Prince WIlliam Sound Helicopter Tour

About The Tour

Experience the thrill of Alaska’s most breathtaking glacier helicopter tour. This tour is our longest adventure, spanning 1 hour and 45 minutes, and includes multiple glacier viewings, as well as a landing. As part of this adventure, you’ll witness the Knik Glacier, Colony Glacier, Lake George, Eklutna Glacier, and Whiteout Glacier. Our glacier heli tours offer an unforgettable journey across these awe-inspiring landscapes.

The adventure doesn’t stop there. Heading south to Prince William Sound, you’ll get to see Harriman, Serpentine, Barry, and Surprise Glaciers as they flow into Harriman Fjord. A highlight of this Prince William Sound helicopter tour is a 30-minute glacier landing, where you can step out and experience Alaska’s natural beauty up close. Priced at $895 per person with a two-person minimum, this tour is truly one of the best things to do in Alaska for any nature enthusiast.

Prince William Sound Tour Availability

See availability and choose a time for your tour. Or read on to find out more about the Hatcher Pass Helicopter Tour with Heli Alaska, Inc.

TOUR QUICK LINKS

Jump ahead to find out more about each of the points of interest on your Prince William Sound Helicopter Tour with Heli Alaska. This Alaska helicopter tour with its glacier landing introduces you to the stunning Chugach State Park. We’ll cover several magnificent glaciers along our journey, each offering unique views and characteristics. Don’t miss the excellent photography opportunities. We’ll also detail our exciting tour route and share information about other exciting activities available in the region. So buckle up, and get ready for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure tour.

Additional Landing $50

Upgrade your adventure! Add an extra landing to your tour in the checkout and take your experience to the next level. Step out of the helicopter again to get even closer to Alaska’s awe-inspiring natural wonders, stretch your legs, and immerse yourself further in the breathtaking scenery. This additional stop lets you soak in the stunning views like never before, making your adventure even more unforgettable.

What is Prince William Sound

Prince William Sound is where Alaska’s rugged Kenai Peninsula meets the vast Gulf of Alaska. Tucked along the Gulf’s southern coast, this protected inlet is home to numerous islands, including the expansive Montague and Hinchinbrook Islands, which help shield it from the powerful North Pacific Ocean. Stretching from Chenega in the west to Cordova in the east, Prince William Sound spans an impressive 3,800 miles of coastline—larger than the U.S. coastline! This region is a haven of natural beauty and wildlife, ideal for those seeking glacier sightseeing and the best adventure experiences in Alaska. Join us on a Prince William Sound helicopter tour to experience this incredible landscape from above and take in all the best views Alaska has to offer.

What Is a Sound Anyway?

A sound is a unique coastal feature, typically a wide body of water connected to the sea or ocean. Sounds vary in size and depth, often deeper than a bight but wider than a fjord. Some sounds may resemble a narrow channel or strait, bordered by land on each side. In Alaska, Prince William Sound is one of the most striking examples, with its protected waters and vast surrounding coastline. This unique geographic structure provides a breathtaking setting for a glacier tour, where you can explore the Sound’s many hidden bays and inlets.

North of Prince William Sound, you’ll encounter Chugach National Forest, one of Alaska’s most impressive natural areas. Covering 6.9 million acres, it’s the second largest forest in the U.S., after the Tongass National Forest. Spanning diverse terrains, Chugach provides endless opportunities for adventure experiences. If you’re looking for heli tours that reveal Alaska’s rugged beauty, the Prince William Sound helicopter tour offers unmatched scenic views of both forests and fjords.

Beyond its stunning landscape, Prince William Sound is a thriving habitat for many marine species. Whales, sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, and seabirds call this area home, making it a prime location for wildlife spotting. With each helicopter flight, you’ll witness the vibrant ecosystem that makes Prince William Sound such a rich and diverse natural destination.

History of Prince William Sound

In 1778, British explorer Captain James Cook first mapped the area we now call Prince William Sound. Originally, he named it “Sandwich Sound” to honor the Earl of Sandwich, his supporter and the First Lord of the Admiralty. Cook’s explorations during three major voyages from 1768 to 1779 spanned the Pacific Ocean, including the first recorded circumnavigation of New Zealand. His efforts introduced the world to new regions, including the eastern coast of Australia and the Hawaiian Islands, marking him as one of history’s most influential explorers.

That same year, “Sandwich Sound” became Prince William Sound, renamed in honor of King George III’s son, Prince William Henry. At the time, Prince William Henry was only 13 and serving as a midshipman in the British Navy. This historic name change linked Alaska’s coastline with British royal history. Today, travelers on a Prince William Sound helicopter tour can fly over these same waters, exploring its remarkable landscapes and rich history from above—a truly unique way to experience Alaska’s past and present.

Exploring Prince WIlliam Sound

In 1790, the explorer Salvador Hidalgo ventured into Prince William Sound. His exploration had a lasting impact, with several places within the region still bearing names he bestowed, such as Port Valdez, Port Gravina, and Cordova. Landing in Cordova, Hidalgo took a significant step – he claimed the land in the name of the King of Spain.

The World's 2nd Largest Earthquake

On March 27, 1964, the Good Friday earthquake struck Prince William Sound, recording a magnitude of 9.2 on the Richter scale. This massive quake lasted four minutes and thirty-eight seconds, making it the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in North America. The tremors triggered a 27-foot tsunami that devastated coastal communities, destroying the town of Chenega and nearly wiping out Valdez. This earthquake remains the second strongest in world history, a dramatic reminder of Alaska’s seismic activity.

The most powerful earthquake occurred four years earlier in 1960 near Valdivia, Chile. Known as the Great Chilean earthquake, it reached a magnitude of 9.5 and triggered far-reaching tsunamis that impacted southern Chile, Hawaii, Japan, the Philippines, and even the Aleutian Islands. The forces released by these seismic events reshaped coastal landscapes and impacted lives across continents, underscoring the sheer power of nature.

Your Landing on a Glacier

Walking on glaciers in Alaska is a rare experience, and we make sure you’re ready to explore safely. After landing, your pilot will provide crampons for secure footing, allowing you to wander the glacier’s icy expanse with confidence. There’s plenty of time to snap photos, take videos, and enjoy the stunning blue glacial pools around you. This experience will leave you with unforgettable memories. Be sure to pack warm clothing for the crisp, chilly air up here on the glacier.

If you’re up for a thrill, consider taking a dip in the glacier’s icy water—a true glacier adventure experience! A quick plunge is refreshing and unforgettable, so bring a towel and change of clothes if you’re ready to brave the chill. Alternatively, enjoy a natural glacial mud mask, a sought-after experience that’s a treat for the skin. From stunning vistas to these unique moments, your glacier landing offers an authentic slice of Alaska’s natural wonders.

Chugach State Park

Our Prince William Sound tour takes you on an unforgettable journey flying over the rugged terrain of Chugach State Park. This vast park spans 495,204 acres along Alaska’s south-central coast, making it one of the largest state parks in the U.S. Home to diverse ecosystems, it offers both locals and tourists a place for peaceful reflection or thrilling outdoor activities. Managed by Alaska State Parks and the Department of Natural Resources, the park preserves wildlife habitats and ensures these natural wonders remain protected for future generations.

Bordered by the Chugach National Forest to the east, Chugach State Park is a breathtaking blend of wild forests, glaciers, and the Chugach Mountains. This park could comfortably fit major cities like New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles within its boundaries, highlighting its impressive scale. With stunning landscapes and a wide range of recreation options, it’s no wonder Chugach ranks high among the best day trips from Anchorage and must-see destinations for Alaska flying adventures.

Video from AlaskaStateParks: Chugach State Park borders Alaska’s largest city, the Municipality of Anchorage, and is a 495,000-acre dream-come-true for outdoor enthusiasts. Once you’ve visited Chugach State Park, you will understand why Alaskans rarely leave the state in summer.

Recreation in Chugach State Park

Chugach State Park is the largest wilderness area near a major city, making it a prime location for accessible outdoor recreation. Covering over 495,000 acres, the park boasts 280 miles of trails leading from 16 trailheads, offering options for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and more. With a range of activities, from scenic helicopter tours and snowmobiling to glacier viewing and photography, there’s something for everyone. Our PWS glacier helicopter tour offers breathtaking views of the park’s rugged landscapes, ideal for capturing Alaska’s natural beauty.

The Chugach Mountains and the park’s glaciers set a dramatic backdrop, attracting wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. The park is home to a rich array of wildlife, including moose, brown bears, black bears, Dall sheep, lynx, river otters, and mountain goats. With its vast wilderness and diverse habitats, Chugach State Park is a must for those seeking flying adventures and glacier sightseeing in Alaska.

