Juneau: Norris Adventure Seaplane, Paddle & Glacier Hike

When it comes to truly enjoying Alaska’s wild landscape, few experiences can match the thrill of combining a scenic floatplane flight, glacier exploration, and packrafting—all in just five hours. This tour, offered by Above & Beyond Alaska, is designed for those who crave adventure and want a close-up encounter with some of Juneau’s most iconic sights, like Norris and Taku glaciers. As seasoned travelers ourselves, we’re excited to share what makes this experience stand out—and what might give some pause.

We particularly appreciate the personalized small-group nature of the tour. Limited to just six participants, it promises a more intimate, flexible, and engaging outing. The expert guides and pilot are frequently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making even the most challenging parts accessible and fun. A potential consideration? The tour involves hiking over uneven terrain and getting in and out of floatplanes, so it’s not suited for everyone—especially those with mobility or certain health issues.

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to combine aerial views, glacier close-ups, and water-based exploration into one memorable outing. If you’re looking for an authentic, action-packed day that embodies the spirit of Alaska’s rugged wilderness, this tour has plenty to offer.

Key Points

Small Group Experience: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Multiple Alaska Icons: Combines flightseeing, glacier hiking, and packrafting into a single seamless adventure.
Expert Guides and Pilot: Guides like Reno are highly praised for their knowledge, charisma, and enthusiasm.
Unmatched Views: Expect panoramic vistas of Norris and Taku glaciers—some of the most stunning scenery in Southeast Alaska.
Physical Participation: Requires hiking over uneven terrain, paddling, and getting in and out of floatplanes—adventure for active travelers.
Seasonal Features: Glacier features like crevasses and moulins are dynamic and may vary seasonally, adding an element of unpredictability.

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An In-Depth Look at the Norris Adventure Seaplane, Paddle & Glacier Hike

The Journey Begins: Convenient Pickup and Scenic Transport

Your day kicks off with a pickup from one of eight locations around Juneau—ranging from the airport to downtown spots—making it easy to fit into your plans. The van ride to the seaplane base takes about 30 minutes, setting a relaxed tone for the day. These transfers are smooth, and the small group size ensures a comfortable start.

The Floatplane Flight: A Bird’s-Eye View of Juneau’s Wilderness

Once aboard the six-passenger floatplane, you’ll lift off over Juneau’s water and rugged landscapes. The scenic flight is one of the highlights, offering sweeping views of the Taku Inlet, the flowing glaciers of the Juneau Icefield, and the surrounding mountain ranges. Keep your camera ready—there’s a good chance of spotting mountain goats, black bears, and moose along the way, thanks to the wildlife-rich environment.

This flight isn’t just a ride; it’s an immersion in Alaska’s grandeur. The thrill of flying over glaciers and ice-covered peaks sets the tone for the adventures ahead. The pilot, Jason, is commended for his professionalism and friendliness, making the flight both safe and enjoyable.

Landing on Norris Lake & the Hike to the Glacier

After landing on Norris Glacier-fed lake, the real exploration begins. Your guides will lead you on a walk across the terrain carved by ancient ice, taking you to a scenic cove where your packrafts are waiting. These single-person inflatable boats are perfect for exploring the icy landscape from a different perspective.

The hike to the glacier is a manageable but uneven walk. Expect to see glacier pools, crevasses, and moulins—natural ice features that change throughout the season. The guides will brief you on safety and paddling techniques before you launch into the water.

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The Packrafting Experience: Paddling Toward the Ice

The packrafts are surprisingly stable for such an adventure, and guides like Reno are experienced in making novices comfortable on the water. Paddling past icebergs and around floating ice gives you a sense of how dynamic and fragile these glaciers are. The views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers are breathtaking, especially as the landscape is framed by towering ice formations.

Paddling toward the glacier itself is a thrill, giving you an up-close view of the icy facade. Being able to beach the packraft on the glacier is a unique feature that sets this tour apart. It allows you to step directly onto the glacier, where micro-spikes help you walk on the uneven, moonscape-like surface safely.

Exploring the Glacial Terrain

Once on the glacier, you’ll don micro-spikes for traction as you walk over the ice. Our review mentions the “moonscape” landscape—cracked ice, blue pools, and crevasses that provide endless photographic opportunities. Guides are knowledgeable about glacier features, pointing out crevasses, moulins, and melt pools, adding context to the stunning visuals.

