Seward: Bear Glacier Helicopter Tour with Beach Landing

If you’re dreaming of soaring over icy landscapes and landing on a remote Alaskan beach, this Bear Glacier helicopter tour from Seward promises an adventure packed with breathtaking scenery. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the glowing reviews, detailed itineraries, and the inclusive nature of this experience make it clear that it offers something special for anyone eager to see Alaska from a new perspective.

What really appeals are the personalized small-group setting—limited to just four participants—and the chance to get up close to a massive glacier and its icy surroundings. We also love that the tour includes a beach landing, offering a rare opportunity to explore on foot and listen to the glacier calving (that’s the crackling icebreaking off into the water). One consideration? The tour does require accurate weight reporting for safety reasons, which means you’ll want to be prepared for a quick check-in process.

This tour is ideal for adventurers who value intimate, authentic experiences and aren’t worried about paying a premium for truly unique views. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and the thrill of seeing a glacier calve in action.

Key Points

• Small group experience for more personal attention and fewer crowds.
• Close-up views of Bear Glacier and its crevasses provide a dramatic perspective.
• Beach landing allows exploration of a remote Alaskan shoreline.
• Flight over Resurrection Bay offers potential wildlife sightings.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics.
• Limited to 4 participants, enhancing safety and intimacy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Seward Airport and Resurrection Bay

The adventure begins with a pickup from your Seward hotel—assuming you’re staying at the right spot, like the Edgewater Hotel, as pickup is scheduled at 7:15 am. From there, the helicopter takes you over Resurrection Bay, where the stunning mountain backdrop and the lively waters set the tone for what’s to come. This initial flight isn’t just a warm-up; it’s an eye-opening introduction to the rugged beauty of Alaska’s coast.

The Scenic Flight Over Resurrection Bay

During the 15-minute flight over Resurrection Bay, you’re likely to see more than just icy landscapes. Our sources indicate that moose, Dall sheep, black bears, and marine wildlife are common sights. Keep your camera ready because spotting wildlife feeding in the bay adds an element of unpredictability and excitement. The flight is a gentle introduction, giving your eyes a chance to adjust and your camera a chance to click.

Into Kenai Fjords National Park

Next, the helicopter flies into Kenai Fjords National Park, home to Bear Glacier, Alaska’s largest glacier accessible by air. The landscape here is jaw-dropping: massive ice formations, deep crevasses, and icebergs bobbing in the lagoon. The pilot/guide provides commentary about the glacier’s features—massive crevasses indicate the slow but unstoppable movement of this icy giant.

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The Beach Landing: Exploring a Remote Shoreline

The highlight for many is the 35-minute landing on the shore of a lagoon. Once on the ground, you’re free to explore the beach and icebergs, listening to the glacier calving in the distance. This is a rare chance to stand on a quiet, icy beach—something you can’t get from a boat tour or a standard sightseeing cruise. The experience is immersive, and many appreciate the opportunity to hear the sounds of cracking ice while marveling at the scenery.

Up Close with the Glacier

Getting close to the glacier’s massive crevasses offers a perspective that’s both humbling and exhilarating. The icebergs floating nearby provide perfect photo opportunities and an authentic feel of the raw, untamed wilderness. The guide is knowledgeable and friendly, ready to answer questions or share insights about glacier dynamics—a chance for both awe and education.

The Return Flight and Wildlife Watching

On the way back, the helicopter stays lower over Resurrection Bay, allowing passengers to enjoy views of feeding marine life and the dramatic coastline. From this vantage point, you might see more wildlife, or simply take in the rugged beauty of the Alaskan coast from a different perspective.

Experience Logistics and Practicalities

The tour is designed for intimate groups—just four people—ensuring you receive personalized attention and plenty of space to enjoy the scenery. The entire experience lasts about an hour, with a generous 35-minute ground exploration at the glacier. The cost of $479 per person includes pickup and drop-off from select Seward hotels, which simplifies your planning.

Price and Value

While $479 might seem steep, consider what’s included: a private helicopter flight, a beach landing, a close encounter with a glacier, and the chance to see wildlife from above. For travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the value comes from the high-quality, personal encounter with Alaska’s stunning landscapes, guided by friendly and knowledgeable pilots.

Authentic Reviews: What Others Are Saying

One reviewer praised the “amazing views and the guide/pilot, Trevor, [who was] professional, knowledgeable, and friendly.” This highlights the importance of choosing a reputable provider with experienced staff. The small group size was also a big plus, making the experience feel more like a private adventure than a typical tour.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Compared to larger, more commercial options, this tour’s personalized approach and emphasis on real exploration make it stand apart. The opportunity to stand on a remote shore, listen to calving ice, and observe wildlife feeding are experiences that truly resonate for many travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals to adventurous spirits and those with an appreciation for authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments. It’s perfect for nature lovers, wildlife watchers, and photography enthusiasts eager for the ultimate Alaskan backdrop, all delivered with a dash of thrill from flying in a helicopter. If you’re comfortable with the idea of a quick weight check and a small-group setting, you’ll find this tour well worth the cost.

The Sum Up

This helicopter tour from Seward offers an intimate, awe-inspiring glimpse of Alaska’s glaciers and rugged shoreline. The combination of aerial views, a beach landing, and a knowledgeable guide creates a well-rounded adventure that’s both educational and exhilarating. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a personalized, memorable experience that combines stunning scenery with the chance to explore a remote part of the Alaskan coast.

While the price may be on the higher side, the value of close-up glacier views, wildlife spotting, and a quiet beach experience makes it worthwhile for those eager to indulge in something truly unique. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply want to see Alaska’s icy heart from a new angle, this tour will deliver.

In short, if your goal is to see Alaska from above and on the ground in a small, friendly group, this helicopter tour to Bear Glacier is well worth considering. It’s a rare chance to get beyond the typical tourist spots and experience the raw beauty of one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from select Seward hotels are included. The pickup at the Edgewater Hotel is scheduled for 7:15 am, so arrive a few minutes early.

How long is the entire tour?
The total experience lasts about an hour, including the flight and the time spent on the ground at the glacier.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera. The weather can be unpredictable, so layering is advisable.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, guests are required to provide accurate weights for safety and seating arrangements. Guests weighing 250 lbs or more must pay a $150 comfort surcharge, and those over 300 lbs need to contact the provider for larger helicopter options.

What is the main attraction of this tour?
The highlights are the beach landing at the lagoon, the close-up views of Bear Glacier, and the chance to see wildlife feeding in Resurrection Bay from the air.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for small groups and may require physical mobility for exploring the beach, so check with the provider if you’re traveling with young children.

What is the cost, and does it include everything?
The price is $479 per person, which covers the helicopter flight, beach landing, and transportation to and from your hotel. Food and drinks are not included.

This helicopter adventure in Seward offers a rare blend of excitement, natural beauty, and personal connection—perfect for travelers looking to add a truly memorable chapter to their Alaska story.

You can check availability for your dates here: