What to Expect From This Juneau Glacier Helicopter Tour
This helicopter tour takes you on a scenic flight over Alaska's Juneau Icefield, followed by a rare chance to land directly on Herbert Glacier and explore it on foot. The video follows a cruise passenger from takeoff at Juneau through aerial views of Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls, then down to the glacier surface itself for a guided walk. The entire experience includes roundtrip transportation from the cruise port, making it seamless for travelers with limited time in port.
This excursion suits adventurous cruise passengers who want more than a typical shore tour—you'll experience both the majesty of Alaska's ice fields from above and the intimate, hands-on thrill of standing on an active glacier. It's ideal if you're moderately fit and comfortable with small-aircraft flights, and it works well for families and groups booking together through the same operator.
Key Moments
Highlights of the Glacier Flight and Icefield Walk
- Aerial views of Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls during the initial flight segment
- Direct landing on Herbert Glacier with guided foot access across the ice
- Walking across glacier streams and meltwater features on the ice surface
- Opportunity to collect and drink fresh glacier water directly from the source
- Return flight over Juneau with views of the landscape from above
Before You Book This Juneau Helicopter Excursion
- Total duration covers takeoff, flight, glacier exploration, and return landing (see timeline below for segment lengths)
- Roundtrip transportation from the cruise port is included in the tour package
- Book through Viator or the tour operator in advance; spaces fill quickly for cruise excursions, especially during peak season
- Dress in layers and bring a waterproof or windproof jacket—helicopter cabins are cool and winds at glacier elevation are cold even in summer
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots with good grip for walking on glacier ice
- Bring a water bottle or container if you want to collect glacier water; the video shows this is permitted
Frequently Asked Questions About This Glacier Helicopter Tour
Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers with limited port time?
Yes. The tour includes roundtrip transportation from the cruise port and is designed as a shore excursion, so logistics are handled for you. The entire experience is paced to fit within a typical cruise port stop in Juneau.
What do I need to wear for a glacier helicopter tour?
Wear multiple layers and a waterproof or windproof outer jacket, since helicopter cabins are cool and glacier elevations are cold. Sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots with good traction are essential for walking safely on glacier ice.
Can you really walk on the glacier, or just view it from a distance?
You actually land on Herbert Glacier and walk across it with a guide. The video shows hikers exploring the ice surface, crossing meltwater streams, and collecting glacier water—it's a hands-on experience, not a viewing-only tour.
How long is the helicopter flight itself?
The video shows distinct segments for takeoff, the Mendenhall Glacier flyover, landing on Herbert, the glacier walk, and return flight. While the exact total duration isn't stated in the video, the segments suggest a half-day excursion, which is typical for cruise-compatible tours.
Do I need prior hiking experience for the glacier walk?
The video does not mention steep climbing or technical skills. A guide leads the group across the ice, so basic fitness and comfort walking on uneven, slippery terrain are the main requirements. Always confirm fitness expectations when booking.
