Juneau Shore Excursions: Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience

Juneau shore excursions offer an exhilarating combination of helicopter tours and dogsledding experiences. This unique adventure takes visitors on a scenic flight over glaciers, followed by an authentic dogsledding experience on pristine snow fields. Participants can interact with Alaskan huskies, learn about mushing culture, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Alaskan wilderness. These excursions typically last 3-3.5 hours and are available during the summer cruise season, providing an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

What Does a Typical Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience Include?

A typical Juneau helicopter tour and dogsledding experience includes:

  1. Pickup from cruise ship dock or downtown Juneau
  2. Safety briefing at the heliport
  3. Scenic helicopter flight to a glacier (usually Herbert, Mendenhall, or Norris)
  4. Dogsledding experience on the glacier
  5. Interaction with Alaskan huskies and mushers
  6. Return helicopter flight
  7. Transportation back to the starting point

The entire excursion usually lasts about 3 hours, with approximately 30 minutes of flight time and 1 hour on the glacier for dogsledding.

How Much Does a Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience Cost?

juneau shore excursions juneau helicopter tour & dogsledding experience

The cost of a Juneau helicopter tour and dogsledding experience can vary depending on the specific package and operator. Here’s a general price range:

  • Standard tour: $688 – $839 per person
  • Extended tour with extra landing: $814 – $900 per person

Factors that can affect pricing include:

  • Peak season (May to September) vs. off-peak season
  • Group size
  • Additional features (e.g., extra glacier landing)
  • Booking through cruise lines vs. independent operators

It’s important to note that prices may change, and it’s best to check with tour operators for the most current rates.

What Should I Wear for a Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience?

Proper attire is crucial for comfort and safety during your Juneau helicopter tour and dogsledding experience. Here’s a recommended packing list:

  1. Warm, layered clothing
  2. Waterproof jacket
  3. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
  4. Sunglasses
  5. Gloves
  6. Hat or beanie
  7. Camera (with a strap)

Most tour operators provide glacier boots and any necessary safety equipment. It’s best to dress in layers, as temperatures on the glacier can be significantly cooler than in Juneau.

Are There Age or Physical Restrictions for the Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience?

While the Juneau helicopter tour and dogsledding experience is generally accessible to most visitors, there are some considerations:

  • Age: No minimum age requirement, but children under 24 months typically fly free as lap children
  • Weight: There may be weight restrictions for safety reasons (usually around 250-280 lbs)
  • Mobility: Participants should be able to climb into and out of a helicopter and walk on uneven snow surfaces
  • Pregnancy: Most operators do not recommend the tour for pregnant women in their third trimester

It’s always best to check with the specific tour operator for their exact requirements and restrictions.

What Is the Best Time of Year for a Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience?

The best time for a Juneau helicopter tour and dogsledding experience is during the summer cruise season, typically from May to September. Here’s why:

  1. Weather conditions are generally more favorable
  2. Longer daylight hours provide better visibility
  3. Cruise ships are operating, making shore excursions easily accessible
  4. Dogsledding camps are set up on the glaciers during this time
Month Average Temperature (°F) Daylight Hours Precipitation (inches)
May 46-56 17 3.9
June 52-62 18 3.4
July 56-65 18 4.6
August 55-64 16 5.4
September 49-57 14 7.9

While summer offers the best conditions, it’s also the busiest season. Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.

How Can I Book a Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience?

Booking a Juneau helicopter tour and dogsledding experience can be done through several channels:

  1. Cruise line shore excursions
  2. Independent tour operators
  3. Travel agencies specializing in Alaska tours
  4. Online booking platforms

When booking, consider the following:

  • Read reviews from previous participants
  • Compare prices and inclusions across different operators
  • Check cancellation policies and weather guarantees
  • Ensure the tour fits within your cruise ship’s port schedule

It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak season, as these popular excursions can fill up quickly.

What Makes the Juneau Helicopter Tour & Dogsledding Experience Unique?

The Juneau helicopter tour and dogsledding experience stands out for several reasons:

  1. Combination of two iconic Alaskan activities
  2. Access to remote glaciers not reachable by road
  3. Interaction with professional mushers and Alaskan huskies
  4. Breathtaking aerial views of the Juneau Icefield
  5. Opportunity to learn about Alaskan culture and dogsledding history
  6. Chance to experience ‘summer sledding’ on a snow-covered glacier

This excursion offers a truly unique perspective on Alaska’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-do for many visitors to Juneau.

What Should I Expect During the Helicopter Flight?

The helicopter flight portion of the Juneau tour and dogsledding experience is an adventure in itself. Here’s what to expect:

  1. Safety briefing before takeoff
  2. Headsets for communication with the pilot and other passengers
  3. Panoramic views of the Juneau Icefield, surrounding mountains, and glaciers
  4. Approximately 15-20 minutes of flight time each way
  5. Potential wildlife sightings (mountain goats, bears, etc.)
  6. Narration from the pilot about the landscape and local geography
  7. Smooth landing on the glacier

Most helicopters used for these tours seat 6 passengers, ensuring everyone gets a good view. Window seats are typically assigned based on weight distribution for safety.

How Does the Dogsledding Experience Work on a Glacier?

The dogsledding portion of the Juneau tour takes place on a snow-covered glacier. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Meet the musher and dog team
  2. Brief introduction to dogsledding and safety instructions
  3. Opportunity to help harness the dogs (if desired)
  4. Ride on the sled for about 30 minutes
  5. Chance to ‘mush’ the team yourself (under supervision)
  6. Time to interact with the dogs and take photos
  7. Learn about the care and training of sled dogs

The dogs are typically Alaskan Huskies, bred for their endurance and friendly temperament. The mushers are experienced professionals who can share fascinating stories about the sport of dogsledding and life in Alaska.

In conclusion, the Juneau shore excursion combining a helicopter tour and dogsledding experience offers a thrilling and unique way to explore Alaska’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. With proper planning and preparation, this adventure can be the highlight of any Alaskan cruise or visit to Juneau.

References:
1. Juneau Helicopter & Dogsled Glacier Excursion
2. 7 Best Juneau Dog Sledding Tours | Alaska Shore Excursions
3. Juneau Helicopter & Dogsled Glacier Excursion – Alaska Shore Tours

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