Knik VS Prince WIlliam Sound Tours

Our Prince William Sound Scenic Helicopter Tour provides a stunning view of nine distinct glaciers, including four that you won’t see on our Heli Alaska Knik Glacier Tour. Unique to this journey are the Harriman, Serpentine, Barry, and Surprise Glaciers. On both helitours, you’ll soar above the Knik, Colony, Lake George, Eklutna, and Whiteout Glaciers, capturing the splendor of these icy giants from an unrivaled vantage point.

Harriman Glacier

Prince William Sound Tour Only

Harriman Glacier stretches 8 miles through the northwest area of Prince William Sound, ending at the head of Harriman Fjord. It is one of nine named glaciers flowing into this fjord, standing out for both its scale and history. The glacier is named after Edward H. Harriman, a New York financier and railroad magnate who funded the 1899 Harriman Alaska Expedition. This expedition brought scientists and naturalists to Alaska to catalog the rich flora and fauna along its coast. Harriman had the SS George W. Elder specially refitted for this journey, turning the vessel into a 250-foot floating base for exploration. Today, the glacier’s historic and natural significance makes it a popular highlight on our Prince William Sound Glacier Tours.

Why Did Harriman Head North

In 1899, Edward H. Harriman, a prominent financier and railroad magnate, received an unusual prescription from his doctor: a long break to recover from exhaustion. Harriman decided to journey to Alaska, intending to hunt Kodiak bears and explore the northern frontier. Some thought he might be scouting potential routes for new railroads, but whatever his motives, the expedition quickly took shape as a scientific venture. The Harriman Alaska Expedition brought together top scientists and naturalists to survey Alaska’s untouched wilderness.

Harriman Glacier, a tidewater glacier extending directly into the sea, became one of the highlights of the journey. This glacier, located in Harriman Fjord of Prince William Sound, towers roughly 300 feet above the fjord, fed by unnamed glaciers nestled in the mountains along Alaska’s rugged coast. The glacier’s imposing height and constant flow into the water create a dramatic sight, embodying Alaska’s natural beauty and power.

Nearby Whittier, a small town of just over 270 people, sits about 58 miles southeast of Anchorage. Whittier is accessible only by water or the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, North America’s second-longest highway tunnel at 13,300 feet. This combined rail and highway tunnel makes the town a unique access point to Prince William Sound and offers a gateway for adventurers seeking a close encounter with Alaska’s glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.

Serpentine Glacier

Prince William Sound Tour Only

The Serpentine Glacier lies inland, north of Harriman Fjord and northeast of Harriman Glacier. Named during the 1899 Harriman Expedition, this glacier is framed by Mount Gilbert to the north and Mount Muir to the west. The Chugach region, known for its high precipitation and mountainous terrain, contains some of Alaska’s most extensive glaciated landscapes. Serpentine Glacier and its surroundings illustrate the area’s dramatic geography, where snow and ice dominate year-round.

Several iconic names in geology and Alaskan exploration are connected to the area around Serpentine Glacier, including Harriman, Gilbert, and Muir. Mount Gilbert is named in honor of Grove Karl Gilbert, a renowned geologist. His impact is so widely recognized that craters on both the Moon and Mars also bear his name. Meanwhile, John Muir, who joined the 1899 expedition, made pivotal contributions to natural history studies in Alaska.

Muir’s first Alaskan exploration occurred before the Harriman Expedition, but in 1899, he joined the SS George W. Elder as part of Harriman’s team. His work documented the Gulf of Alaska’s rich natural environment, leaving an enduring legacy in glaciology. Muir’s research played a vital role in the expedition’s success, introducing the world to Alaska’s unique landscapes and reinforcing the importance of studying glacial regions like Serpentine Glacier.

Barry Glacier

Prince William Sound Tour Only

North of Harriman Fjord, you’ll find Barry Glacier. This glacier stretches 16 miles or 25 km, running southwest from its accumulation zone to its toe in the northeast of the fjord. The National Tsunami Warning Center has identified Barry Glacier as a Landslide and Tsunami Hazard. Owing to the current melting, a slow-motion landslide, which has been centuries in the making, is now more likely. Chunli Dai from The Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center at Ohio State University has commented, ‘We are measuring this loss of land before the tsunami occurs.’

