What to Expect on This Helicopter Experience
Hey there, I’m Justin! After years of helping cruise passengers find the most incredible excursions in Alaska, I can tell you that the Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour with NorthStar Trekking in Juneau is genuinely one of the most unforgettable adventures you’ll ever experience. This isn’t just another helicopter tour — it’s a full-blown expedition that combines breathtaking aerial scenery with hands-on ice climbing on the ancient Mendenhall Glacier.
Safety & Operator Credentials: NorthStar Trekking
With over two decades of safe operations in the Juneau Icefield, NorthStar Trekking has established itself as a premier helicopter tour operator with an unwavering commitment to passenger safety. Their combination of experienced pilots, well-maintained aircraft, and intimate knowledge of local conditions makes them a trusted choice for glacier adventures.
NorthStar Trekking operates under FAA Part 135 certification, maintaining full compliance with all federal aviation regulations and safety standards.
The company maintains an impeccable safety record with rigorous pre-flight inspections and strict adherence to weather minimums for all glacier excursions.
NorthStar operates a fleet of Airbus AS350 helicopters, known for their reliability, power, and exceptional performance in Alaska’s demanding mountain environments.
All pilots hold commercial helicopter ratings with extensive experience flying in Juneau’s unique coastal mountain terrain, many with thousands of glacier landing hours.
NorthStar Trekking has earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence and is highly rated on Viator for their professional glacier hiking and dog sledding tours.
📅 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.
When I first heard about this tour, I knew it was something special. Picture this: you’re soaring in an A-Star Helicopter over the massive Tongass National Forest, catching glimpses of the sprawling Juneau Icefield below, and then touching down on a glacier to actually climb the ice with professional guides. At From $599 for 4 hr 15 min of pure adventure, this helicopter tour review practically writes itself because the experience speaks for itself.
What makes this the best Alaska helicopter tour for adventure seekers? It’s Juneau’s only ice climbing activity — you literally cannot do this anywhere else in the city. The combination of helicopter flight and guided climbing instruction creates an experience that will have you talking about it for years. If you’re ready for something extraordinary, book this Juneau, Alaska helicopter tour on Viator before the limited spots fill up.
Everything That’s Covered in Your Tour
One thing I always tell travelers is to look at what’s included before booking any excursion, and NorthStar Trekking really delivers here. The Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour provides absolutely everything you need for a safe and comfortable glacier adventure.
Is This Tour Right for You? ✅
Your tour includes:
- Jackets and pants — professional-grade gear to keep you warm on the ice
- Crampons — those spiked attachments that let you walk and climb on glacier ice
- Helmet — safety first on those ice walls
- Climbing harness — professional climbing equipment
- Ice tools — the real deal for your glacier ascent
- Pickup included — van transportation from the dock to the helicopter base and back
This means you don’t need to stress about bringing specialized gear. Just show up ready for adventure, and the NorthStar Trekking team handles the rest. This comprehensive approach is part of what makes this helicopter tour review so positive — they’ve thought of everything.
Helicopter Tour Tip
Wear moisture-wicking base layers under the provided gear. Cotton holds sweat and can make you cold on the glacier, while synthetic or merino wool keeps you comfortable throughout the climb.
Sights You’ll See from the Sky
The Magnificent Tongass National Forest
Your Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour begins with a stunning flight over the Tongass National Forest, America’s largest national forest. From your A-Star helicopter, you’ll witness 17 million acres of temperate rainforest stretching to the horizon. The emerald green canopy, winding rivers, and misty mountain peaks create a landscape that feels almost prehistoric.
The Juneau Icefield
As your pilot navigates toward the glacier, you’ll fly over the incredible Juneau Icefield — one of the largest ice masses in North America. This massive field of ice spans over 1,500 square miles and feeds more than 30 glaciers. Seeing it from above gives you a perspective that hikers simply cannot achieve. The blues and whites of the ice against the dark mountain peaks are absolutely breathtaking.
Mendenhall Glacier Landing Zone
The grand finale of your aerial journey is touching down on the Mendenhall Glacier itself. This is where the best Alaska helicopter tour transforms into an adventure sport experience. The glacier’s surface reveals crevasses, ice formations, and brilliant blue pools that most visitors only see from the distant viewing center. You’re about to walk — and climb — on 3,000 years of compressed snowfall.
