Grand View Helicopter Tour: 60-Min Scenic Flight Over Kenai Fjords & Harding Icefield
In a single hour the Grand View helicopter tour compresses Alaska’s wild scale—fjords, tidewater glaciers, and the Harding Icefield—into a tight, narrated flight out of Seward. Expect iceberg lagoons, possible wildlife sightings, and weather-dependent routing guided by FAA-certified pilots.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Weight & Balance
Plan to be at the office 30 minutes before departure to complete weight checks and paperwork — flights can’t operate without proper load calculations.
Dress in Layers and Windproof Shell
Temperatures drop with altitude and rotor wash delivers a chill; a warm base layer plus windproof outer layer keeps you comfortable.
Bring Stabilized Optics
A small pair of binoculars or a mid-telephoto zoom (70–200mm equivalent) improves wildlife and glacier detail shots without crowding the cabin.
Mind Motion Sickness
If you’re prone to airsickness, take an antiemetic beforehand and focus on the horizon; avoid heavy meals immediately before flying.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Bear Glacier lagoon viewed at low altitude for iceberg details
- •Aerial angles of the Chugach foothills east of Resurrection Bay for late-light shadows
Wildlife
- •Mountain goat
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Kenai Fjords and the surrounding national forest are managed to protect glacier-fed ecosystems and marine life — follow operator guidance to minimize disturbance to wildlife and fragile shoreline habitats.
The Seward area has long been a travel and subsistence corridor for Dena'ina and Alutiiq peoples; modern Seward grew as a harbor and rail terminus in the early 20th century.
Photographer's Notes
- • Over Resurrection Bay for fjord perspective
- • Low pass above Bear Glacier to capture iceberg lagoons
- • Higher approach to frame Harding Icefield’s skyline
What to Bring
Windproof JacketEssential
Blocks rotor-driven chill and keeps you comfortable during the flight
Binoculars or Mid-Telephoto Lens
Helps spot wildlife and captures glacier detail without crowding the small cabin
Noise-Reducing Ear ProtectionEssential
Reduces rotor noise and makes pilot narration easier to hear
Camera with Fast Shutter
Freezes action—calving ice and quick wildlife sightings—under variable light
Common Questions
Are there weight restrictions for this tour?
Yes. FAA and operator limits apply: 290 lb per seat and group weight limits affect loading; disclose accurate weights at booking to avoid issues.
Can infants and children fly?
Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap; carriers aren’t used and children must be accompanied by an adult.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather-dependent; tours cancel in inclement conditions with full refund if canceled at least 24 hours prior or due to weather.
Will we see glaciers and wildlife on every flight?
Routes change with weather and pilot discretion; while glaciers and wildlife are commonly seen, sightings (bears, whales, goats) are not guaranteed.
How many people fit in each helicopter?
Each helicopter seats up to three guests plus a pilot; seating is assigned for weight and balance safety.
Can we request specific sights to prioritize?
Yes. Pilots will accommodate guest preferences when safe and feasible—mention priorities during pre-flight briefing.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
No special fitness required — suitable for most travelers who can board a small helicopter
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