Kind Reader, have you ever wanted to experience the beauty of the Juneau Glacier from a unique and thrilling perspective? Look no further than a Juneau Glacier Helicopter tour! As you soar over the icy terrain, you’ll witness majestic glaciers, sparkling blue waters, and towering mountains. This unforgettable adventure is perfect for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their Alaskan vacation.
About Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tours
The Mendenhall Glacier, located just outside the city of Juneau, Alaska, is one of the most visited glaciers in the region. With its sheer size and stunning beauty, it is no wonder why many visitors opt to take a helicopter tour to get an aerial view of the glacier. These tours are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the raw beauty of Alaska and its glaciers.
The Experience of a Lifetime
Juneau glacier helicopter tours offer an unforgettable experience of flying above the breathtaking Alaskan landscape. Many tour operators offer a variety of packages, some including a guided hike of the glacier itself. From the helicopter, visitors can see stunning ice formations and deep crevasses, blue-tinged glaciers, and view wildlife in their natural habitat. While flying over the glacier may seem like a thrilling experience, the guided hikes are just as awe-inspiring.
What to Expect
The tours usually last about an hour, with approximately 30-45 minutes spent on the glacier itself and the rest for transportation to and from the helicopter base. Visitors should come prepared since the temperature on the glacier can be quite unpredictable, even in the summertime. Tour operators provide hiking boots and crampons to ensure comfort and safety during the guided hike.
Choosing the Right Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour
Choosing the perfect Juneau glacier helicopter tour can be a daunting task since there are several operators to choose from. Several factors need to be considered before making a final decision. Here are just a few:
Rates and Services
Different tour operators offer various packages at different rates. It is essential to research which tour package best suits the visitor’s preferences and budget. Several tour operators include whale watching or a floatplane tour as a part of their package.
Experience and Safety
Safety is paramount when it comes to Juneau glacier helicopter tours. Before choosing an operator, it is crucial to research their safety records and experience. Make sure the operator has certified pilots with years of experience to ensure safety during the tour. Additionally, check for the duration of the tour, the support vehicles provided, and the helicopter’s condition.
Passenger Capacity
Visitors should consider the total number of individuals on a tour and the helicopter’s passenger capacity. Small helicopters can seat four-six passengers, while larger ones can accommodate 12.
The Beauty of Juneau Glacier Helicopter
Juneau, Alaska is renowned for extraordinary wilderness scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities. There is no better way to experience the breathtaking views of this natural wonderland than by helicopter. The best way to get a glimpse of the Juneau ice track is through a Juneau glacier helicopter tour.
Benefits of Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour
Helicopter tour of Juneau glacier is the finest and most efficient approach. It enables you to experience remote wildlife, untouched forests, charming scenery, and the chilly glacier expanse. It is a wonderful experience of flying over an icefield, savoring a view of snow-capped mountain peaks.
The thrilling adventure begins with you boarding a helicopter that flies you up to the Juneau ice track. You will soar over glaciers, across deep valleys, and capture the awe-inspiring views of the Juneau region.
Flora and Fauna of Juneau Glacier
The Juneau glacier is home to various kinds of trees, animals, and birds. The lush evergreen forest near the glacier provides a lush wildlife habitat, such as black bears, elk, and mountain goats. In addition, the glacier adheres to the Pacific Ocean, providing a comfortable environment for killer whales, harbor seals, porpoises, and humpback whales.
Furthermore, the Juneau glacier is located in one of the earth’s most exclusive regions when it comes to flora and fauna. Spring comes early, with the trees blooming in a riot of color amidst the wildflowers. Summer produces a dense plant canopy, and autumn colors are spectacular. Meanwhile, winter brings snow which gently covers the earth, creating a serene and magical landscape.
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Experience the Beauty of Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour
If you want to experience the stunning beauty of the Juneau Glacier, a helicopter tour might be an excellent option. The exhilarating ride to the magnificent glacier gives you a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where you can marvel at the stunning aerial views of the surrounding Tongass National Park. During the helicopter ride, take the time to look out to see if you can spot wildlife such as whales, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat.
