Juneau Shore Excursions: Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience

Traveling to Juneau offers a chance to see some of Alaska’s most breathtaking scenery—glaciers, rugged mountains, and the wilderness that truly feels untouched. This specific tour, combining a helicopter flight over the icefield with an exhilarating dogsledding experience, promises to deliver a rare peek into Alaska’s wild side. With a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 from over 100 reviews, it’s a popular choice for cruise passengers craving a full-throttle adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the scenic helicopter flight over the Juneau Icefield is a highlight, offering sweeping views of glaciers and mountain peaks that are hard to match. Second, the dog sledding on Herbert Glacier provides an authentic, up-close encounter with Alaska’s sled dogs—and the thrill of being pulled across snow by energetic huskies. Third, the small-group setting ensures a more intimate experience, with guides who genuinely seem passionate about sharing their knowledge.

That said, the price of about $705 per person is a notable investment, especially for families or travelers on a tighter budget. It’s worth considering whether the value of the unique views and hands-on activities align with your budget. Also, the activity is weather-dependent, meaning a cancellation due to poor conditions is always a possibility. This tour is best suited for those who are comfortable with heights, cold weather, and the occasional adventure risk.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, high-impact Alaskan experience with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and memorable moments, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Unique combination of helicopter flight and dogsledding offers diverse ways to experience Alaska’s wilderness.
• Small-group tours mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds—ideal for intimate experiences.
• Weather-dependent activity, so flexibility is important if conditions are poor.
• Hassle-free transportation options, including pick-up services, make logistics easier for cruise visitors.
• Balance of adventure and comfort, with guides and guides’ safety measures highly praised.
• Viewpoints from above and on the ground provide a comprehensive perspective on glaciers and mountain landscapes.

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a pick-up at various locations in Juneau, making it straightforward whether you’re arriving via cruise ship or hotel. Transport is arranged to Coastal Helicopters’ base, where you’ll start with a briefing and safety instructions. This part is crucial since helicopter flights are all about safety, but the reviews suggest the pilots, such as Sam, are experienced and full of local knowledge, which enhances the overall experience.

First stop: the helicopter flight over the Herbert Glacier. With around 25 to 30 minutes of flight time, you’ll soar above a vast expanse of ice and rugged terrain. Guests describe the views as “incredible” and “jaw-droppingly beautiful,” especially on clear days, with one reviewer mentioning the “beautiful weather” made the experience even more spectacular. The flight offers a bird’s-eye perspective of glaciers that stretch as far as the eye can see, with some noting it’s unlike anything they’ve seen before.

Landing at the Glacier Camp

After the aerial tour, the helicopter lands at a remote glacier camp—a rare chance to step directly onto an ancient snowfield. Here, the real fun begins: the dog sledding. Reviewers consistently rave about the enthusiasm and knowledge of the dog musher guides. One mentions that the musher was full of information about the glacier and the dogs’ personalities, making the experience both fun and educational.

Dogsledding on Herbert Glacier

You have the choice to ride the runners or relax on the sled, which adds flexibility for different comfort levels. Expect to be pulled across snowfields by a team of energetic Huskies, who are clearly well cared for and loved by their handlers. Many guests note that the dogs are happy and eager to work, with one reviewer describing the mushers as passionate and genuinely caring about their dogs. The scenery around the camp—mountains, snow, and ice—is breathtaking, making it a picture-perfect moment you won’t forget.

The Return Helicopter Flight

On the way back to the heliport, you’ll fly over the stunning Juneau Icefield, giving you a second chance to gaze down at glaciers and rugged mountains from above. The calm, stable flight offers plenty of photo opportunities, with travelers mentioning the clear blue skies (when luck is on your side) make for especially photogenic views.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Most reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and pilots; guests appreciate guides like Sam, who bring a mix of professionalism, information, and genuine passion for the environment. The stunning scenery from both the air and on the ground is consistently praised—reviewers describe the views as “breathtaking,” “unforgettable,” and “something everyone should see once in their life.”

The dog sledding experience appears to be a highlight for many, with visitors mentioning how fun, authentic, and close-up it feels. Not only do you get to see the dogs in action, but many say they loved learning about the dogs’ personalities and the musher’s stories. This personal touch adds a lot of value to the experience.

The small group size (max 12 travelers) is appreciated, offering a more relaxed and tailored atmosphere. Several reviewers note that this kept the experience feeling exclusive and less rushed, allowing for plenty of photo ops and interaction.

Practical Considerations

Pricing at $705.65 per person reflects the all-inclusive nature—round-trip helicopter flights, the dogsledding experience, transportation, boots, raincoats, and the guide’s expertise. Many reviewers feel the cost is justified given the uniqueness of the experience and the quality of the scenery and guides. However, it is a significant expense, so it’s best suited for travelers who prioritize authentic adventure and stunning natural beauty.

Weather is a critical factor. The tour’s success hinges on clear skies and stable conditions. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative time or a full refund, but this unpredictability might be a downside for those on tight schedules.

Transportation is streamlined, with pickups in Juneau, and shuttles operate an hour before your flight to the glacier. This makes it simple for cruise ship passengers to fit the tour into their schedule without extra fuss.

Gear and clothing are provided if needed, including raincoats and boots, but dressing warmly in layers is advised. The outdoor nature of the tour means you’ll want to be prepared for cold, wind, and possibly rain.

Group size is limited to 12, which enhances the experience’s intimacy but also means you should book well in advance (average booking is 37 days ahead).

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re craving a blend of aerial views, glacier exploration, and dog sledding, this tour is a superb choice. It’s especially suited for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Alaska.

Travelers with a sense of curiosity about wildlife and remote landscapes will love the opportunity to see glaciers from above and on the ground, with knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience. It also appeals to those who value small-group tours for a more personal touch and don’t mind the cost for a truly unique adventure.

However, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed, indoor experience—given the outdoor, physically active nature of dogsledding and the helicopter flight.

The Sum Up

This Juneau helicopter and dogsledding adventure offers a rare chance to see Alaska’s glaciers from the sky and on the snow—a true bucket-list experience. The combination of breathtaking views, energetic huskies, and expert guides makes it a memorable day that many travelers describe as “once in a lifetime.”

While the price is steep, the value is reflected in the quality of the scenery, the authenticity of the activities, and the personalized attention in a small-group setting. It’s perfect for those who want a full-day adventure that mixes thrill, beauty, and a touch of wilderness.

If you’re dreaming of Alaska’s rugged landscapes and wild encounters, and are comfortable with the weather and cost considerations, this tour is an excellent way to make your visit truly unforgettable.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation, the helicopter flight, and the dogsledding experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers round-trip helicopter flights, a dogsledding experience, transportation to and from facilities, a pilot, a dog musher guide, and provided gear like boots and raincoats.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, each passenger’s total weight must not exceed 500 lbs. Passengers are weighed at the facility, so accurate reporting is necessary for safety and scheduling.

Can I choose to sit on the sled or ride the runners?
Yes, during dogsledding, you can opt to ride the sled or sit comfortably, giving you some flexibility based on your comfort level.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the tour’s physical and outdoor nature suggests it’s best suited for older kids and adults. Always check with the provider if traveling with young children.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, boots and raincoats are provided if needed, but dressing warmly in layers is recommended.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from the facilities is included, with pickups available at multiple locations in Juneau.

Can I book this tour if I have mobility issues?
It’s recommended to contact the provider directly, as they aim to make tours accessible and comfortable for all participants.

This adventure in Juneau combines the thrill of flight with the charm of working dogs and majestic glaciers, making it a top pick for those eager to experience Alaska’s wild beauty firsthand.