The highlight is the panoramic view of Norris and Taku glaciers—a spectacle of massive ice formations, crevasses, and moulins, which are natural ice tunnels. The terrain is ever-changing, a reminder of the glaciers’ ebb and flow. This makes each visit slightly different and keeps the experience fresh.

The Return Paddle and Flight Home

After the glacier exploration, you’ll pack up your micro-spikes, reboard the packraft, and paddle back to Norris Lake. The return trip on the water offers another chance to admire the scenery and reflect on the day’s adventures. Once back at the landing site, the floatplane awaits to take you back over Juneau’s wilderness, completing the loop.

The return flight offers a different perspective of the landscape, with views of the icefield and glaciers from the air. Many travelers find this aerial perspective especially memorable, as it captures the vastness and beauty of Alaska’s landscape.

The End of the Day: Reflection and Transfers

Back on land, your driver will return you to your pickup point, completing a well-paced, approximately five-hour adventure. The tour is designed for active participants, so expect a full, engaging day filled with physical activity and awe-inspiring sights.

Authenticity and Value: What Travelers Appreciate

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Reno, who bring the experience to life with interesting facts and a warm attitude. The stunning views and photo opportunities are frequent highlights, with many guests mentioning how the scenery exceeded their expectations. As one reviewer noted, “Reno was an excellent tour guide… very knowledgeable, charismatic, and informative.”

The combination of flightseeing, glacier hiking, and packrafting offers a comprehensive introduction to Alaska’s glacial environment. For travelers who enjoy multi-sport adventures and want to see three iconic Alaska experiences in one go, this tour provides excellent value considering the immersive nature and expert guidance.

Pricing is not explicitly provided, but when you factor in the small-group intimacy, expert guides, all gear, and transportation, it offers a good balance of cost and adventure. The inclusion of seasonal glacier features means that no two trips are exactly alike, adding to the sense of discovery.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress in outdoor clothing suitable for variable weather—layers are your friend.
• You’ll need to be comfortable hiking over uneven terrain and paddling in a packraft.
• Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with certain health issues.
• Be prepared for a physically active day—this isn’t a sightseeing bus tour.
• The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants to operate, so check availability in advance.
• Expect to climb in and out of floatplanes, which might be daunting for some.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure-packed tour is best suited for active, curious travelers eager to see Alaska from air, land, and water. If you’re comfortable with hiking, paddling, and small aircraft, you’ll find this a rare opportunity to experience the glaciers up close and personal. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a friendly, personalized experience—ideal for those who value authentic, hands-on adventures.

While it’s not tailored for young children, pregnant travelers, or those with mobility concerns, it’s perfect for adventurous spirits seeking a comprehensive, memorable Alaska experience that offers more than just a photo opportunity. The mix of scenery, activity, and expert guidance makes this a standout choice for travelers wanting to combine thrill and education in the Alaskan wilderness.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
No, it’s designed for active travelers, as it involves hiking over uneven terrain, paddling, and getting in and out of floatplanes. It’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with certain health or mobility issues.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about five hours, including pickups, safety briefings, sightseeing, the adventure itself, and return transfers.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable outdoor clothes suitable for variable weather conditions. Layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear are recommended, especially for hiking and glacier walking.

Do I need previous paddling experience?
No, guides will teach you paddling techniques, and the packrafts are beginner-friendly. Guides are also there to support you throughout.

Can I see wildlife during the flight?
Yes, mountain goats, black bears, and moose are commonly spotted along the flight route, thanks to the wildlife-rich environment of the Taku Inlet.

What happens if the glacier features change?
Glacier features like crevasses and moulins vary seasonally, which adds an element of unpredictability and excitement to each trip.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, flightseeing and glacier activities depend on weather conditions. The tour provider will advise on cancellations or rescheduling if needed.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, exhilarating glimpse into Alaska’s icy heart. It’s perfect for those who want to combine scenery, activity, and a sense of discovery into one unforgettable day. Expect stunning vistas, active exploration, and a chance to connect with Alaska’s wildness—an experience that stays with you long after the glaciers have melted from your photos.

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