Best Helicopter & Glacier Dogsled Tours in Alaska - Complete Guide

Dogsledding - The Classic Alaska Adventure

Helicopter and Glacier Dogsledding is one of the most spectacular and exciting activities in Alaska. Its main appeal lies in the unique combination of two incredible experiences: a scenic helicopter flight followed by a dogsled ride on the snow, even during the summer months! This attraction is available in several locations throughout the state, making it easy to incorporate into your Alaska travel itinerary.

Glacier dogsledding near Palmer

Glacier Dogsledding Tour - Detailed Description

Glacier dogsledding begins at the tour operator's office, where participants undergo a preflight weight check, receive a safety briefing, and prepare for the adventure. After this, everyone heads to the helicopters and has the opportunity to meet their pilot.

The helicopter flights are spectacular, though typically short. For flights originating from Palmer and Seward, the flight time is approximately 15 minutes one way, while those departing from Girdwood take only about 5 minutes. The longest flights are from Juneau, averaging 30 minutes each way.

Participants can always expect a scenic flight, as the dogsledding takes place on a glacier. During the flight, you can admire and photograph mountain ranges, impressive glaciers, and glacial lakes. Depending on the location and some luck, you might even spot wildlife. However, due to the high altitudes and movement, sightings are more of a nice bonus than a guarantee.

Views from a glacier dogsled tour

As the participants approach the landing, they will see a stunning camp situated on a glacier. The camp typically includes several dog kennels and a few small shelters for the mushers, who often spend several days in this remote location. On days when tourists visit, the dogs eagerly await the arrival of the helicopters.

Once the helicopter lands, the mushers greet the participants and assign them to their sled dog teams. The guides provide information about the dogs, the glacier, and the basics of dog sledding.

During the ride, participants have the opportunity to switch positions, allowing them to experience both being a passenger and driving the dogsled themselves (with a musher's guidance, of course!). The dogsledding adventure usually lasts around one hour and includes several stops along the way.

After the ride, participants often have some extra time to interact with the dogs and even meet the puppies! Just be careful—those little puppy teeth can be quite sharp!

When you land on the glacier you will see a large camp set up

Is Glacier Dogsledding Worth It?

The Glacier Dogsledding Tour is one of the most exciting attractions in Alaska during the summer. In less than two hours, you can experience two unique activities: a scenic flight and a dogsled ride on the snow. The views during the flight are always breathtaking, and meeting the dogs is truly unforgettable. This attraction is enjoyable for people of all ages and is an excellent option for families with children.

The main downsides are the high price and the activity's dependence on weather conditions, which can be quite unpredictable in Alaska.

Glacier dogsled tours give you a chance to meet dogsled puppies!

Best Helicopter & Glacier Dogsledding Tours in Alaska

There are a few companies that offer Glacier Dogsledding Tours in Alaska:

• Alaska Helicopter Tours starting from Palmer,

• Alpine Air Alaska starting from Girdwood,

• Seward Helicopters starting from Seward,

• Temsco Helicopter and Coastal Helicopter starting from Juneau.

The primary company we partner with for helicopter tours is Alaska Helicopter Tours, which we highly recommend as a trusted flight operator. We like to integrate this activity into our 14-day Alaska itinerary, allowing our guests to take advantage of their stay at Alaska Glacier Lodge. This enables them to embark on a morning tour directly from their cabins. Additionally, we tend to have the best luck with the weather for tours starting from Palmer, as Girdwood and Seward often experience more rain. Please note that in case of bad weather, all companies will make an effort to reschedule your tour or provide a refund.

All of our partner companies have high ratings and are known for their excellent service standards. Be sure to choose the company that best fits your tour needs.

The views from the glacier are beautiful!

How Much Does Glacier Dogsledding Cost?

The cost of a helicopter and glacier dog sledding tour is generally quite high and tends to be similar across different providers. Tour operators list the base price on their websites, but this does not include additional fees and taxes. Please keep in mind that it is customary to leave a tip for the mushers and/or the pilot as well. Tours typically start from around $650 per person.

Helicopters safely transport you up to the glacier

What Time of Day Is Best for Helicopter & Glacier Dogsledding?

We recommend scheduling this activity for early morning whenever possible. This gives you the flexibility to reschedule the tour for later in the day if the weather is not cooperating. Many people believe that the weather is generally calmer in the early morning for flying, but this is not a strict rule. Ultimately, we suggest choosing a time that best fits your itinerary.

What Should You Wear for a Glacier Dogsled Tour?

As always, in Alaska, opt for a few layers. Bring a rain jacket, a light down jacket, a hat that covers your ears, thin gloves, and sunglasses. Opt for long pants and comfortable shoes—avoid sandals or heels. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle. Most companies provide waterproof over-boots that you can slip on over your shoes, which are very useful, and we recommend using them.

Keep in mind that extra bags or backpacks are not allowed on the helicopter. All additional items must fit into your pockets. Be sure to keep your camera in your pocket or hang it around your neck during the flight.

Make sure to dress appropriately for your time on the glacier

What Happens When the Weather Is Bad?

Your safety on the flight is the most important thing. If the weather conditions are not suitable for a safe flight, the tour will be canceled, and you will receive a full refund of 100%. Additionally, if your Alaska itinerary allows, the company may offer you the option to reschedule. If the weather is safe but the flight cannot be as long as originally planned, they will provide you with the best available solution to ensure your reimbursement.

Is Glacier Dogsledding Safe?

All of the companies are well-known for providing high-quality services. The pilots are experienced and responsible. However, it is important to remember that this activity carries a higher level of risk, which should be taken into consideration before making a booking. Prior to each flight, all passengers are required to sign a liability waiver acknowledging the risks associated with this type of activity.

Interested in going on a Helicopter & Glacier Dog Sledding Tour? Visit our Design Your Trip page.

Dogsledding in Seward