up there with the Mantanuska Glacier for being super accessible. The Mendenhall Glacier is minutes from Juneau and is the area’s most popular thing to do. There seem to be a ton of Alaska glacier tours here, so I wouldn’t be worried about making a last-minute decision.

(Though, if you know you’re going, book it early .)

Kenai Fjords National Park Glaciers

Kenai Fjords National Park is almost completely covered in ice, and 98% of it is untouched by human feet. The single part that is accessible is the Exit Glacier hike near Seward. That said, most people take an epic boat cruise throughout the fjords, getting to at least see the national park and its incredible features.

Exit Glacier

In 2021, we hiked here in mid-May, and the trail to the top with expansive views was still too snowed in. This meant we did the Exit Glacier Overlook trail. It’s around 2 miles with decent elevation gain for the back half.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, head to the Harding Icefield. This nine-mile hike has 3,200 feet of elevation gain. Depending on whether you go down to the ice (which isn’t technically on the trail), plan to be on the trail for six to nine hours.

Boat Tours to See Glaciers

I can’t recommend this enough! We got lucky, had blue skies for our trip, and saw some amazing sights—bears, orcas, whales, birds, sea lions, and a puffin. If you go to Seward, you HAVE TO do this tour .

Check out other tours in the Seward area, including whale watching, kayaking, helicopter rides, and more!

Knik Glacier

The Knik Glacier is tucked away southeast of Palmer and is predominately visited by helicopter. So, if you’re up for seeing something unbelievably epic and landing on a glacier, this trip is for you!

Glacier Bay National Park Glaciers

To get into Glacier Bay National Park, you must be on a cruise or a tour boat. There’s really no other way to do it unless you own a Yacht, and I doubt they’re my audience.

The most popular ones you’ll see are Margerie Glacier, Johns Hopkins Glacier, Clark Glacier, and Lamplugh Glacier. I’m sure more are visible, but I haven’t been to this area yet, and I’d just be listing names of people buried for decades.

If you want to see Glacier Bay National Park, I suggest booking a tour or finding your way to Gustavus. You’ll find companies who will take you in from there.

Unfortunately, I don’t think these Alaska glacier tours will let you physically walk on any in this area.

Byron Glacier

This is a free one!

When we headed to the Byron Glacier, it was cloudy and cold, so we didn’t exactly get a great display of nature. It’s a 2.5-mile hike, though I’m pretty sure we only went a mile. Whittier and Portage Lake are nearby, making it a nice place to stop if you have a campervan and you’re heading down into the Kenai Peninsula .

I recommend this later in the summer when you can see more of the views, and it’s not totally snow-covered.

Whittier Glacier

Get out onto beautiful Prince William Sound from Whittier, AK, and see the magic! This stunning area is less than 90 minutes from Anchorage. You will not be disappointed by this Alaska glacier tour.

Portage Glacier

At the back of Portage Lake is the Portage Glacier. From photos, this looks like a great excursion with fantastic views. Again, we were here in cruddy weather, and I don’t think they are running tours yet. So, if your trip to Alaska is after June 1, I’d assume the Alaska glacier tours will be available.

Columbia Glacier

Due to the length of your trip, visiting Valdez isn’t feasible for most visitors. But if you do happen to make it down, it is a gorgeous area. We had less-than-ideal weather, but it’s home to amazing skiing, wildlife, and glaciers.

If you want a free option, you can see the following as you drive into town:

• Worthington Glacier
• Hogback Glacier
• Tsina Glacier
• Valdez Glacier

Fly and Land on an Alaskan Glacier

These are much more expensive than hiking or boat tours, but you’ll be in the middle of something incredible. Plus, it’ll likely only be a small group, providing a memorable experience without crowds you’ll never forget.

I haven’t done a heli-landing, but I did land on a glacier in Denali National Park during a flightseeing trip from Talkeetna . That was pretty freaking epic! It was surreal to start above the jagged peaks and then circling down to where you’re now looking up at them.

Here’s a list of unforgettable moments that are waiting for you!