What to Expect on a Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour?
Juneau Glacier Helicopter tour begins with the helicopter ride that flies over the Tongass National Forest, which is the largest coastal temperate rainforest in the world. You will witness the aerial view of the icy fjords, snow-capped mountains, and the stunning glaciers. The highly skilled pilots provide you with fascinating commentary and an in-depth history of the area. Once you arrive at the glacier, take the time to explore the icy wonderland. You will get to see crevasses, moulins, and seracs that exist only at a glacier.
The Best Time for Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour
Although the Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour is available throughout the year, the best time to visit would be in the summer and winter months. If you want a more picturesque view of the glacier with blooming flowers and lush greenery, the summer months are ideal. On the other hand, if you want to witness the frozen beauty of the glacier, the best time to visit is in the winter months.
What to Expect in a Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour?
If you’re planning to go on a Juneau Glacier Helicopter tour, there are several things you can expect to experience. Here are some of the most notable ones.
1. Observing the Glacier Landscape
One of the highlights of a helicopter tour is getting a bird’s eye view of the glacier landscape. From above, you can see sweeping views of ice formations, crevasses, and deep blue pools of melted ice. “The aerial views are absolutely stunning,” says travel blogger Amy, “A helicopter tour offers a unique perspective that you can’t get from the ground.”
2. Experiencing a Glacier Landing
One of the most exciting parts of a glacier helicopter tour is experiencing a landing. Helicopters can land on the glacier for 10-15 minutes, allowing you to step out and walk around on the ice. “Getting to stand on the glacier was the best part of our tour,” says travel blogger Andrea. “It’s an otherworldly experience.”
Best Time to Book a Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour
If you’re planning to book a Juneau glacier helicopter tour, it’s essential to know the best time to experience this awe-inspiring adventure. The best time to visit Juneau is from May to September when the weather is warm and the days are long. During this period, you have the opportunity to witness breathtaking aerial views of the glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and crystalline waters of the Inside Passage. The summer months also bring a rush of tourists to the area, so it’s advisable to book your tour in advance to avoid disappointment.
Weather Conditions
Juneau experiences moderate to heavy rainfall from October to April, and the temperature often drops below freezing. Thus, it’s not an ideal time to embark on a Juneau glacier helicopter tour unless you’re comfortable with the cold weather conditions. The helicopter tour operators generally don’t operate during the winter months, so bear this in mind while planning your trip.
Daylight and Visibility
Juneau enjoys extended daylight hours during the summer months, with 17-18 hours of daylight in June and July. You’ll have ample time to enjoy the scenery, capture stunning pictures, and witness Alaska’s natural beauty from a unique perspective. Moreover, the clear skies of summer offer excellent visibility, making it easier to spot wildlife such as bears, whales, and mountain goats.
Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tours
If you’re looking to experience a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent Juneau Icefield and its glaciers, there’s no better way than a helicopter tour. Some of the top tour operators in Juneau offer helicopter tours to glaciers like the Mendenhall, Taku, and Herbert. These tours are a unique opportunity to access hard-to-reach areas of the icefield and explore crevasses, ice caves, and other stunning features from above.
1. Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter Tour
If you want to see Mendenhall Glacier from above, there are several tour operators that offer helicopter tours to this famous glacier. One of the top tour providers in the area is TEMSCO Helicopters, which offers a 45- to 60-minute tour over the icefield with views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains. You’ll also have the opportunity to land on the glacier for a short walkabout.
2. Taku Glacier Helicopter Tour
The Taku Glacier is one of Alaska’s most popular and accessible glaciers, and there are several tour companies that offer helicopter tours to the glacier. On the tour, you’ll fly over the Juneau Icefield and the Tongass National Forest and land on Taku Glacier for a guided walkabout with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. One of the top tour providers is Alaska Shore Excursions, which offers a 30- to 40-minute tour and a guarantee to see five active glaciers.