From 2010 to 2017, researchers estimate the slope shifted about 120 meters, and climate change is quickening this process. Before 2006, the thinning rate was less than three feet or a meter per year. Now, the melting rate has surged to about 130 ft or 40 meters per year. Simulations show that a collapse would trigger a tsunami wave reaching 32 feet or nearly 10 meters. Due to this ongoing threat, the State of Alaska has placed restrictions on travel in the area.

Captain Edwin F. Glen named the glacier in 1898 after Colonel Thomas Henry Barry. Glen was a member of an expedition tasked with charting a route to the Klondike gold fields from this area.

Surprise Glacier

Prince William Sound Tour Only

Prepare to experience the breathtaking Surprise Glacier, one of the most active tidewater glaciers in Prince William Sound. Known for its dramatic calving events, Surprise Glacier regularly sheds massive blocks of ice into the Gulf, creating spectacular waves and booming sounds. Watching this natural phenomenon is an awe-inspiring sight, and our Alaska helicopter tours provide the ideal, safe vantage point to observe it. This glacier, like others in the region, was named during the historic 1899 Harriman Expedition, adding a layer of historical intrigue to its stunning scenery.

Our scenic helicopter tour offers unparalleled views of the glacier and its surroundings. Surprise Glacier sits among nearly 100 named glaciers in Prince William Sound, making it a highlight of any tour. From the unique vantage point of a private helicopter ride, you’ll have a front-row seat to the glacier’s ice-blue facade and natural displays, a truly unforgettable part of glacier sightseeing in Alaska.

Knik Glacier

Prince William Sound Tour & Knik Glacier Tour

Located in the rugged Chugach National Forest east of Anchorage, Knik Glacier spans an impressive 25 miles, making it one of Alaska’s most striking natural landmarks. Averaging five miles in width, this icy giant stretches across a space four times the size of Manhattan. Its 400-foot ice wall rivals the height of a 28-story building, offering visitors a breathtaking view of a glacial landscape rarely seen up close. As the glacier calves, massive icebergs break off and plunge into the lake below, creating a stunning visual display best experienced from above.

While Knik Glacier is accessible by foot and snowshoe in the winter, no method compares to the sweeping views provided by our glacier helicopter tours. This PWS scenic flight tour not only provides a comprehensive view of the glacier but also captures the beauty of the surrounding mountains and the dramatic ice fields that seem to stretch endlessly.

It’s no surprise that visitors consider a trip in a helicopter to this area as one of the must-see things in Alaska. A glacier adventure Alaska style is unforgettable, and with our open helicopter rides, the chance to witness Knik Glacier up close makes for a truly unforgettable experience.

The term ‘Knik’ is derived from the Inupiaq word ‘igniq’, meaning ‘fire’. To delve deeper into the wonders of the Knik Glacier, you can visit www.alaska.org.

Colony Glacier

Prince William Sound Tour & Knik Glacier Tour

South of Knik Glacier lies Colony Glacier, a stunning ice formation at an altitude of 1,037 feet. Known for its frequent calving, Colony Glacier sends massive icebergs drifting into Inner Lake George. To the east stands Mount Gilbert, towering at 9,638 feet. Named in honor of Grove Karl Gilbert, a scientist from the 1899 Harriman Expedition, this peak adds to the breathtaking landscape that draws visitors. For those exploring through our helicopter experience days, Colony Glacier offers an unforgettable encounter with Alaska’s rugged ice formations.

As you view Colony Glacier from a helicopter, you’ll notice moraines, unique ridges of debris where two ice flows meet. These moraines, composed of rocks and soil, showcase the immense natural forces that shape the glacier’s landscape. This phenomenon provides a fascinating glimpse into glacial geomorphology, best appreciated from a private helicopter ride. This spot, accessible only by air or through guided excursions, remains one of the best glacier sightseeing opportunities Alaska has to offer.

Inner Lake George

Prince William Sound Tour & Knik Glacier Tour

On a visit to Inner Lake George during our PWS glacier heli tours, you’ll witness the powerful calving of Colony Glacier as it meets the lake’s edge, sending massive icefalls crashing into the water below. These natural ice cascades, similar to waterfalls, create an awe-inspiring spectacle surrounded by vibrant green slopes and scenic views. For photographers, Lake George offers a rare chance to capture the raw beauty of the glacier and its surroundings. This area, with its pristine, unspoiled landscapes, provides an unforgettable setting for helicopter flights and offers the perfect backdrop for breathtaking images that highlight Alaska’s dramatic wilderness.

