Often proclaimed the highlight of an Alaska vacation, this adventure tour combines the thrill of a helicopter flight with a true backcountry hike in one remarkable experience. The trip departs from the tour operator's Knik River Valley Base one hour north of Anchorage. Before climbing into the waiting helo, the pilot gives the group a safety briefing, and the hiking guide runs a quick gear check. Diligence done, it's off to the backcountry.
Set foot where no other person has been.
First-time flyers are usually surprised by the smoothness of helicopter flight. The pilot deftly flies up ridgelines, past waterfalls, and low over mountain meadows on the way to the day's remote landing zone. The pilot and guide also provide narration, pointing out outlying landmarks and nearby wildlife.
With so much to take in, the flight flies by. Quickly exiting the helicopter after touchdown, the group watches as it takes off and descends into the distance. In every direction, there's something amazing to see: Glaciers spilling over mountain faces, carved valleys, hidden lakes, and one massive peak after another. From here, the hiking guide picks a route based on the ambitions and fitness of their group. Sometimes it is a strolling ridge walk, other times a climb to even higher vistas. No matter the path, in the expansive Chugach Mountains it is possible to set foot where no other person has ever been. The memorable trip concludes after about four hours, with a return flight to the Knik River Valley Base.
The Knik Heli-Hiking Adventure takes no more than six guests per guide (typically two to four) to ensure a safe and personal experience. Helicopter flight time averages 20 minutes. Weather in the Chugach Mountains can change quickly, so guests should prepare to be flexible as hiking destinations change to suit the conditions. Lunch is included in this excursion.
Proper gear is critical for comfort and safety in remote Alaskan environments. Wear synthetic hiking pants, top, and hiking boots. Guests should bring rain gear, warm layers, fleece or down jacket, hat, gloves, and water. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and personal medications are highly recommended. Don't forget a camera and, most importantly, a sense of adventure.
Guides tailor the hiking route to the interests and skills of the guests. Moderate hiking ability is recommended. To calculate accurate weight and balance for the aircraft, each passenger must provide their weight when making a reservation.
The tour departs from the operator's Knik River Valley Base at the Alaska Glacier Lodge. There is free parking at the lodge for self-drive guests.
Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.
Child rates apply to children under the age of 12. Infants under the age of 2 may travel for free but must sit on an adult's lap.
| Dates | Adult | Child | Infant | Comfort Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5/15/23 (M) to 9/30/23 (Sa)5/15/23 (M) to 9/30/23 (Sa) | Adult: $659.00 | Child: $609.00 | Infant: $0.00 | Comfort Class: $809.00 |
| The rates above do not include taxes/fees of 3% and are subject to change without notice. | ||||
Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.
| Depart | Location |
|---|---|
| Depart: 8:00 AM | Location: Alaska Glacier Lodge |
| Depart | Location |
|---|---|
| Depart: 12:30 PM | Location: Alaska Glacier Lodge |
Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.
"Just a note to thank you and all the people associated with Alaska Tour & Travel for arranging a marvelous visit to your great state. All arrangements were carried out efficiently and with very friendly staff. So again, many, many thanks."
~Craig from Canada~
