Overview of This Juneau Helicopter Tour to Herbert Glacier
This video follows a traveler on a scenic helicopter tour departing from Juneau, Alaska, organized by Coastal Tours. The flight takes you from the coastal town of Juneau to Herbert Glacier, a stunning natural attraction that showcases Alaska's raw alpine beauty. This is the kind of bucket-list experience that combines adventure with spectacular aerial views—perfect for travelers who want to see glaciers and dramatic landscapes without spending days hiking into the backcountry.
The tour suits anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime Alaskan experience, whether you're a seasoned traveler, a nature photographer, or someone celebrating a milestone. Juneau's location in Southeast Alaska makes it an ideal base for glacier viewing, and a helicopter tour cuts through the logistics of ground-based access while delivering views that are simply impossible to reach otherwise. If you're building your own bucket list, this kind of experience tends to fill up quickly, so advance booking is essential.
What to Expect: Highlights of the Herbert Glacier Flight
- Aerial views of Herbert Glacier itself—the focal point of the tour and a dramatic sight from above
- Coastal scenery surrounding Juneau, including water, islands, and the Southeast Alaska landscape
- The experience of flying by helicopter, which offers a perspective on the terrain impossible from the ground
- A bucket-list moment—the video creator explicitly marks this as a major accomplishment, suggesting the tour delivers a memorable, worthwhile experience
- Close-up glacier views that showcase the scale and beauty of Alaska's ice formations
What to Know Before Booking Your Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour
- Book directly with Coastal Tours, the operator featured in the video, or through Juneau tourism providers—demand for helicopter tours is high, especially in peak season
- The tour departs from Juneau, so plan to arrive in the city before your scheduled flight time
- Dress in layers; helicopter cabins can be cool, and you'll be at altitude viewing glaciers, so bring a warm jacket and comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Check weather conditions before your trip—Southeast Alaska's coastal weather can change, and visibility matters for both safety and photo opportunities
- Bring a camera or phone ready to capture the views; the video suggests passengers actively photograph the experience
- Plan this tour as a priority activity; glacier and helicopter tours in Alaska fill weeks in advance during summer months
Frequently Asked Questions About Herbert Glacier Helicopter Tours
How long does the helicopter tour typically last?
The video does not specify the exact duration, but glacier helicopter tours in the Juneau area usually range from 45 minutes to two hours depending on the operator and package. Contact Coastal Tours directly for their precise flight time.
Is the Herbert Glacier helicopter tour safe?
Helicopter tours operate under strict federal aviation regulations. Coastal Tours is an established Juneau operator, which suggests they maintain professional safety standards. Always confirm their safety record and certifications before booking.
What is the best time of year to visit Herbert Glacier by helicopter?
Late spring through early fall typically offers the clearest weather and longest daylight hours in Juneau, making it ideal for helicopter tours. Winter is possible but weather-dependent and may result in cancellations. Early booking is crucial regardless of season.
Can you land on Herbert Glacier during the tour?
The video shows an aerial tour of the glacier, but it does not specify whether the helicopter lands on the ice. Some Juneau operators offer glacier landings while others provide flyover tours only. Confirm what your specific tour includes when booking with Coastal Tours.
What should I wear on the helicopter tour?
Wear warm, layered clothing—a fleece or insulated jacket is essential. Bring waterproof outerwear if possible, closed-toe hiking boots or sturdy shoes, and sunglasses to reduce glare from snow and ice. The altitude and helicopter cabin temperature make dressing warmly important even in summer.
