If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure that will take your breath away, look no further than Alaska helicopter tours.
Alaska’s rugged terrain can only be accessed by foot, by boat, or by air, and helicopter tours offer an unparalleled experience of the state’s stunning natural beauty. From towering mountains to massive glaciers, here are some of the top destinations for helicopter tours in Alaska.
Anchorage Area
Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and the gateway to the state’s wilderness. It’s a great place to start your Alaska helicopter tour adventure, with a number of helicopter tour companies based in or near the city. The nearby Chugach Mountains provide stunning views and plenty of opportunities for adventure.
The Anchorage area also offers some unique helicopter tour options, including bear viewing tours and even heli-skiing tours during the winter months.
Denali National Park
Denali National Park is home to North America’s highest peak, Denali (formerly known as Mt. McKinley), and offers breathtaking views of the Alaska Range. Helicopter tours over the park provide a unique perspective of the park’s vast wilderness, with views of glaciers, jagged peaks, and wildlife such as grizzly bears, wolves, and caribou.
Juneau
Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, is located in the heart of the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. Helicopter tours from Juneau offer a variety of experiences, from glacier tours to whale watching tours. The Mendenhall Glacier, just outside of Juneau, is a popular destination for helicopter tours, offering a stunning display of blue ice and dramatic glacial formations.
Ketchikan
Ketchikan, located in Southeast Alaska, is known as the "Salmon Capital of the World" and is surrounded by pristine wilderness, including Misty Fiords National Monument. Helicopter tours from Ketchikan provide a unique perspective of the area’s stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls, glaciers, and fjords.
Prince William Sound
Prince William Sound, located east of Anchorage, is home to a unique ecosystem of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife. Helicopter tours over the sound offer views of massive glaciers calving into the water and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as sea otters, seals, and whales.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, located in south-central Alaska, is the largest national park in the United States, with towering peaks and massive glaciers. Helicopter tours over the park provide stunning views of the area’s vast wilderness, including the Kennicott Glacier and nearby abandoned copper mining town of Kennicott.
Safety Tips
Before embarking on a helicopter tour in Alaska, it is important to be prepared and stay safe. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Dress appropriately for the weather, including warm layers and waterproof clothing
- Listen to all safety instructions and follow the pilot’s directions
- Keep your seatbelt fastened at all times
- Be aware of the helicopter’s blades and avoid walking near them
- Be mindful of the weight restrictions and luggage limitations for the helicopter
Conclusion
Alaska helicopter tours offer an unparalleled adventure that will take your breath away. From towering mountains to massive glaciers, Alaska’s stunning natural beauty is best experienced from the air. Whether you’re exploring Denali National Park or witnessing the majesty of Prince William Sound, a helicopter tour is the perfect way to experience Alaska’s rugged wilderness.