Taku Glacier Helicopter and Airboat Adventure

Travelers seeking a true taste of Alaska’s rugged grandeur will find the Taku Glacier Helicopter and Airboat Adventure a compelling choice. This tour promises a mix of soaring over glaciers, cruising alongside icy walls, and landing amidst a remote wilderness—an experience designed to leave lasting impressions. With a focus on stunning views, authentic wilderness encounters, and a blend of excitement and tranquility, it’s an activity that appeals to those eager to see Alaska’s iconic landscape from multiple vantage points.

What we love about this experience is how it combines adventure with breathtaking scenery. The helicopter flight offers expansive views of the Juneau Icefield and Tongass National Forest, while the airboat cruise gets you remarkably close to the ancient Taku Glacier. The highlight, of course, is the glacier landing, allowing you to step onto the ice itself—something truly special. A possible downside is that, at around 3 hours and 15 minutes, the tour is on the longer side, so it’s best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule and good mobility. This adventure is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone craving an unforgettable Alaskan experience beyond the typical cruise shore excursions.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of glaciers, national forests, and icefields from the helicopter.
• Close-up encounters with Taku Glacier via airboat, bringing you face-to-face with ancient ice.
• Unique glacier landing on the icefield allows for immersive exploration and photography.
• All necessary gear provided, including over boots and rain pants, making it accessible regardless of weather.
• Limited group size ensures a more personal, less crowded experience.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness and an appreciation for remote wilderness.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Downtown Juneau and Transportation

The adventure begins with a van transfer from downtown Juneau to the Helicport on Douglas Island. This quick 15-minute ride is a convenient way to start the day, offering a brief glimpse of the local scenery. No admission fee is charged here, but it sets the stage for the adventure ahead. Organizing your logistics with this transfer ensures a smooth transition from city to wilderness.

Safety Briefing and Gear at NorthStar Helicopters

Once at NorthStar Helicopters, you’ll be equipped with over boots and rain pants. Given the variable Alaskan weather and cold temperatures on the glacier, these are invaluable for comfort and safety. The safety briefing, about 40 minutes long, is a necessary step to ensure everyone understands the procedures—think of it as your mental prep for the big adventure.

Flying Over Tongass National Forest and Taku Inlet

The flight over the Tongass National Forest and Taku Inlet is a highlight in itself. We loved the way this part of the journey provides a bird’s-eye view of wilderness, with dense forests stretching to the horizon and the shimmering inlets below. It’s an ideal moment for photography and quiet reflection, as you see the scale and diversity of Alaska’s natural landscape. The approximately 15-minute flight makes for a perfect aerial introduction, whetting your appetite for what’s to come.

Cruising the Taku Glacier by Airboat

Next, a one-hour airboat ride takes you to the face of the Taku Glacier. This part of the tour is particularly compelling. The boat skims close to the towering, icy wall of the glacier, offering a remarkably intimate view of the ancient ice. Reviewers mention the stunning scenery, describing the experience as “breathtaking” and “a real highlight.” The boat ride also provides a gentle, engaging way to experience the terrain, especially for those who prefer to stay dry and comfortable.

Glacier Landing: Stepping onto the Icefield

The pièce de résistance is the helicopter landing directly on the Taku Glacier. As you step out onto the ice, the silence and vastness are overpowering. This is the moment to take amazing photos, stand amidst glaciers that have existed for centuries, and really appreciate the scale of this wilderness. Your pilot will guide you, making sure you get a good look at the sweeping ice formations and crevasses. The 10-minute walk with your pilot is an intimate, informative experience that adds depth to the visual spectacle.

Exploring the Juneau Icefield

Following the landing, the helicopter takes you over the Juneau Icefield, providing panoramic views of glaciers and rugged peaks. The 15-minute flight offers multiple perspectives—downward, lateral, and overhead—that you’ll want to capture with your camera. This part of the tour emphasizes the immensity of Alaska’s ice-covered terrain, and many reviews highlight how mesmerizing these aerial views are.

