Among the many ways to experience Alaskan grandeur, the heli-hike tours in Alaska offer a unique and surreal opportunity to immerse oneself in the heart of this frozen wonderland.
With an opportunity to connect with nature in a way that few experiences can match, you can witness the raw power of glaciers.
The Alaskan ice formations seem otherworldly, and heli-hike tours present a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of our planet’s ecosystems.
This article will explain everything you need to know before booking an Alaska heli-hike tour.
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Cost of Alaska heli-hike tours
Helicopter rides can be a costly affair, and their prices may naturally climb a bit higher when they are part of a combo tour, such as a heli-hike tour.
However, it is worth noting that the package combo of hiking and helicopter tours in Alaska may provide greater cost savings compared to booking each activity separately.
This is especially beneficial, factoring in the saved transportation costs as the tours provide hotel transfers.
The cost of Alaska heli-hike tours will fall in the range of US$490 to US$1029 per person.
The cheapest heli-hike experience in Alaska costs approximately US$490 per person and is also the most popular tour of its kind.
Best Alaska glacier heli-hike tours
Below, we have curated a list of some of the best helicopter tours in the country, which also happen to provide the most value for your money.
Anchorage Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing
This heli-hike tour in Alaska not only offers aerial views of the stunning Alaskan landscape, Knik River, and Great Gorge but also allows you to walk on the glacier, see it up close, and drink glacial water.
The guided glacier hike also sets the stage for witnessing native wildlife like moose, bears, and mountain goats.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes with 30 minutes of flight time
Timings: Between 8.45 am and 5 pm
Cost of the tour with transfers
Adults (12+ years): US$490
Child (2 to 11 years): US$439
Cost of the tour without transfers
Adults (12+ years): US$421
Child (2 to 11 years): US$370
Anchorage Heli Hiking
This personalized heli-hiking experience in the Anchorage area is perfect for tourists who want the right balance between luxurious convenience and adventure sports.
The helicopter takes you to beautiful alpine meadows, from where you can decide the length and duration of your guided hike up to as long as 4 hours.
Stay at the base for photographs, cover a mile to get closer to the heavenly beauty, or go all the way up to one of the mountain peaks.
Duration: 4 hours
Timings: 8 am, 12 pm, and 4 pm
Cost
Adult ticket (12+ years): US$679
Child ticket (2 to 11 years): US$627
Heli Glacier Crevasse Ice Climbing
Get sweeping aerial views of the Chugach Mountains and Knik Glacier, landing next to a gigantic crevasse, where you will begin ice climbing under the guidance of skilled experts.
You will be provided safety equipment like harnesses and helmets as you explore the glacier and melt pools along the way.
This 4-hour tour also includes lunch so that you don’t wash out after the ice climb.
Duration: 4 hours with a flight time of 20 minutes
Timings: 8 am, 12 pm, and 4 pm
Departure and end point: Alaska Glacier Lodge, 29979 East Knik River Rd, Palmer, AK 99645, USA. Get directions.
Cost: US$1,029 per person
The Denali National Park Flight with Guided Hike takes you on a scenic flight in a floatplane before making a landing for a guided hike.
Departure point
Hotel transfer facility is available for heli-hike tours in Alaska.
Alternatively, you can also head directly to the below meeting point.
Address: Alaska Glacier Lodge, 29979 East Knik River Rd, Palmer, AK 99645, USA. Get directions.
There are multiple take-offs daily, so book early to get your preferred time slot.
The tour ends back at the meeting point.
Timings of the tour
Many Alaska heli-hike tours take off as early as 8 am and continue until 5 pm.
While most of the tours operate daily, they may get affected by the weather conditions.
There are multiple take-offs daily, so book early to get your preferred time slot.
Most tour operators prefer their participants reach the meeting point 30 minutes before the aircraft’s departure.
Restrictions strictly followed
Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable Alaska heli-hike tours.
A minimum and maximum number of passengers are required on these tours, failing which, it will be canceled.
Infants and children are allowed onboard, but infants must sit on the caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.
Some tours may not be wheelchair accessible.
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. People with heart problems or other serious medical conditions must avoid the tours.
It is advised to wear layers and warm weather gear with a waterproof outer shell as you will land in the snow.
A valid passport is required.
No pets are allowed onboard except service animals.
Check-in at least 30 minutes early.
Flight times are approximate based on winds, weights, and conditions.
Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.
Exclusions of the air tour
The tours do not include food and drinks unless stated otherwise.
Souvenir photos, comfort surcharge, and personal expenses are excluded from your ticket.
Your ticket price is also not inclusive of gratuities.
FAQs about the glacier heli-hike tours in Alaska
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) that tourists often have about Alaska Glacier Heli-Hike Tours:
A Glacier Heli-Hike Tour is an adventurous excursion that combines a helicopter ride with a guided hike on a glacier. Participants are flown to a glacier landing site and then led by experienced guides on a hike across the glacier’s unique terrain.
While glacier heli-hike tours are accessible to many people, they do require a moderate level of physical fitness. Participants should be able to walk on uneven and icy terrain. It’s advisable to check with the tour operator about any specific fitness requirements.
Dressing in layers is essential, as temperatures on glaciers can be colder than expected. The tour operator usually provides hiking gear, like ice crampons for traction on the ice, waterproof and sturdy hiking boots, harnesses, helmets, etc. It’s also wise to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
While prior hiking experience can be beneficial, many heli-hike tours are designed to accommodate participants of varying fitness levels. Guides provide instructions on glacier hiking techniques and ensure your safety throughout the journey.
The best time for these tours is typically from May to September when the weather is milder (and relatively more stable) and the glaciers are more accessible. However, weather conditions can still vary, so it’s important to be prepared for changing conditions.
Many tour operators have age and fitness requirements, so it’s best to inquire in advance. Some tours are family-friendly and offer options suitable for children and seniors.
Tour operators prioritize safety and provide participants with appropriate gear and guidance. Guides are trained to navigate the glacier’s terrain and are well-versed in emergency procedures.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% percent cancellation fee is applicable.
No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.
Helicopter tours require good weather.
If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.
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