Grand View Helicopter Tour Over Kenai Fjords & Harding Icefield
A one-hour helicopter circuit from Seward that threads Resurrection Bay, Bear Glacier and the Harding Icefield. Expect intimate glacier views, wildlife scanning, and pilot-led routing that adapts to weather and guest preference.
The Experience
Before You Go
Weight limits are enforced
There is a 290 lb limit per seat and an overall group weight threshold—honest weights are required at booking to ensure you fly.
Layer up for cold rotor blast
Even in summer, bring a warm midlayer and windproof outer—altitude and open doors make the air feel much colder.
Bring a compact telephoto
A 70–200mm equivalent lets you capture bears, whales and crevassed ice without swapping lenses midflight.
Book morning departures
Early flights often have smoother air and better visibility; afternoons can bring low clouds and turbulence.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fly the shoreline of Lowell Point for dramatic rocky reefs and quiet coves rarely seen from boats
- •Ask for extra time over Bear Glacier lagoon to watch the color and movement of floating bergs when conditions allow
Wildlife
- •brown bear
- •humpback whale
Conservation Note
Kenai Fjords National Park protects tidewater glaciers and marine ecosystems—visitors should minimize disturbance to wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles when onshore.
Seward served as a Russian-American settlement and later became a key port for Alaska’s fishing industry; the Kenai coast has long supported indigenous Dena’ina and Sugpiaq communities.
Photographer's Notes
- • Over Bear Glacier lagoon for berg detail
- • Down Resurrection Bay for fjord-scale shots
- • Above Harding Icefield for wide, sweeping panoramas
What to Bring
Warm insulating layerEssential
Keeps you comfortable against wind chill created by rotor wash.
Windproof shell or parkaEssential
Blocks cold gusts and light precipitation while boarding and during flight.
Binoculars (compact)
Helps spot distant whales, bears and mountain goats from altitude.
Camera with vibration strap
A fast shutter and secure strap reduce motion blur and protect gear in a small cabin.
Common Questions
What is the flight duration?
The standard Grand View Tour is a fixed 60-minute helicopter flight.
Are there weight restrictions?
Yes—290 lb per seat and a combined group guideline around 530 lb; contact the operator if your party exceeds these limits.
Will we see glaciers and wildlife?
Yes—routes typically include Bear Glacier, parts of Kenai Fjords National Park and the Harding Icefield, with chances to spot whales, bears and mountain goats depending on season and weather.
Is the tour suitable for infants?
Infants under 24 months are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap; mention ages at booking.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather-dependent—if conditions prevent safe operation you’ll be offered a refund or rebooking per the operator’s cancellation policy.
How many people per helicopter?
Each helicopter usually seats up to three guests; seating is assigned based on weight and balance for safety.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; must be able to climb into and out of a low helicopter cabin.
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