Helicopter
Season: May–Sep
Helicopter glacier landing
- Fly over the Juneau Icefield and its glaciers
- Step out and walk on the ice with a guide
The two most popular ways to get onto the ice above Juneau both start with a helicopter flight over the Juneau Icefield. After that, they are very different experiences. Here is how to choose.
Helicopter glacier landing
You fly over the icefield and land on a glacier, then step out and walk on the ice with a guide. Time on the glacier is short, usually around 20 to 30 minutes, but the flight itself is half the experience: crevasse fields, ice falls and peaks that you cannot see from the ground.
- Total time: about two hours, including transfers and safety briefing
- Best for: first-time visitors, cruise passengers with limited time, and anyone who wants the views
- Good to know: most operators provide glacier boots to wear over your shoes
Glacier dog sledding
The helicopter takes you to a summer dog camp on the ice, where mushers and their teams live through the season. You meet the dogs, learn how a sled team works and ride behind a team across the snow. You spend much longer on the ice than on a landing tour, often around an hour at the camp.
- Total time: about two to three hours
- Best for: dog lovers, families with older children, and a once-in-a-lifetime treat
- Good to know: it usually costs considerably more than a helicopter landing
Side by side
| Feature | Helicopter landing | Dog sledding |
|---|---|---|
| Time on the ice | Short, around 20–30 minutes | Longer, often around an hour |
| Total time | About 2 hours | About 2–3 hours |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Main highlight | The flight and walking on the glacier | The dogs and the sled ride |
| Season | Roughly May to September | Roughly May to September |
What both tours have in common
- Weather. Flights only go when visibility is good. If a flight is cancelled, operators usually offer another time or a refund.
- Weight limits. Helicopters are balanced by weight, so you may be asked for your weight when booking, and heavier passengers may pay a surcharge.
- Age limits. Many tours have a minimum age. Check the booking page if you are travelling with young children.
- Warm clothing. It is colder on the icefield than in town. Bring a warm layer, a hat, gloves and sunglasses. See what to wear.
A third option: a glacier trek
If you want real time on the ice, a helicopter and glacier trek combines the flight with several hours of guided hiking on the glacier, with crampons and a harness. It is the most active choice and needs a reasonable level of fitness.
Our advice
If you have one shot at the icefield and want the views, book the helicopter landing. If seeing a working sled-dog camp is on your list, dog sledding is worth the extra cost. Either way, book early: summer flights have few seats and sell out on busy cruise days. Compare every option on our tours page.
