Anchorage: Helicopter Glacier Landing & Guided Ice Walk

Summary

Helicopter over Alaska’s wild ice fields then land right on Knik Glacier for a real walk on blue ancient ice with your pilot guiding every step

You’ll lift off from Anchorage by helicopter, soaring over Alaskan valleys before landing right on Knik Glacier’s ancient ice. Walk with your guide among blue meltwater pools and sculpted ridges—spikes provided—soaking in silence and wild air. Whether standing atop the glacier or beside its frozen walls in winter, you’ll remember the chill and that unreal landscape long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re about to step onto ice older than the pyramids,” our pilot grinned as we hovered over the Knik Glacier, and honestly I thought he was joking until the doors opened and that cold, blue light hit my face. The helicopter ride itself felt like cheating at life — just straight up from the Alaska Glacier Lodge in Mat-Su Valley, mountains everywhere, rivers twisting below us like silver threads. My hands were freezing but I couldn’t stop pressing my nose to the window. There’s something about seeing those crevasses and weird wind-carved shapes from above that makes you feel both tiny and kind of lucky.

Landing right in the middle of the glacier was… I don’t know, surreal? The crunch under my boots (they gave us these spiky things for grip), the way sound sort of vanishes except for wind and distant cracking — it’s quiet but not empty. Our guide pointed out little pools so blue they looked fake, told stories about how this place changes every year. I tried to pronounce “Knik” properly — Li laughed when I butchered it. We had maybe half an hour out there, just wandering between ridges and peering into icy cracks. It’s hard not to take a million photos but also hard to look away long enough to get your phone out.

I still think about how cold my cheeks got, and how everyone went quiet at one point just listening to nothing but wind. If you do this helicopter glacier tour from Anchorage in winter, they might land next to these wild deep-blue formations instead of right on top — apparently depends on snow cover for safety. Either way, it’s not something you forget soon. Oh — check-in is early (we almost messed that up), so don’t cut it close or you’ll risk missing out entirely.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helicopter tour and glacier landing

• Check in 30 minutes before departure
• Take off from Alaska Glacier Lodge
• Fly to Knik Glacier
• Land on the glacier
• Hike on ice with provided spikes
• Take pictures of glacier features
• Return flight to lodge

Top questions

How long is the Alaska helicopter glacier tour?

The total tour time is about 1 hour, including around 30 minutes flying and 30 minutes walking on or near Knik Glacier.

Does this glacier landing tour include pickup from Anchorage hotels?

No, hotel pickup is not included by default but can be added for a fee when booking.

Where does the helicopter depart for the Knik Glacier tour?

The tour departs from Alaska Glacier Lodge in the Mat-Su Valley near Anchorage.

Is this glacier tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels and is wheelchair accessible.

Can infants join the helicopter glacier landing tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during the flight.

Are there seasonal differences for this Alaska glacier tour?

Yes; in summer you land directly on top of Knik Glacier; in winter (Oct–Apr) you may land beside deep blue ice formations due to snow cover.

What should I bring or leave behind for this helicopter tour?

Bags/backpacks aren’t allowed; lockers are available at departure. No drones or smoking items permitted.

Do I need special gear for walking on the glacier?

No; ice spikes are provided so you can safely walk on the glacier surface during your guided hike.

What’s included

Your day includes a roundtrip helicopter flight from Alaska Glacier Lodge over valleys and rivers to Knik Glacier with all fees covered; a guided 30-minute hike or walk on ancient ice (with provided spikes); plus taxes included—just remember to check in 45 minutes early so you don’t miss your spot.