The Self Dumping Glacier

For nearly fifty years, Lake George was famous as the largest glacier-dammed lake in North America with a unique natural phenomenon. Each winter, Knik Glacier would advance and block the outlet connecting Lake George to the Knik River. As the colder months continued, the lake filled with glacial meltwater and calving ice, creating intense pressure behind the ice dam. When summer arrived, this pressure would finally cause the dam to rupture, releasing a dramatic torrent as Lake George swiftly emptied into the Knik River. This annual event was so significant that Lake George was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1967.

This phenomenon, unfortunately, has not occurred since 1967 due to the receding Knik Glacier, likely impacted by climate change. Without the glacier’s advance each winter, Lake George can no longer self-dump, marking an end to this natural spectacle. Today, this historical event remains a part of Alaska’s unique glacial heritage, and visitors can still marvel at the lake and surrounding area during our tour options in the region.

The video provided above features excerpts from AAF-10633, sourced from the Stewart’s Photo Shop collection. For further details, please visit the Alaska Film Archives directly.

Lake George Glacier

Prince William Sound Tour & Knik Glacier Tour

Nestled south of Colony Glacier and the once-dramatic, self-draining Lake George, the Lake George Glacier stands as a testament to stability in a region marked by shifting ice. Surrounded by the breathtaking Chugach Mountains and positioned at an elevation of 2,644 feet (805 meters), Lake George Glacier is separated from Colony Glacier by the towering Crown Peak, which rises to 6,000 feet (1,820 meters). Unlike many glaciers worldwide experiencing rapid retreat, Lake George Glacier has remained relatively steady. Its landlocked location shields it from many climate influences that impact other glaciers, resulting in a unique, stable terminus. This glacier’s serene, undisturbed presence makes it an essential highlight on the PWS glacier heli tours, offering an unparalleled view of Alaska’s resilient ice landscapes.

Eklutna Glacier

Prince William Sound Tour & Knik Glacier Tour

Located to the northwest of Lake George Glacier, the land-terminating Eklutna Glacier, known locally as “Idlu Bena Li’a,” plays a vital role in supplying freshwater to Eklutna Lake—the primary drinking water source for Anchorage, Alaska. This glacier spans six miles (10 km) and ascends from 1,900 feet (580 m) to 6,889 feet (2,100 m) at its highest point. With a unique dual-branch structure, its main flow travels northward, while a steeper channel emerges from the west. Seen on both our Knik Glacier helicopter tours and Prince William Sound glacier tours, Eklutna Glacier offers breathtaking views of Alaska’s remarkable glacial landscapes.

Unfortunately, Eklutna Glacier is steadily retreating due to warming temperatures, leading to a “negative mass balance”—a state where melting outpaces ice formation. This reduction threatens the water supply for Eklutna Lake, impacting nearly 300,000 Anchorage residents. As winter regeneration becomes insufficient to keep pace with annual melt, this crucial water source faces ongoing challenges in its ability to support the region.

Additionally, the Eklutna Hydroelectric Project depends on this glacier-fed lake, generating 40 megawatts of renewable energy for over 24,000 homes. This facility is a key renewable power source for southcentral Alaska, providing one of the region’s most cost-effective energy solutions. In this changing environment, the preservation of Eklutna Glacier is essential for sustaining both Anchorage’s water and power needs.

Lake Eklutna

Prince William Sound Tour & Knik Glacier Tour

Eklutna Lake is a stunning 3,520-acre (1,423 hectares) body of water nestled within the Municipality of Anchorage, Alaska. Known locally as “Idlu Bena,” this expansive lake stretches about 7 miles (11 km) in length and 1 mile (1.6 km) in width. The lake’s name, rooted in history, was coined by Russian traders in the 18th century and translates to “lake near a place with many ferns.” Eklutna Lake is a vital resource, providing Anchorage’s primary drinking water and serving as a popular recreational site for scenic helicopter flights. Surrounded by breathtaking views and rich with local flora, Eklutna Lake is an essential part of the Alaskan landscape and remains a favorite among visitors looking to experience the best of Alaska’s natural beauty.

