What to Expect on This Helicopter Experience
Hey there, I’m Justin, and after years of coordinating shore excursions in Hawaii, I can tell you that certain experiences simply take your breath away. The Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk is absolutely one of them. This isn’t just another flightseeing tour—it’s a full-blown adventure that combines aerial thrills with boots-on-ice exploration of one of Alaska’s most spectacular glaciers.
Safety & Operator Credentials: Coastal Helicopters
With over four decades of safe operations in Southeast Alaska, Coastal Helicopters combines experienced pilots, meticulously maintained aircraft, and an unwavering commitment to passenger safety. Their long-standing reputation and FAA-certified operations make them a trusted choice for exploring Juneau’s glaciers and wilderness.
Coastal Helicopters operates under FAA Part 135 certification with full compliance to all federal aviation regulations and safety standards.
The company maintains an exemplary safety record through rigorous maintenance protocols and comprehensive pre-flight inspections.
Coastal Helicopters operates a fleet of well-maintained Eurocopter AS350 helicopters, known for their reliability and excellent visibility for sightseeing.
All pilots are FAA-certified commercial helicopter pilots with extensive experience flying in Alaska’s challenging terrain and weather conditions.
Coastal Helicopters is highly rated on Viator and recognized as one of Juneau’s premier helicopter tour operators with decades of trusted service.
📅 Check Availability for Your Dates
Tours sell out fast — especially on weekends and during peak season. Enter your travel dates on Viator to see what’s available before it’s gone.
Picture this: you’re soaring over the Juneau Icefield, a massive expanse of ancient ice that feeds over 30 glaciers. Then, your helicopter gently touches down on Herbert Glacier, and you step out onto terrain that’s been forming for thousands of years. For 2 hours and 30 minutes, you’ll experience Alaska in a way that most travelers only dream about. Operated by Coastal Helicopters, this tour has earned a stellar 4.7 out of 5 rating from 558 reviews—and trust me, those numbers don’t lie. If you’re arriving by cruise ship, this is hands-down one of the best Alaska helicopter tours you can book during your port call, so I’d recommend you book this Juneau, Alaska helicopter tour on Viator before your sailing date.
Everything That’s Covered in Your Tour
One thing I always appreciated about quality tour operators is when they think of everything—and Coastal Helicopters delivers on that front. Here’s what’s included in your Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk:
Is This Tour Right for You? ✅
- Round-trip helicopter flight with 25-30 minutes of flightseeing
- Guided glacier walk lasting 20-25 minutes on Herbert Glacier
- Professional pilot/guide who shares fascinating glacial insights
- Boots and raincoats provided if weather conditions require them
- Transportation to and from facilities via shuttle service
- ADA accessibility with a lift available for helicopter access
Starting at $484, you’re getting serious value when you consider the helicopter time, the glacier landing, and all the gear provided. This best Alaska helicopter tour experience gives you both aerial perspectives and intimate ground-level exploration—something many competitors don’t offer.
Sights You’ll See from the Sky
The Magnificent Juneau Icefield
As your helicopter lifts off from the airport, you’ll immediately understand why Alaska is called the Last Frontier. The Juneau Icefield stretches across approximately 1,500 square miles, making it the fifth-largest ice field in the Western Hemisphere. From your vantage point, you’ll see the brilliant white expanse interrupted by dramatic crevasses and the deep blue hues that indicate ancient, compressed ice.
Herbert Glacier Landing Zone
The highlight of this Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk is undoubtedly the landing on Herbert Glacier. This 4-mile-long glacier cascades down from the icefield, and your pilot will set you down in a safe zone where you can explore freely. The ice formations here are constantly shifting, so what you see on your visit will be unique to that moment in time. Check availability and pricing here to secure this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Throughout your flight, jagged mountain peaks surround you on all sides. The Boundary Ranges create a dramatic backdrop, and on clear days, visibility can extend for dozens of miles. Your pilot will point out key landmarks and share stories about the geology and history of this incredible region.
Helicopter Tour Tip
Bring a fully charged camera or phone—the views during this best Alaska helicopter tour are absolutely spectacular, and you’ll want to capture every moment from takeoff to landing.
Need-to-Know Info Before You Fly
Before you embark on your Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk, here are some practical details you’ll need:
Weight Considerations: Like all helicopter tours, Coastal Helicopters uses weight-based seating to ensure proper aircraft balance. Be prepared to provide accurate weight information when booking—this is standard safety protocol and nothing to worry about.
