Overview of This Glacier Helicopter Tour in Juneau
This video documents a scenic helicopter tour and glacier landing experience in Juneau, Alaska, operated by Coastal Helicopter Tours. The tour takes you airborne over Mendenhall Glacier—one of Southeast Alaska's most striking natural features—before descending onto Herbert Glacier for an on-foot exploration. It's a compact adventure that combines aerial sightseeing with the rare opportunity to walk directly on glacier ice, all accessible as a shore excursion during a cruise stop.
This experience suits travelers who want to see Alaska's wilderness from an elevated perspective and aren't deterred by small-aircraft flying or physical walking on uneven terrain. Whether you're a first-time cruiser seeking an unforgettable memory or an adventure enthusiast looking to add glacier trekking to your portfolio, this tour bundles both thrills—the rush of helicopter flight and the surreal sensation of standing on ancient ice—into a single excursion.
What You'll Experience on This Glacier Flight
- Aerial views of Mendenhall Glacier from the helicopter, showing its scale and surrounding landscape
- A helicopter landing on Herbert Glacier itself, allowing you to step out onto the ice
- A guided walk across the glacier surface, described in the video as "the walk of a lifetime"
- The contrast of raw Alaskan wilderness followed by a downtown exploration of Juneau's streets and character
- The full sensory experience of being airborne in a small aircraft with views framed by the helicopter windows
What to Know Before Booking Your Helicopter Glacier Tour
- This is a shore excursion option, meaning it's designed for cruise passengers with limited time in port—plan to book well in advance as spots fill quickly
- The tour includes both flight time and ground time on the glacier, followed by a post-tour walk through downtown Juneau
- You'll be walking on glacier ice, so sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing for cold, potentially wet conditions are essential
- The experience involves flying in a small helicopter, which requires a comfort level with aircraft and the sensations of flight
- Weather in Alaska can change rapidly; tours may be rescheduled if conditions don't permit safe flying or glacier access
- Contact Coastal Helicopter Tours directly or through your cruise line's excursion desk to confirm current availability, pricing, and any fitness or health requirements
Frequently Asked Questions About Juneau's Glacier Helicopter Tours
How long does the entire tour take?
The video doesn't specify exact duration, but it shows both a helicopter flight segment and a ground walk on the glacier, followed by a stroll through downtown. Budget several hours from the time you leave your ship until you return.
Is this tour suitable for people afraid of flying?
If you're nervous about helicopters, this tour will challenge you—it's a core part of the experience. However, many first-time flyers find the views so compelling that the flight becomes the highlight rather than a source of stress. Consider your comfort level honestly before booking.
What should I wear on a glacier walk?
Dress warmly and bring waterproof or water-resistant layers. Glacier ice is cold, and you may encounter meltwater or slip on wet surfaces. The video shows the tour in action but doesn't detail exact gear, so contact the operator for a packing list tailored to current conditions.
Can I book this as a cruise passenger?
Yes, this is designed as a shore excursion for cruise visitors to Juneau. Book through your cruise line's excursion portal or directly with Coastal Helicopter Tours, and plan ahead—these tours sell out, especially during peak cruise season.
Why visit downtown Juneau after the glacier tour?
The video pairs the high-adrenaline glacier experience with a more leisurely (though still active) walk through Juneau's streets. It offers a chance to see the town itself, perhaps grab food or coffee, and wind down before returning to your ship.