Whiteout Glacier

Prince William Sound Tour & Knik Glacier Tour

The Whiteout Glacier, along with Whiteout Peak, holds an important place in Alaskan history for both mountaineering and military training. In 1963, the Mountaineering Club of Alaska built the Whiteout Glacier Cabin as part of the Eklutna Traverse route, offering essential shelter to climbers heading up the challenging 6,818-foot (2,078-meter) Whiteout Peak. This cabin, now known as Hans Hut, has three decades’ worth of notes and memories recorded by travelers, which have been preserved in the Alaska Digital Archive. For those interested in Alaska’s outdoor history, these entries provide an in-depth look at the experiences of past explorers and mountaineers.

From the 1950s through the mid-1970s, Whiteout Glacier also served as a training site for the U.S. military, where soldiers developed essential arctic skills in cross-country skiing, rappelling, and glacier navigation. The glacier provided an ideal environment for Cold War training, as the military prepared troops for potential engagements in northern, icy terrains. Both Whiteout Glacier and the neighboring Eklutna Glacier were integral to the preparation and training of troops for possible conflicts in harsh winter conditions, building on Arctic experiences gained in World War II.

Photography During Your Trip

A private helicopter ride to Alaska’s glaciers offers extraordinary photography opportunities, showcasing the vast beauty of one of the most glaciated regions on Earth. The Prince William Sound glacier tours allow you to soar over eight awe-inspiring glaciers, each a testament to nature’s power and beauty. These massive formations provide a dynamic backdrop, and if you’re lucky, you might witness glacial calving, where chunks of ice crash into the water—a thrilling and unforgettable sight to capture. Though calving isn’t guaranteed on every helicopter glacier tour, certain seasons make it more likely. This adventure ranks as one of the best helicopter experience days for photographers, delivering stunning views and access to incredible, remote locations that make every frame count.

For photography enthusiasts seeking the best opportunities to capture specific shots or wildlife during your tour, we recommend connecting with our Chief Pilot, Robert. As an experienced photographer himself, he possesses valuable insights and expertise that can greatly enhance your photography experience. In fact, Robert might even be your guide during the tour, offering valuable guidance and assistance to help you capture the most stunning shots. To learn more and discuss your photography interests, please feel free to reach out to us by sending a message through our contact page.

Your Prince William Sound Tour Flight

We have partnerships with community businesses in the Mat-Su Valley. Our tours can start or end at our hangar, the Mat-Su Resort dock, or the back lawn at Lake Lucille Inn, providing convenient and accessible locations for our guests. To find our hangar visit our contact page or call us for further details.

Take the Prince William Sound Tour aboard one of Heli Alaska’s R44 helicopters through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Chugach State Park. Our skilled pilots are exceptional guides, possessing extensive knowledge of the area, its wildlife, glaciers, and rich history. Whats more cloudy days offer equally breathtaking experiences compared to sunny ones. In fact, overcast days often provide the most dramatic and captivating views, showcasing the immense beauty of the surroundings.

Booking your Prince William Sound Helicopter tour

Does the Hatcher Pass Helicopter Tour sound like the right one for you? If that’s the case, booking online or over the phone is easy. Not to mention with our automated booking system, you can pick your date and number of passengers with your phone or desktop computer.

If you have any issues or questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

If you are nervous about flying for any reason, we will be happy to walk you through the process or make arrangements to make the experience better for you. Again, please feel free to get in contact using the contact page. Our pilots love our tours and think you will too. Above all, though, we understand that everybody’s needs are different. One of us will be happy to assist you wherever possible.

Do you feel the Hatcher Pass Helicopter tour is not quite what you want? If you’d like to discuss customizing your tour, call us, and we’d be happy to accommodate your needs.

Other Flightseeing Tours

Explore our other Flightseeing Tours to find your perfect helicopter adventure.

FAQ

Preparing for Flightseeing Tours

What should I wear?

Wear warm, comfortable layers for your tour. Start with a moisture-wicking base, add an insulating layer, and top it off with a waterproof jacket to handle changing conditions. Sturdy boots are essential for walking on glaciers in Alaska, and gloves, a hat, and sunglasses will keep you warm and protected. For safety and comfort, we provide gear for secure glacier landings. Whether you’re enjoying the flight or exploring the ice, this tour is one of the must do things in Alaska. If you have questions about what to pack for your glacier helicopter tour, contact us anytime!