What to Wear: Even in summer, glacier temperatures can be chilly. I recommend:
- Layered clothing (it’s often 20-30 degrees cooler on the ice)
- Closed-toe shoes (boots provided if needed)
- Sunglasses (the ice reflection can be intense)
- Rain jacket (provided, but bring your own if preferred)
Accessibility: This tour is wheelchair accessible with an ADA lift available for helicopter access—a feature that makes this incredible experience available to more travelers.
Meeting Point: Look for the Coastal Helicopters representative dressed in orange under the cables of the Goldbelt Tram on the street side of the Tram building. They’ll be holding a company sign and will coordinate your shuttle to the heliport.
Booking Flexibility & Refund Policy
Alaska weather can be unpredictable, and Coastal Helicopters understands this reality. Here’s what you need to know about their policies:
- Full refund if canceled at least 3 full days before your scheduled departure
- Weather-dependent operations with full refund option if conditions prevent flying
- 0% refund if canceled within 3 days of scheduled departure
My advice? Book early to secure your spot on this popular Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk, but also purchase travel insurance if you’re concerned about last-minute changes to your cruise itinerary.
Insider Tips from Justin
Hey everyone, Justin here. After helping thousands of cruise passengers plan their perfect shore excursions, I’ve learned a few things about making helicopter tours unforgettable. Here are my top tips for this best Alaska helicopter tour:
- Book for your first full day in port if possible. Weather delays happen in Alaska, and having a backup day gives Coastal Helicopters flexibility to reschedule if needed. Many cruise passengers make the mistake of booking their last-chance day and miss out entirely.
- Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early. The Goldbelt Tram area can get busy with multiple tour groups, and you don’t want to miss your shuttle. Look for that orange-clad representative!
- Drink the glacier water—seriously. During your walk on Herbert Glacier, your guide will offer you fresh glacier water. It’s some of the purest water on Earth, filtered through thousands of years of ice. Don’t miss this unique opportunity!
- Request a window seat if you’re traveling solo. When you secure your spot on Viator before it sells out, mention in the special requests that you’d appreciate window seating. While not guaranteed due to weight distribution, operators often accommodate solo travelers.
- Bring motion sickness medication if you’re prone to it. Helicopter flights are generally smooth, but air pockets over glaciers can cause mild turbulence. Take preventive measures 30 minutes before your flight.
The Best Times to Book
Timing matters when planning your Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk. Here’s what I recommend:
Best Time of Day: Morning flights typically offer the calmest conditions and clearest visibility. As the day warms up, thermals can create more air movement over the ice. If you have a choice, opt for the earliest departure that works with your cruise schedule.
Best Season: The Alaska cruise season runs May through September, with June through August offering the longest daylight hours and warmest temperatures. July and August tend to have the most stable weather patterns, though even then, conditions can change quickly.
Cruise Ship Considerations: If you’re arriving on a cruise ship—which most visitors to Juneau are—book this as an early excursion. Ships typically dock around 7 AM, giving you time for morning flights before the crowds arrive. This best Alaska helicopter tour is incredibly popular, and morning slots fill fast.
Why This Helicopter Tour Gets Incredible Reviews
Unforgettable Aerial Views
Visitors are blown away by the stunning helicopter flight over the vast, pristine Juneau Icefield.
Once-in-a-Lifetime Glacier Experience
Walking on Herbert Glacier and touching ancient ice is a bucket-list moment travellers rave about.
Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides
Guests love the expert guides who make the glacier walk both educational and fun for everyone.
Perfect for All Abilities
Travellers appreciate the accessible options, making this incredible adventure available to guests with mobility needs.
With a 4.7 out of 5 rating based on 558 reviews, this Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk consistently delivers exceptional experiences. Here’s what travelers consistently praise:
- Professional, knowledgeable pilots who double as engaging guides
- Seamless logistics from meeting point to helicopter to glacier and back
- Unforgettable glacier landing with adequate time to explore
- Outstanding safety record with Coastal Helicopters
- Value for money at From $484 for a comprehensive experience
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price | From $484 |
| Duration | 2 hr 30 min |
| Flight Time | 25-30 minutes |
| Glacier Walk | 20-25 minutes |
| Rating | 4.7/5 (558 reviews) |
| Operator | Coastal Helicopters |
| Accessibility | ADA accessible with lift |
Book Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk before it’s too late!
