✅ Specialized Ice Gear
Helicopter operators provide required over-boots and safety equipment for glacier landings. You just need warm layers!
📍 Port Pickup Included
All major tour operators provide complimentary round-trip transport from the Mount Roberts Tramway area or nearby docks.
🎫 Permitted Landings Only
Glacier landings require a USFS Special Use Permit. See how the permit system works and why it limits which operators can land.
The "Big Three" Helicopter Operators
All three fly to different parts of the Juneau Icefield. Choose based on your landing preference!
Locally Owned
Coastal Helicopters
From $484
Aircraft
Landing
- Often lands on Herbert Glacier for a more remote feel
- Famous for the "Double Landing" (Hike + Dogsled combo)
- Locally owned with a focus on off-the-beaten-path experiences
- Personalized feel with highly experienced pilots
Best For: Travelers looking to avoid the cruise crowds and those interested in combination adventures.
Ice Trekking Specialists
NorthStar Trekking
From $599
Aircraft
Trekking
- The specialists in Glacier Trekking & Ice Climbing
- Longer time on the ice (1 to 3 full hours)
- Provides technical gear: Crampons, Ice Axes, Harnesses
- Smallest group sizes for maximum safety and education
Best For: Active adventure seekers who want to actually hike the glacier, not just stand on it.
Visit NorthStarTrekking.com →Established Since 1947
TEMSCO Helicopters
From $433
Aircraft
Landing
- Primary operator for Mendenhall Glacier landings
- Oldest & most established heli-tour operator in Alaska
- Tours range from 20-min walks to Dogsledding
- Convenient heli-base near the airport
Best For: Those wanting the classic Mendenhall Glacier landing experience and professional, high-volume reliability.
Visit TEMSCOair.com →Floatplane Expeditions
For those who want a classic Alaskan bush plane experience with downtown convenience.
Aerial Only
5-Glacier Seaplane Exploration
From $367
Seaplane
Taku Glacier
⚠️ NOTE: This flight does NOT view the Mendenhall Glacier. Instead, you soar over Norris, Hole-in-the-Wall, East Twin, West Twin, and Taku.
- Downtown Departure — steps away from your cruise ship
- Guaranteed Window Seat for every passenger
- Efficient: The tour takes only about an hour
Fly + Feast
5-Glacier Seaplane & Taku Lodge Feast
From $511
Lodge Exterior
Salmon Feast
- Remote Lodge Landing at historic Taku Lodge across from the advancing Taku Glacier
- World-famous wild Alaskan salmon grilled over an alder wood fire
- Guided Wilderness Walk exploring the 1923 hunting lodge grounds
- Remarkably high chance of seeing wild black bears drawn by the alderwood grill
Aerial Tour FAQ
What is the weight limit for helicopters?
Most operators require a surcharge or second seat for passengers over 250 lbs to ensure aircraft balance.
What happens if it rains?
Flights only cancel for low visibility or high winds. Rain itself often makes the glacial blue colors more vibrant!
Ready to Fly
Ready for the Ultimate View?
Let us help you choose between Mendenhall, Taku, or Herbert glacier flights.
Thank You!
Your aerial inquiry is on its way!