Can I bring a camera?

Yes, bring your camera! This adventure offers incredible opportunities to capture breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and towering tidewater glaciers. Our pilots, experienced in heli flights, can guide you to the best angles for capturing the beauty of the Prince William Sound. This is one of the best glacier sightseeing experiences Alaska offers, and your photos will let you relive the adventure for years to come. If you have questions about photography during our tours, feel free to ask!

How early should I arrive?

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour. This gives you enough time to check in, go over safety instructions, and get ready for your flight. Arriving early also allows us to answer any last-minute questions about what to expect on your PWS helicopter tour or offer photography tips. Being on time ensures a smooth experience for everyone and helps us keep the schedule running efficiently. If you’re unsure about availability or need assistance with directions, feel free to contact us in advance.

What Will The Weather Be Like?

Weather in Alaska can change quickly, so it’s best to prepare for a variety of conditions during your tour. Cloudy days often enhance the dramatic views, highlighting the vivid blue ice of tidewater glaciers. Clear skies offer stunning panoramas. Regardless of the weather, our Heli Alaska pilots ensure a safe and unforgettable experience. Our glacier helicopter tours operate year-round, and every season provides a unique perspective of Alaska’s natural beauty. For advice on how to prepare or what to pack for a glacier helicopter tour, feel free to contact us.

Tour Information

How long is the tour?

The Prince William Sound glacier flights last about 1 hour and 45 minutes. This includes a 30-minute stop for a glacial landing, where you can explore the ice up close. It’s the perfect for those looking for scenic adventure. This tour is one of the must do things in Alaska.

What Wildlife could we see?

During your helicopter tour, you may see a variety of wildlife. Look for whales, sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions near the tidewater glaciers and fjords. Our glacier helicopter tours often include sightings of eagles and seabirds soaring over the gulf of Alaska and Prince William Sound. This is one of the best glacier tours for experiencing both stunning landscapes and Alaska’s rich marine life. Wildlife viewing adds to the adventure, making this a top choice for the best day trips from anchorage and one of the must do things in alaska.

Can I add an extra landing?

Yes, you can upgrade your flight to include additional landings. Adding a landing gives you the chance to step out, stretch your legs, and take in the breathtaking scenery up close. Whether you’re looking to explore the terrain or find the best photo spots, an extra stop allows for a more immersive experience. To check availability for additional landings, or if you’d like to know more about what to expect on the PWS helicopter tour, feel free to contact us.

How many people can go?

Our Hatcher Pass helicopter tour has a minimum of 2 people per flight. This makes it ideal for small groups or families looking to enjoy the scenic views together. For larger groups, we recommend contacting us to discuss tour options or to check the PWS tour availability for multiple flights. You can easily book our helicopter tours online or by calling us directly.

General Information

Why choose Heli Alaska?

Choose Heli Alaska because we deliver the best helicopter tours in Alaska with expert pilots and unmatched experiences. We focus on safety, comfort, and incredible views. Our pilots bring deep knowledge of the region, making every flight unforgettable. We’re here to help you experience the top scenic helicopter tours Alaska has to offer.

Is it Safe?

Yes, our helicopter tours are safe. At Heli Alaska, safety is our top priority. All our pilots are highly trained, and our helicopters are well-maintained to ensure a secure and comfortable flight. We follow strict safety guidelines and closely monitor the weather for optimal flight conditions. Before every flight, we brief passengers on what to expect and go over safety protocols. Book your tour today with confidence, knowing safety is always our priority.

How can I contact you?

If you have more questions, feel free to contact us directly. You can reach us through our contact page. For questions about our tours, we’re available via phone or email. If you’re ready to book a PWS helicopter ride now or inquire about flightseeing options, you can also use our easy online booking system. We’re here to help you plan your perfect adventure.

Do you offer tours year round?

Yes, we offer tours year-round. Whether you’re interested in helicopter wildlife tours in the summer or breathtaking winter views, we have flightseeing options for every season. Each season offers unique sights, from snow-covered peaks to lush green valleys. To explore our available tours, you can easily book online. Contact us for details on seasonal availability and to schedule a helicopter flight that suits your travel plans.

How To Find Us

Heli Alaska, Inc. – Hanger #4, 4130 West Aviation Ave. 99629