Return and Transfer

After the adventure, you’ll be transported back to Douglas Island and from there, via the same transfer, returned to downtown Juneau. The 15-minute ride back is a good time to unwind and reflect on the day’s sights. It’s worth noting that this tour often gets booked 210 days in advance, underscoring its popularity.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Since the tour has no reviews yet, we rely on its detailed itinerary and what travelers typically value in such experiences. The emphasis on stunning views and close encounters with glaciers is consistent with what enthusiasts seek. The inclusion of gear, like over boots and rain pants, reassures us that even in less-than-perfect weather, the experience remains enjoyable. The limited group size (maximum of 5 travelers) promises a more personalized adventure, which many travelers appreciate.

The price of $688 per person might seem steep, but considering the combination of flights, boat cruise, glacier landing, and expert guiding, the value becomes clearer—especially for those wanting an all-in-one Alaska experience. The full cancellation policy offers peace of mind, and the possibility of rescheduling or refunds in case of poor weather adds a practical safety net.

The Value of This Adventure

This tour is not a casual, quick glance at the scenery—it’s a full-fledged, multi-part adventure designed to give you a comprehensive view of Alaska’s icy wilderness. While it’s priced on the higher side, the incredible scenery, unique activities, and personal touch make it worthwhile for travelers who are passionate about nature and photography.

Given the remote landing on the glacier, you’ll find that this tour offers something many other experiences can’t—standing amidst a glacier, surrounded by silence and the vastness of ice. For those who want to see Alaska from above and below, this trip offers an unmatched combination of aerial and terrestrial perspectives.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-minded travelers who want to see Alaska’s glaciers up close and from above. It’s ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and those eager to step into a landscape that seems untouched by time. Because of its moderate physical requirements—mainly the ability to handle some walking on ice and the need to dress warmly—it suits most travelers with a decent level of fitness.

It’s not designed for those seeking a quick, surface-level tour; instead, it rewards those willing to dedicate a few hours to truly immersing themselves in Alaska’s wild beauty. If you appreciate authentic wilderness experiences and are comfortable with a bit of adventure, you’ll find this tour well worth the investment.

The Sum Up

The Taku Glacier Helicopter and Airboat Adventure offers an exceptional combination of aerial, terrestrial, and aquatic views that showcase Alaska’s stunning glaciers and wilderness. While it requires a bit of logistical planning and a willingness to brave the cold, the payoff is an experience that is both memorable and deeply immersive. Travelers who value authentic encounters with nature, coupled with the thrill of flight and boat rides, will find this tour a highlight of their Alaskan journey.

The small group size ensures a personal experience, and the professionally guided nature of the trip guarantees safety and insights into this remarkable landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor longing for a genuine taste of Alaska’s wild heart, this tour offers a rare chance to witness some of the most awe-inspiring scenery the region has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
Yes, there is a van transfer from downtown Juneau to the Helicport on Douglas Island. It’s a quick 15-minute ride included in the tour.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress in sturdy shoes, long socks, warm layers, and sunglasses. The weather can be 10-15°F colder on the glacier than downtown, so layers and warm clothing are essential.

Are the gear and clothing provided?
Yes, over boots and rain pants are supplied during the activity, helping you stay dry and warm despite the chilly environment.

How long is the entire tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, including transfers, safety briefings, flights, boat ride, and glacier landing.

Is there a weight limit for participants?
Yes, the total weight per passenger is limited to 500 lbs. There is a surcharge of $150 for guests 250 lbs or over, payable at the helicopter base.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour blends Alaska’s wild landscapes with the thrill of aerial and boat adventures, making it an excellent choice for those eager to see the state’s dramatic glaciers and pristine wilderness up close. It’s a bucket-list experience that balances excitement and authenticity—perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their Alaskan visit.