Introduction
Imagine soaring above towering glaciers, spotting wildlife along the skyline, then slipping onto a snow-blanketed icefield to mush a team of energetic sled dogs. That’s exactly what this Anchorage helicopter and glacier dogsled tour promises — and, judging by the glowing reviews, it mostly delivers.
What we love about this experience? First, the breathtaking helicopter flight over the Chugach Range and Knik Glacier offers some of the best scenery you’ll find in Alaska. Second, the authentic dogsledding adventure with real sled dogs and mushers makes you feel part of a true Alaskan tradition. And third, the friendly, knowledgeable guides add a personal touch that leaves you with stories to tell.
That said, a possible snag is the weather — since the tour takes place at high altitude and in outdoor conditions, cloud cover or storms can cause cancellations or rescheduling. But if you’re flexible, the operators typically offer options to rebook or adjust your experience.
This tour is perfect for those craving an authentic outdoor adventure, wildlife lovers, or anyone wanting a good mix of adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery. Now, let’s break down what makes this experience so compelling.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Stunning aerial views of glaciers, icebergs, and mountain ranges.
- Authentic dogsledding experience with real sled dogs and expert mushers.
- Flexible options in case of weather disruptions.
- All-in-one adventure lasting around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering great value for the price.
- Guides and staff are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
- Weather considerations can affect the schedule, so flexibility helps.
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Overview of the Experience
This tour combines two iconic Alaskan activities into one seamless adventure: an aerial flight over glaciers followed by an up-close dogsledding experience on a snowfield. It’s designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Alaska’s wilderness in a relatively short time.
Starting at the Alaska Glacier Lodge in Palmer, you’ll first hop into a helicopter for a 30-minute flight. The route sweeps across the Chugach Range, where you’ll admire colossal glaciers, shimmering icebergs, and perhaps even spot wildlife like moose, bears, or Dall sheep.
After landing on a glacier snowfield, you’ll spend about an hour with sled dogs and mushers who live and train here all summer. You can choose to mush your own team or sit back and enjoy the ride, all while surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery.
Finally, you’ll reboard the helicopter for another short flight over lower glaciers, where melt pools and crevasses are visible — an unforgettable view to round out your Alaskan adventure.
The Helicopter Flight: Soaring Over Glaciers
The highlight of many reviews is the helicopter ride. Expect a smooth, exhilarating flight that offers panoramic views of glaciers and ice formations you’d never see from the ground. Reviewers often mention the friendly pilots, who enhance the experience with their knowledge and enthusiasm.
One guest commented: “The flight over the glaciers was a highlight — the pilot was very informative, pointing out wildlife and explaining the landscape.” While some noted that the pilot didn’t talk much during the ride, most appreciated the spectacular scenery and the sense of flying close to ice formations and mountain peaks.
What makes this flight particularly valuable is its accessibility — better weather conditions than other popular spots like Girdwood or Juneau mean more consistent flying days, and the views are truly unforgettable.
Glacier Dogsledding: A True Alaskan Tradition
The real heart of this tour is the dogsledding on a glacier. Mushers and their dogs are the stars here, and reviewers consistently praise the friendly, energetic sled dogs. You’ll spend about an hour on the snow, which is perfect for most travelers, offering time enough to mush a team or simply enjoy the ride.
Many guests love the chance to meet the dogs up close, pet puppies, and hear stories from the mushers about the grueling 1,000-mile Iditarod race. One reviewer commented: “Getting to mush a team with the guidance of experienced mushers was an incredible, hands-on experience. The dogs were adorable and so eager to run.”
Some guests opt to sit on the sled and let the mushers do the driving, which still provides plenty of scenery and fun. Overboots are provided to keep your shoes dry, and warm gear can be rented if needed, making it accessible even for those not dressed for extreme cold.
The dogs are clearly loved and well cared for, with many guests touching puppies and listening to stories about life on the ice. This authentic interaction makes the experience memorable, especially for animal lovers.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPractical Details & Logistics
The tour lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours total, factoring in transfers, safety briefings, and the actual activities. It’s well-paced and suitable for most fitness levels. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the Alaska Glacier Lodge in Palmer.
Weather plays a crucial role — if conditions aren’t suitable, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, options generally include rebooking, partial refunds, or rescheduling — so flexibility is key.
The price of $653 per person reflects the combination of helicopter flight and dogsledding, plus permits and facility fees. Many reviewers feel it offers good value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, especially considering the high-quality guides and jaw-dropping scenery.
Guides and Staff: The Heart of the Experience
Reviews highlight the friendly and professional guides, who make a point to share stories and safety information. The dog handlers are especially praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge about sled dog life and racing.
Guests also mention some pilots as being a bit reserved, but overall, the emphasis on safety, expertise, and warmth shines through. The guides’ stories about the sled dogs’ training and racing careers add a personal, authentic touch.
What To Bring and Wear
To make the most of this adventure, pack warm clothing, including wool or fleece layers, a windproof outer layer, and a hat that covers your ears. Sunglasses are recommended to shield your eyes from the sun reflecting off the snow. Bring a camera for the scenic views, but remember that sturdy hiking shoes or athletic shoes are necessary — no heels or open-toed shoes.
Overboots are provided, but dressing in layers helps you adapt to changing temperatures and outdoor conditions.
Weather Considerations
Since weather can impact the operation, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are unsafe. Guests have generally appreciated the transparent communication and flexible options offered by the tour operators.
Who is This Tour For?
This experience is perfect for adventure-seekers eager for an authentic Alaskan outing. It’s also ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone interested in mushing or glacier scenery. Due to the physical nature of dogsledding, children should be comfortable in outdoor winter environments, but the experience generally suits all ages.
The Sum Up
This helicopter and dogsled tour combines spectacular glacier views with an authentic sled dog experience that brings Alaska’s wilderness to life. It’s well-organized, offers excellent value, and provides plenty of opportunities to learn about the region’s natural beauty and traditions.
At around two hours, it’s a manageable yet immersive adventure for most travelers, especially those looking to tick off a bucket list activity. The guides’ friendliness and the breathtaking scenery make it a memorable highlight of any Alaskan trip.
Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a thrill-seeker, or simply after a unique experience, this combination tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and adrenaline — all in one unforgettable package.
FAQs
Is transportation included? No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the Alaska Glacier Lodge.
How long is the tour? The tour lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, including all activities and transfers.
Can I reschedule if the weather is bad? Yes, the tour provider offers options to rebook or reschedule if weather conditions prevent operation.
What should I wear? Dress warmly with layers, including wool or fleece, windproof outer layers, a hat, sunglasses, and sturdy shoes or hiking boots.
Are overboots provided? Yes, overboots are provided to keep your shoes dry during the snow activities.
Can I pet the sled dogs? Absolutely, guests love meeting and petting the dogs, puppies, and hearing stories from the mushers.
How experienced are the guides? The guides and handlers are known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their passion for dogs and glaciers.
What wildlife might I see? While not guaranteed, guests have reported seeing moose, bears, Dall sheep, and mountain goats from the air.
Is this suitable for children? Yes, most children who can handle outdoor winter conditions enjoy the tour, but it’s best to check with the provider if your child has specific needs.
What makes this tour stand out? The combination of a scenic helicopter flight with an authentic, hands-on dogsledding experience makes this a truly unique Alaskan adventure.
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