Alpine Air Alaska - Girdwood Glacier Dogsledding
To ratchet up the adventure factor, try your hand at dogsledding on a glacier! Operated alongside Seavey’s Ididaride Sled Dog Tours, this trip departs from Girdwood and takes you over the majestic Chugach Mountains and onto the giant snowfield Punch Bowl Glacier. If you're staying in Anchorage you can book a shuttle ride along with your excursion.
Lift off for the helicopter ride to the glacier. And when the chopper lands, the sled dogs know exactly what that means—it’s time to run!
You’ll feel their excitement as they start jumping and barking. You’ll meet the dog team, learn how they’re trained, and then stand on the sled runners and "drive" the dogs yourself. Or simply sit in the sled and check out the amazing hanging glaciers that surround you. Everyone who wants will have the opportunity to drive. You’ll travel in a 2- to 3-kilometer loop, either at a gentle trot or a healthy clip, depending on snow conditions and the kind of experience you want.
It can be cool up on the glacier, so dress in layers (if you need some extra clothing, Alpine Air can provide it). Tours are suitable for all ages and all travelers—they’re even handicap-accessible. And they go in all conditions, even rain. Also, don’t forget your camera or GoPro!
About Alpine Air Alaska
Alpine Air Alaska, started in Girdwood by Keith Essex in 1991, has been offering helicopter flight-seeing longer than anyone in Southcentral Alaska. As the first to bring Robinson helicopters to Alaska, they have set the standard for aerial tours in the region. The company began with fixed-wing airplanes flying Alaskans to the backcountry, but helicopters offered more flexibility with weather, leading to the switch. Today, Alpine Air Alaska specializes in exclusive scenic flightseeing routes along the stunning Prince William Sound, awe-inspiring glacier landings, and exhilarating glacier dog sledding.
What to Bring
- Dress in layers. On the glacier, temperatures range from chilly to sweltering.
- Sunglasses and camera.
- You'll be provided with a windbreaker and wind pants, along with warm overboots for your shoes and even sunglasses if you forget yours.
Getting There
Girdwood, AK 99587
Winter Shuttle from Anchorage: Available November - March on Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays. Book at check-out.
Summer Shuttle from Anchorage: Available daily April - October.
Driving From Anchorage: Head south out of Anchorage on the Seward Highway. Turn left onto Alyeska Highway and follow it into Girdwood to Donner Road, which is about 2.3 miles from the turnoff with the Seward Highway. Follow the signs for the airport (left on Davos and right on Mt. Hood). Alpine Air is the last hangar on the airport road.
Prices & Dates
Season | May 15 - Aug 31 |
Duration | 2 hrs |
Rates | Glacier Dog Sledding // $579 adult, $529 children under 12 | 8:30am, 10:15am, 12:00pm, 1:45pm, 3:30pm, 5:15pm |