Listen, I’ve seen too many travelers wait until the last minute and miss out on life-changing experiences. This Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk is one of the most sought-after shore excursions in all of Alaska, and for good reason. The combination of helicopter flightseeing, glacier landing, and guided exploration simply can’t be matched by any other tour format.
Cruise ship capacity means thousands of passengers descend on Juneau simultaneously, all competing for limited helicopter seats. Coastal Helicopters runs multiple departures daily, but they sell out—especially during peak summer months.
Don’t let this best Alaska helicopter tour slip through your fingers. Your future self will thank you for the memories you’re about to create.
Spots Fill Fast – Reserve Your Flight Before It’s Gone!
Top-rated helicopter tours often sell out weeks in advance. Book now to lock in your seat before peak dates disappear.
Time Left in 2026 to Fly:
Where to Meet for Your Helicopter Tour
Your helicopter tour departs from Coastal Helicopters, 8995 Yandukin Dr, Juneau, AK 99801, USA. Use the map below to plan your route and arrival. We recommend arriving at least 15–20 minutes early to complete your check-in and safety briefing.
Address: Coastal Helicopters, 8995 Yandukin Dr, Juneau, AK 99801, USA — Open in Google Maps →
Things to Do Near Your Helicopter Tour
While you're in the area, make the most of your trip! Here are some top things to do near Juneau, Alaska — from beaches and local eats to landmarks worth exploring.
A stunning 13-mile long glacier with a visitor center, hiking trails, and views of icefalls and wildlife.
Famous waterfront eatery serving fresh Alaskan king crab legs and local seafood.
Guided boat excursions to see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and eagles in their natural habitat.
A scenic rocky beach offering tide pool exploration and mountain views near the ferry terminal.
An aerial tramway rising 1,800 feet for panoramic views, hiking trails, and cultural exhibits.
Award-winning museum showcasing Alaska's art, history, and natural wonders through interactive exhibits.
Helicopter Tour FAQ's
Question: What happens if weather cancels my Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk?
Answer: Coastal Helicopters offers a full refund if weather conditions prevent your flight from departing. Safety is the top priority, and pilots won't fly if visibility or wind conditions are unsafe. If possible, they'll attempt to reschedule during your port visit.
Question: Is this helicopter tour suitable for first-time flyers?
Answer: Absolutely! The pilots are experienced professionals who create a comfortable, reassuring environment. Helicopter flight is smoother than many expect, and the 25-30 minute duration is perfect for nervous first-timers.
Question: Can I bring a camera on the Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk?
Answer: Yes! Cameras, phones, and GoPros are all welcome. Just ensure they're secured with a strap, and be mindful that doors stay on for this tour, so there's no risk of dropping items.
Question: What if I exceed typical weight limits?
Answer: Coastal Helicopters uses weight-based seating to balance the aircraft properly. They accommodate guests of various sizes through strategic seating arrangements. Provide accurate weight information during booking so they can plan accordingly.
Question: How long do we actually spend on the glacier?
Answer: You'll have 20-25 minutes of exploration time on Herbert Glacier. This is enough time to walk around, take photos, drink fresh glacier water, and soak in the incredible surroundings with your pilot/guide.
Question: Is the best Alaska helicopter tour wheelchair accessible?
Answer: Yes! This tour features full ADA accessibility with a lift available for helicopter access, making it one of the most inclusive glacier helicopter experiences in the region.
Question: What should I wear for the glacier walk portion?
Answer: Dress in layers and wear closed-toe shoes. Coastal Helicopters provides boots and raincoats if conditions require them, but temperatures on the glacier are typically 20-30 degrees cooler than in town.
Question: Will I make it back to my cruise ship on time?
Answer: The tour duration is 2 hours 30 minutes, including transportation. Book a morning departure to ensure plenty of buffer time before your ship's all-aboard time. Always communicate your ship schedule to the tour operator.
There's something truly magical about standing on ancient ice, surrounded by mountains, knowing that you've just experienced Alaska in one of the most spectacular ways possible. The Juneau Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk isn't just a tour—it's a core memory waiting to happen. Don't wait another day—book your Juneau, Alaska helicopter tour today and start counting down to your adventure!