If these sights have you excited, check availability and pricing here to lock in your preferred date.
Need-to-Know Info Before You Fly
Before you head off on your Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour, there are some practical details you’ll want to know.
Physical Requirements:
This tour involves actual ice climbing, so you’ll need a moderate fitness level. You don’t need prior climbing experience — the expert guides teach you everything from scratch. However, you should be comfortable with physical activity and able to handle approximately two hours of active climbing and trekking on uneven ice surfaces.
- Sturdy hiking boots or athletic shoes with ankle support
- Long pants (no shorts, even in summer)
- Layers you can adjust as you warm up from climbing
- Sunglasses — glacier glare is intense
Weight Limits:
Like most helicopter tours, there are weight considerations for safety and balance. Contact NorthStar Trekking directly for specific requirements.
The Itinerary:
Your adventure follows a well-organized schedule:
- Van transport to NorthStar Helicopter base at Juneau Airport
- Gear up, restroom break and safety briefing
- Helicopter flight over Juneau Icefield
- Guided trek and ice climb on Mendenhall Glacier
- Helicopter flight back to Heliport
- Van transfer from Heliport to dock
The total experience runs 4 hr 15 min, with roughly 2 hours dedicated specifically to your glacier climbing adventure.
Booking Flexibility & Refund Policy
I know Alaska weather can be unpredictable, and that’s why NorthStar Trekking’s cancellation policy matters. For a full refund, you can cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This gives you peace of mind when booking in advance.
The tour also offers Instant confirmation, so you’ll know immediately that your spot is secured.
Weather plays a significant role in helicopter operations. If conditions aren’t safe for flying, tours may be rescheduled or refunded. I’ve seen this happen, and NorthStar Trekking handles it professionally. They’d rather have you safe and disappointed than risk anything in sketchy weather.
Insider Tips from Justin
Hey everyone, Justin here. After helping countless travelers plan their Alaska adventures, I’ve picked up some insider knowledge about the Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour that I want to share with you.
- Book early in your trip — If weather cancels your first attempt, you might be able to reschedule. Many cruise visitors book for their first day in port for exactly this reason.
- Use the restroom during the safety briefing break — There are no facilities on the glacier, and trust me, cold air plus nervous excitement makes this important!
- Don’t underestimate the workout — Ice climbing engages muscles you didn’t know you had. A light stretching routine the morning of your tour can help prevent soreness.
- Bring a waterproof camera or phone case — Melting ice and glacier pools can splash your electronics. Protect your devices so you can capture every moment of this secure your spot on Viator before it sells out experience.
- Eat a good breakfast — You’ll burn serious calories climbing. A protein-rich meal before your tour keeps your energy levels high throughout the adventure.
The Best Times to Book
Morning flights for the Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour tend to offer the clearest visibility and calmest winds. Alaska’s weather is most stable in the early hours before afternoon thermal patterns develop.
Seasonality matters for this helicopter tour review:
- May-June — Longer days, fewer crowds, glacier ice is firm and ideal for climbing
- July-August — Peak season with warmer temperatures, but also the busiest booking period
- September — Shoulder season offers beautiful fall colors in the surrounding forest
Cruise ship passengers should coordinate with their ship’s departure time. With a 4 hr 15 min duration plus buffer time, ensure you’re back well before the all-aboard.
Why This Helicopter Tour Gets Incredible Reviews
Unforgettable Helicopter Experience
Visitors rave about the breathtaking flight over Tongass National Forest and dramatic mountain scenery before landing on ice.
Expert Guide Instruction
Travellers praise the knowledgeable guides who make ice climbing accessible and enjoyable for beginners and experienced climbers alike.
Unique Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure
Guests love that this is Juneau’s only ice climbing experience, making it a truly exclusive bucket-list activity.
Stunning Glacier Setting
Reviewers highlight the awe-inspiring beauty of climbing on Mendenhall Glacier with incredible Juneau Icefield views surrounding them.
The Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour has earned a perfect 5 out of 5 rating based on reviews from adventurers who’ve experienced this incredible journey. That flawless score tells you everything about the quality NorthStar Trekking delivers.