• Denali Flight and Glacier Landing (I did this one, and holy smokes! So cool!)
• Alaska Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing
• Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour
• See the Knik Glacier
• Glacier Landing Tour from Girdwood

Find The Top Alaska Glacier Tours for Your Trip

Should You See A Glacier When Visiting Alaska?

I know there are a lot of costs to make it to Alaska, and for many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see wildlife and amazing landscapes. So, I can’t blame you for opting out of an Alaska glacier tour. But, if your financial situation allows it, I strongly recommend you get out onto a glacier.

It’s an otherworldly experience, you’ll learn cool facts, and get to snag epic photos. And you’ll get to tell your friends back home that you walked on a glacier. Nothing cooler than that!

What to Wear for your Alaska Glacier Tour

Your weather will dictate what you wear. On my trip, it was overcast, and I had the following outfit.

• Beanie and/or Hat
• Long Sleeve Shirt
• Down Vest (though a normal down jacket is fine)
• Hiking Pants
• Hiking day pack

How cold can it get on a glacier?

The change is almost instantaneous and dramatic. You’ll go from walking on dirt to being entirely surrounded by ice. For our Root Glacier hike , we had to walk 1.5 miles before hitting the glacier. Because of this, we had warmed up.

Still, I could feel the temperature drop really quickly.

Should You Go Without A Guide?

The technical answer is you can do whatever you want. Unless it’s gated, glaciers are there for anyone. That said, you should 100% explore Alaska’s glaciers with a guide.

Proper Gear

First, they will provide you with the gear you need to walk on a glacier. While you could do it with microspikes, crampons offer better stability and traction, making your Alaska glacier tour safer.

Secondly, they carry the necessary safety gear if you slip and get hurt.

Glaciers are inherently dangerous places. If you venture into an unstable part, you could fall into a crevasse or, worse, a moulin, which is almost certainly the final act of your life. Furthermore, glaciers are incredibly deceiving. You’d think you could walk miles and miles on them and then realize that you’ve hardly gone anywhere.

Having a tour guide keeps things in perspective and keeps you safe.

Finally, I always loved learning more about the region’s history, glacier facts, and other random Alaska tidbits on these tours. Your guides have a wealth of knowledge and are there to educate you. ( PS: They might even make you hot chocolate with glacier water. )

FAQ: Alaska Glacier Tours

When is the best time to take a glacier tour.

Most tours only run during summer, so June through September is your best bet. This is also the best time to visit Alaska in general when you have long days to explore and travel, warmer temperatures, and hopefully blue skies.

What was the hardest part about walking on a glacier?

Honestly, the crampons are a bit awkward initially, and you have to figure out the proper heel-toe formula not to trip or look drunk. Another tricky thing was to trust yourself.

The crampons have a phenomenal grip, but you have to trust that they will hold as you take a big step. Obviously, being more athletic and having better body control will help, but overall, don’t worry more than you have to.

How long are you on the physical glacier?

This depends on each tour, but for mine, we were there for 90 minutes to 2 hours. It seemed like a pretty good amount of time, and then we had about 40 minutes of hiking to and from.

Final Thoughts on Exploring Alaska’s Glaciers

Alaska glacier tours offer visitors a unique opportunity to witness these natural wonders’ awe-inspiring beauty and power. Whether exploring by boat, hiking on foot, or flying overhead in a helicopter, each tour provides a different perspective and unforgettable experience.

With knowledgeable guides leading the way and opportunities for up-close encounters with calving glaciers and wildlife, these tours will leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this adventure. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Alaska’s icy wilderness, add a glacier tour to your itinerary.

Until next time, adventurers, take care and be safe.

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Author: Alec Sills-Trausch

Title: founder of explore with alec, expertise: hiking, backpacking, photography, and road trips.

Alec Sills-Trausch is a hiker, backpacker, landscape photographer, and syndicated travel writer. He enjoys showing off the beauty of the world through his photos, videos, and written work on ExploreWithAlec.com . Alec is also a 2x cancer survivor and bone marrow transplant recipient, showing the world that there is a future from this terrible disease.

He lives in Washington, where he gets to enjoy the stunning PNW mountains in addition to all the other places he attempts to visit each year! You can see more work on IG at @AlecOutside