What to Wear on a Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour?
Knowing what to wear on a Juneau glacier helicopter tour is vital for an enjoyable experience. Since the temperature on glaciers are usually colder than the temperature on ground level, dressing warmly is essential. Dressing in layers is the most recommended way to ensure warmth. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, followed by an insulating middle layer, and then a waterproof and windproof outer layer. The base layer should be a fabric that wicks moisture, such as merino wool or synthetic fabrics like polyester. For the middle layer, clothes made of fleece or puffy layers are recommended. Lastly, the outer layer should be made of a waterproof and windproof material like Gore-Tex.
What to Bring?
Aside from dressing warmly, there are other things to bring on a Juneau glacier helicopter tour. Gloves, hats, and scarfs should not be forgotten since most of the body’s heat is lost through the head and hands. Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sun reflecting off the snow. Camera and extra batteries should also be brought to capture the breathtaking views.
Juneau Glacier Helicopter FAQ
Answers to common questions and concerns about the Juneau Glacier Helicopter tour
1. What is the Juneau Glacier Helicopter tour?
The Juneau Glacier Helicopter tour is an exciting adventure that offers a one-of-a-kind experience of flying in a helicopter over the Juneau Icefield and landing on a glacier.
2. Is the helicopter tour safe?
Yes, the helicopter tour is extremely safe. All helicopters used are maintained to the highest standards and flown by experienced pilots with extensive training.
3. How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around 2-3 hours, including a 30-40 minute helicopter flight and 1-2 hours on the glacier.
4. What should I wear for the tour?
We recommend dressing in warm layers with waterproof outerwear and sturdy shoes or boots. Gloves and sunglasses are also recommended.
5. What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent and may be cancelled or rescheduled if conditions are not suitable for flying. We will contact you in advance to discuss options.
6. Can I bring a camera or other personal items?
Yes, you are welcome to bring a camera or other personal items on the tour. We suggest bringing a small backpack or bag for storage during the flight.
7. Is there a weight limit for the tour?
Yes, there is a weight limit for the helicopter. Please contact us in advance if you have any concerns or questions about weight limits.
8. Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for all ages, but children under a certain weight may be required to sit on an adult’s lap during the flight. Please contact us in advance with any concerns or questions.
9. Will I feel motion sickness in the helicopter?
Motion sickness is rare in helicopters, but if you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking medication or consulting with a doctor before the flight.
10. Is there a restroom on the helicopter or glacier?
No, there is no restroom on the helicopter or glacier. Please use the restroom facilities before departing on the tour.
11. Is food or water provided on the tour?
No, food or water is not provided on the tour. We recommend bringing snacks and water for the outing.
12. What if I have a fear of heights?
We understand that a fear of heights is a common concern, but many guests who have a fear of heights have been able to successfully enjoy the tour. Our experienced pilots will do everything possible to ensure your comfort and safety during the flight.
13. What if I need to cancel or reschedule my tour?
Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule your tour. We have a flexible rebooking policy and will do our best to accommodate your needs.
14. How do I make a reservation for the tour?
You can make a reservation online or by calling our customer service team. We recommend booking in advance to ensure availability.
15. What if I still have questions or concerns?
Please do not hesitate to contact our customer service team with any questions or concerns you may have about the tour. We are happy to assist you in any way we can.
For a thrilling once-in-a-lifetime adventure, experience the stunning glaciers of Juneau from above with a Juneau glacier helicopter tour.
A Fond Farewell from Juneau Glacier Helicopter
As our journey comes to an end, we would like to thank you, Kind Reader, for taking the time to join us on this scenic adventure. We hope that we were able to provide you with an unforgettable experience exploring the stunning Alaskan wilderness from the sky. The Juneau Glacier Helicopter and its team look forward to sharing more of Alaska’s wonders in the future and we invite you to join us again. Until then, happy travels!