Why travelers love this tour:
- Price: From $599 for over 4 hours of adventure
- Duration: 4 hr 15 min of helicopter flights and glacier exploration
- Exclusive experience: Juneau’s only ice climbing activity
- Expert instruction: Guides teach complete beginners to climb confidently
- Comprehensive gear: Everything provided, nothing to worry about
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price | From $599 |
| Duration | 4 hr 15 min |
| Rating | 5 out of 5 (5 reviews) |
| Helicopter | A-Star |
| Key Highlight | 2-hour guided ice climbing |
| Unique Factor | Only ice climbing in Juneau |
This best Alaska helicopter tour stands out because it combines aerial sightseeing with genuine adventure. Most helicopter tours land briefly for photos — this one puts ice tools in your hands and teaches you to climb.
Book Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour before it’s too late!
Listen, I’ve reviewed countless helicopter tours across Alaska, Hawaii, and beyond, and this Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour consistently ranks among the most extraordinary experiences available. The combination of A-Star helicopter flights, glacier landing, and professional ice climbing instruction creates memories that last a lifetime.
Spots on this tour fill quickly, especially during peak cruise season. NorthStar Trekking maintains small group sizes to ensure everyone gets personalized attention from the expert guides. That personal touch is fantastic for your experience, but it means availability disappears fast.
Don’t miss your chance to experience Juneau’s only glacier ice climbing adventure. The Mendenhall Glacier won’t wait forever — and neither should you.
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 NorthStar Helicopters (NorthStar Trekking) 1890 Renshaw Way, 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: NorthStar Helicopters (NorthStar Trekking) 1890 Renshaw Way, 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 12-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 popular local beach perfect for picnics, beachcombing, and enjoying mountain views along the shoreline.
Showcases Alaska's history, native cultures, and natural wonders through extensive exhibits and artifacts.
Scenic aerial tramway rising 1,800 feet offering panoramic views, hiking trails, and a nature center.
Helicopter Tour FAQ's
Question: Do I need previous ice climbing experience for this tour?
Answer: Absolutely not! The Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour is designed for complete beginners. The expert guides from NorthStar Trekking teach you all the fundamentals during your 2-hour climbing session. They start with basic techniques and help you progress at your own pace.
Question: What happens if weather cancels my helicopter tour?
Answer: If conditions aren't safe for flying, your tour will be cancelled and you'll receive a full refund. You may also be able to reschedule depending on availability. This is why I recommend booking early in your trip if possible.
Question: Is the 24-hour cancellation policy flexible for cruise passengers?
Answer: The standard policy offers full refunds when you cancel at least 24 hours before departure. For specific cruise-related concerns, contact NorthStar Trekking directly to discuss your situation.
Question: How long is the actual helicopter flight?
Answer: The tour includes helicopter flights to and from the Mendenhall Glacier over the Juneau Icefield and Tongass National Forest. While exact flight times vary with conditions, expect roughly 20-25 minutes of flight time in total.
Question: What fitness level do I need?
Answer: Moderate fitness is recommended. You'll be active for approximately 2 hours on the glacier, climbing and trekking on uneven ice. You don't need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable with sustained physical activity.
Question: Can I bring my own camera?
Answer: Yes! Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the experience. I recommend a waterproof case since glacier environments involve moisture. Your guides may also capture some moments to share.
Question: What type of helicopter is used?
Answer: NorthStar Trekking uses an A-Star Helicopter for this tour. The A-Star is known for its excellent visibility and smooth flight characteristics, perfect for scenic mountain flying.
Question: Is lunch or water provided?
Answer: The tour includes professional gear but not food or beverages. Eat a substantial meal before your Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour and stay hydrated.
Question: How far in advance should I book?
Answer: I strongly recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks in advance during peak season (June-August). This best Alaska helicopter tour sells out regularly due to limited availability.
Question: Are doors-off flights available?
Answer: This tour operates with doors on for safety during glacier operations. The A-Star's large windows provide excellent visibility throughout your flight.
Ready to experience the adventure of a lifetime? The Helicopter Glacier Ice Climbing Tour with NorthStar Trekking awaits — book your Juneau, Alaska helicopter tour today and prepare for an experience you'll never forget!
