Bear Glacier Helicopter Tour from Seward — 45-Minute Flight Over Kenai Fjords
Lift off from Seward for a 45-minute helicopter flight that crosses Resurrection Bay and drops you into the immediate presence of Bear and Aialik Glaciers. This aerial tour pairs dramatic fjord scenery with a short glacier landing—perfect for travelers short on time but hungry for big, Alaskan views.
The Experience
Before You Go
Check weight limits before booking
There is a 290 lb per-seat limit and an overall aircraft weight limit; call the operator if your group approaches those numbers to avoid last-minute cancellations.
Dress in layers and windproof outerwear
Temperatures near the glacier are much colder than town—windproof jackets, hats, and gloves keep you comfortable during the landing and photo stops.
Bring a fast, charged camera and strap
Wide-angle lenses show scale of glaciers while a mid-telephoto helps isolate wildlife; secure cameras with straps to prevent drops in rotor wash.
Plan for weather-dependent scheduling
Flights can be canceled due to low clouds or high winds—book early in your trip so you can rebook on a clearer day if needed.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fly the shoreline of Resurrection Bay early for prime mountain goat sightings on the cliffs
- •Ask the pilot about view adjustments—routes often vary and experienced pilots can show lesser-seen ice chutes or waterfalls
Wildlife
- •Mountain goat
- •Harbor seal
Conservation Note
Kenai Fjords is a protected national park and operators emphasize low-impact landings; avoid disturbing wildlife and follow pilots’ safety zones to reduce erosion and habitat disruption.
Seward and the surrounding Kenai Peninsula lie on ancestral lands of the Alutiiq (Sugpiaq) and Dena'ina peoples; later, the town became a key port for Alaska’s development and gateway for fjord exploration.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along Resurrection Bay en route—wide scenes of coastal cliffs
- • The glacier landing—scale shots with icebergs and moraine
- • From the helicopter door/window with a wide lens for sweeping fjord panoramas
What to Bring
Windproof insulated jacketEssential
Blocks glacier wind on the landing and keeps you warm in cold, damp conditions.
Binoculars or zoom lensEssential
Helps spot mountain goats, seals, and distant ice features from the air.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Needed for the short walk on uneven moraine or snow near the landing zone.
Spare batteries / power bank
Cold drains batteries fast—carry extras for your camera and phone.
Common Questions
How long is the flight and total experience?
The helicopter is in the air for approximately 45 minutes; allow about 1–2 hours total for check-in, safety briefing, flight, and return to base.
Are there weight restrictions?
Yes—there is a 290 lb per-seat limit and an overall aircraft weight limit; please provide accurate weights at booking and call the operator if your group is near the cap.
Will we land on the glacier?
Yes—the tour includes a brief landing near the glacier terminus for photos and an up-close look, but guests must follow the pilot’s safety instructions and keep a safe distance from the ice front.
Is this suitable for children or infants?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap and the operator has policies about minimum passenger counts for departures.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather-dependent; the tour operator will cancel in poor conditions and offers refunds for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance or rebook options when possible.
Can I be picked up from my hotel or cruise ship?
The operator provides local pickups within Seward and can arrange shuttle service from hotels and the port—confirm your pickup point when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1–2 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; ability to climb in/out of a low helicopter step and stand on uneven glacier moraine recommended
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