Bear Glacier Helicopter Tour with Landing — Seward Glacier Flight & Beach Landing
Hover above Resurrection Bay, land beside Bear Glacier, and step onto a volcanic-sand beach strewn with blue ice. This 60-minute helicopter tour from Seward delivers jaw-dropping aerial views and a guided shoreline walk for an up-close glacier experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for rotor spray
Wear a windproof outer layer and insulating mid-layer—rotor wash and lagoon spray make temperatures feel colder than forecasted.
Mind the weight rules
Operators require accurate passenger weight for safe load calculations—provide truthful measurements when booking.
Protect your gear
Use a wrist strap for cameras and zip-close pockets for phones—The landing beach is wet, rocky, and can be slippery.
Arrive early to check in
Follow the operator’s directions to the Seward check-in point and allow time for a preflight briefing and weight verification.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Exit Glacier trail (driveable access to Kenai Fjords’ glacial edge)
- •Alaska SeaLife Center and Seward waterfront boardwalk—great pre/post-tour stops
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Sea otter
Conservation Note
Operators follow strict landing and wildlife-distance protocols; visitors should pack out all waste and avoid walking on fragile ice or tidal vegetation to minimize impact.
Bear Glacier and the surrounding fjords were sculpted by the Harding Icefield; indigenous Sugpiaq communities and later Russian and American settlers have long histories on the Kenai Peninsula.
Photographer's Notes
- • Aerial approach over Resurrection Bay
- • Hover above Bear Glacier crevasses
- • Beach at Bear Glacier Lagoon during landing
What to Bring
Windproof insulated jacketEssential
Keeps you warm against rotor-driven wind and cold air near the glacier.
Waterproof shellEssential
Protects from spray and sudden coastal showers during the lagoon landing.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Provides traction on wet cobbles and glacial sand at the landing site.
Telephoto lens or zoom camera
Captures wildlife and distant crevasses from the helicopter without crowding the view.
Common Questions
How long is the flight and landing portion?
Total time is about 60 minutes from takeoff to return; the beach landing and guided walk typically last 10–20 minutes depending on conditions.
Are children and infants allowed?
Yes—infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the flight; check age and seating policies with the operator when booking.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are cancelled for unsafe weather and you’ll be offered a full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours in advance; operators prioritize safety and may reschedule when possible.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The operator lists wheelchair accessibility—contact them ahead of time to confirm specific assistance and transfer requirements.
Can you walk onto the glacier?
No technical glacier travel is included; landings occur on the beach at the glacier lagoon with a short guided shoreline walk—no crampons or roped travel across the ice.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No—wildlife like sea otters, seals, moose, and eagles are commonly seen but never guaranteed; the aerial perspective increases chances of sightings.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—able to board a helicopter and walk short uneven beach terrain for 10–20 minutes.
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