30-Minute Helicopter Flightseeing Over the Chugach: Girdwood Glacier Tour
In a half-hour from Girdwood Airport you’ll climb into the Chugach’s glacier country—sweeping views of ice fields, jagged peaks, and possible wildlife sightings compress into a cinematic flight. This short helicopter tour is ideal for travelers who want maximum landscape impact with minimal time commitment.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book shuttle pickup in advance
Shuttle transfers from Anchorage and Girdwood are included but must be scheduled—call ahead to confirm pickup time and location.
Dress in layers with wind protection
Temperatures fall quickly above the valley; a windproof outer layer and hat make the brief flight much more comfortable.
Bring a fast camera and small binoculars
A fast shutter helps counter rotor vibration; compact binoculars catch distant wildlife on ridgelines.
Expect weather cancellations
Flights are weather-dependent—if conditions force a cancelation you’ll be offered a refund or alternate date, so plan flexible travel arrangements.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for the thin, inland blue meltwater lakes that sit at glacier termini—visible only from the air.
- •Ask the pilot to point out old moraine ridgelines that reveal former glacier extents.
Wildlife
- •Dall sheep
- •Moose
Conservation Note
Glacier retreat is visible in this region; operators encourage staying on marked areas and supporting local waste-reduction practices to minimize visitor impact.
The Chugach Mountains and coastal valleys were long-used by Ahtna and Dena’ina peoples; modern Girdwood grew as a railway and later a ski community serving access to these wild landscapes.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along the glacier tongues where crevasse patterns are visible from oblique angles
- • Over the braided meltwater rivers for dynamic lines
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks rotor-driven wind and keeps you warm during the flight.
Compact camera or smartphone with fast shutterEssential
Captures high-speed scenes through the helicopter window with minimal blur.
Binoculars
Useful for spotting Dall sheep or bears on distant slopes.
Close-toed shoesEssential
Stable footwear makes boarding and disembarking the helicopter safer and easier.
Common Questions
How long is the flight?
The scheduled airtime is 30 minutes with a brief safety talk at the hangar; plan for additional time for pickup and return shuttle travel.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are subject to cancellation for adverse weather; operators offer a full refund or rebooking to another date when this occurs.
Is there a weight limit or passenger restrictions?
Yes—there is a weight limit of 290 pounds per guest; children must be accompanied by an adult and infants may sit on a lap.
Are shuttles included from Anchorage?
Yes—round-trip shared shuttle service from Anchorage and Girdwood hotels is included but you must call to schedule your pickup time.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The hangar and facilities are wheelchair accessible, but boarding the helicopter requires coordination—contact the operator ahead of time for assistance.
Can I take photos and video during the flight?
Yes—photography is allowed; use a fast shutter speed and brace your camera against the window for sharper images.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
30 minutes
Location
Girdwood, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required but boarding may require balance and stepping into the helicopter.
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