Knik Glacier Helicopter & Polar Plunge Tour

This experience is all about getting close to Alaska and feeling it in a very direct way. It begins with a helicopter flight that lifts you out of the valley and carries you over rivers, rugged mountains, and vast fields of ice. From the moment you take off, the scenery unfolds quickly, leaving a strong impression.

After a short flight, you land right on Knik Glacier. Stepping onto the ice, the surroundings feel instantly quieter and more expansive. With your guide, you’ll walk a short distance across the glacier, carefully navigating uneven ice and passing striking blue meltwater pools. The landscape is untouched and natural, exactly as it exists.

Next comes the polar dip. You’ll step into glacier-fed water that is intensely cold, with no way to soften the sensation. The immersion is brief, but the impact lingers. Most guests feel an immediate surge of energy, followed by a sharp, clear-headed feeling that only icy water can bring.

You'll move from the water to enjoy a wood-fired sauna built on glacial ice, and then take it all in, wrapped in thick robes and towels, and sipping on hot drinks. Steam rises as you stand on the ice and take it all in. This is usually when people slow down, take photos, and really appreciate where they are.  The experience pairs dramatic flightseeing over glaciers and mountains with contrast therapy—heat, cold, and wild scenery—guided by experienced local staff.

From beginning to end, the experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including flight time and time spent on the glacier. It’s a simple, well-paced adventure that offers a rare and unforgettable way to experience Alaska’s glacial landscape.