Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour – ANCHORAGE AREA

Soaring over the rugged Church Range and Knik Glacier in a helicopter, then mushing or riding a dogsled on the Troublesome Glacier – the Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour offers a unique blend of aerial and ground-based exploration in the Anchorage area. With breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and glaciers, as well as the opportunity to interact with friendly mushers and energetic sled dogs, this tour promises a once-in-a-lifetime immersion in Alaska’s majestic wilderness. But what exactly can guests expect from this thrilling adventure? Let’s dive in and explore the details of this captivating experience.

Key Points

• The tour blends a 30-minute helicopter flight over the Church Range and Knik Glacier with a guided dogsled experience on the Troublesome Glacier.
• The tour departs from and returns to the Alaska Glacier Lodge in Palmer, Alaska, conveniently located for travelers in the Anchorage area.
• Participants can choose to mush their own dogsled team or ride on the sled, with opportunities to interact with friendly mushers and energetic canine companions.
• The tour has a total weight capacity of 450 lbs per passenger, with waterproof overboots provided and a surcharge for passengers over 250 lbs.
• The tour is highly rated, with a 5.0 rating based on 351 reviews, and it operates seasonally with an on-site restaurant available from May to September.

Tour Overview

This Alaskan adventure blends the thrill of a helicopter tour over the Church Range and Knik Glacier with the tranquility of a dogsled ride on the Troublesome Glacier, offering visitors a chance to witness native wildlife and enjoy the region’s serene natural beauty.

During the helicopter ride, guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the rugged, snow-capped mountains and the vast, glimmering glaciers below.

The dogsled experience allows participants to choose between mushing their own team or riding on the sled, with ample time to interact with the friendly, hardworking mushers and their energetic canine companions.

This tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Alaska’s majestic wilderness, leaving visitors with a deep appreciation for the state’s natural wonders.

Included Amenities

The tour includes a scenic 30-minute round trip helicopter flight over the Church Range and Knik Glacier, providing guests with breathtaking aerial views of the region’s rugged, snow-capped mountains and sprawling glaciers.

Plus, participants are outfitted with waterproof overboots to ensure comfort during the guided dogsled ride on the Troublesome Glacier.

A comfort surcharge is applied for passengers weighing over 250 pounds, and warm weather gear is recommended to ensure a pleasant experience.

Landing and facility fees, as well as the dogsled ride and helicopter flight, are all included in the tour price.

Van transfers to the departure location can be added for an additional fee by contacting the tour operator.

Departure and Return Location

The tour departs from and returns to the Alaska Glacier Lodge, located at 29979 E Knik River Rd, Palmer, AK 99645, USA.

Guests can add van transfers to the departure location by contacting the tour operator at 907-272-7777, which is an additional fee.

The activity begins and ends at this central meeting point, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience. Participants simply need to arrive at the lodge and check-in 45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

From there, they’ll board the helicopter for the scenic flight and dogsled ride before returning to the lodge at the conclusion of the tour.

The location is conveniently situated and easily accessible for travelers in the Anchorage area.

Tour Activities

Guests embark on a thrilling aerial journey aboard a helicopter, soaring over the breathtaking Church Range and Knik Glacier for a 30-minute round trip flight.

Upon landing on the Troublesome Glacier, they meet the sled dogs and have the choice to either mush their own team or ride on the sled as it glides across the snowy landscape.

During the dogsled ride, guests have the opportunity to interact with the friendly mushers and get up close with the energetic canines.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows visitors to enjoy the serene, snow-capped surroundings and witness the incredible power and intelligence of the Alaskan sled dogs.

Weight and Accessibility Information

Accommodations are made for travelers of diverse sizes and mobility levels, with a total weight capacity of 450 lbs per passenger and accessibility for wheelchair users and those with strollers.

The tour operator provides waterproof overboots for comfort, and there’s a surcharge for passengers over 250 lbs. Service animals are permitted if secured in a crate.

The activity is wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience. Travelers should dress appropriately for all weather conditions, as the tour operates in safe conditions only.

With these thoughtful provisions, the Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour caters to a wide range of participants, making it an accessible adventure for all.

Policies and Regulations

Passengers must check in 45 minutes prior to departure to ensure a timely start.

Drones, smoking items, firearms, and loose bags/backpacks are prohibited on the tour. Service animals are permitted if secured in a crate.

The operator reserves the right to cancel or modify the tour in unsafe weather conditions. Travelers should dress appropriately for alpine environments, as the tour runs rain or shine.

Customers will receive a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. The tour has a maximum capacity of 12 travelers and operates seasonally.

An on-site restaurant is available for guests. The tour provides a unique and memorable Alaskan experience while prioritizing safety and regulatory compliance.

Seasonal Services

Along With the year-round helicopter and dogsled tour, the Alaska Glacier Lodge offers seasonal restaurant service for guests visiting the site. The restaurant, open from May to September, provides a range of menu items showcasing local Alaskan cuisine. Visitors can enjoy freshly caught seafood, hearty stews, and homemade baked goods while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains.

Season	Availability	Menu Highlights
Spring (May – June)	Open weekends	Fresh salmon, rhubarb pies
Summer (July – August)	Open daily	King crab legs, wild berry desserts
Fall (September)	Open weekends	Moose chili, pumpkin spice lattes

The seasonal restaurant service adds to the overall experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the Alaskan wilderness during their visit to the Alaska Glacier Lodge.

Customer Reviews

Glowing testimonials from satisfied customers underscore the exceptional quality of the Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour, with a remarkable 5.0 rating based on an impressive 351 reviews.

Travelers rave about the tour’s breathtaking scenery, friendly staff, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

While some feedback touches on minor details like safety, aesthetics, and punctuality, the overwhelming consensus praises the tour’s professionalism and the unforgettable memories it creates.

From the thrilling helicopter rides over the Church Range and Knik Glacier to the exhilarating dogsled rides on Troublesome Glacier, the tour consistently delivers an exceptional experience that leaves customers eager to return or recommend it to others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Based on the tour details provided, guests can’t bring their own food and drinks. The tour includes waterproof overboots, but guests should dress appropriately and any prohibited items like smoking items are not allowed. Van transfers can be added for a fee.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Dogsled Ride?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement for the dogsled ride. However, infants must sit on laps during the tour. Participants of all ages are welcome, but parents should consider their child’s ability to enjoy the activity.

Can I Purchase Additional Photos or Video of the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional photos and videos of the tour. The tour provider offers a range of photo and video packages you can buy to capture your unforgettable experience on the glacier and in the helicopter.

Is There an Option to Extend the Helicopter Flight Time?

The tour package doesn’t explicitly offer an option to extend the helicopter flight time. However, customers can inquire with the tour operator about the possibility of purchasing additional flight time for an extra fee, subject to availability.

Do the Sled Dogs Have Any Special Dietary Needs I Should Know About?

The sled dogs have specialized dietary needs to fuel their active lifestyle. Their diet typically includes high-protein foods like salmon, meat, and dog-specific kibble to provide the energy they require for the dogsled rides. Any special dietary requirements can be discussed with the tour staff.

Recap

The Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour offers an unparalleled experience, blending aerial and ground-based exploration in the Anchorage area.

Guests can soar over stunning landscapes and mush through glacial terrain, seeing Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness.

With friendly mushers, energetic sled dogs, and awe-inspiring views, this tour provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the true beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.