Bear Glacier helicopter tour from Seward: 30-minute scenic flight

Icebergs, rock spires and glacial moraines from above

A 30-minute helicopter flight from Seward over Resurrection Bay and Bear Glacier, the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. The tour includes an FAA-certified pilot and departs from the operator's office; groups are capped at three passengers per helicopter. You'll fly over Bear Glacier's medial moraines, watch for whales and seals below, and may spot the Harding Icefield and waterfalls depending on conditions.

Step-by-step itinerary

Helicopter scenic flight over glaciers

• Start tour at office
• Fly over Resurrection Bay
• View World War 2 installations and wildlife
• Fly over Bear Glacier and its lagoon
• Return to office

The Experience

What can you actually see from a helicopter that you can't from the ground? On this 30-minute flight, you're looking down at Bear Glacier's two medial moraines—the dark bands of rock running through the ice—and the lagoon packed with icebergs calving from the glacier face. The helicopter starts and ends at the operator's office in Seward, so there's no transfer time eating into your flight. An FAA-certified pilot narrates the route, pointing out old World War 2 installations along Resurrection Bay's coastline and calling out wildlife—whales, seals—as they appear below.

The flight path takes you over Resurrection Bay first, where the rock spires that define Seward's coast come into focus. From there you head to Bear Glacier itself, the largest glacier in the Kenai Fjords. Depending on the day's conditions, you may also see the Harding Icefield and waterfalls. The whole flight is 30 minutes; groups max out at three passengers per helicopter to keep the cabin uncrowded and sightlines clear. A minimum of two people per booking is required, and infants can sit on an adult's lap.

What’s included

• 30-minute helicopter flight with an FAA-certified pilot.
• live commentary in English.
• all taxes, fees and handling charges.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Seward Helicopter Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you want live narration in English throughout the flight—you'll understand what you're seeing as the pilot points it out, rather than watching silently.

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Top questions

What's the difference between Bear Glacier and the other glaciers I might see from Seward?

Bear Glacier is the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park and is notable for its two medial moraines—dark bands of rock embedded in the ice that are especially visible from the air. The lagoon in front of it is full of icebergs, which you'll see calving and drifting as the helicopter passes overhead.

Can I see wildlife on this flight?

Yes. Whales and seals are common sightings in Resurrection Bay, and the pilot watches for them throughout the flight and points them out. You might also spot eagles and other birds, though wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

How many people fit in the helicopter?

A maximum of three guests per helicopter, with a minimum of two people required to book. Seating is arranged according to weight and balance; the operator will accommodate passenger preferences whenever possible. There is a 290-pound weight limit per seat, including gear.

Does the flight include a guide?

Yes. An FAA-certified pilot flies the helicopter and provides live commentary in English throughout the 30-minute flight, narrating the sights as you pass over Resurrection Bay and Bear Glacier.

Where do I meet for the flight?

The tour starts and ends at the operator's office in Seward. Public transportation options are available nearby if you need to reach the office from your hotel.