It’s inevitable that when flightseeing guests see the Knik Glacier, the comments come fast and furious across the headsets. “Look at those blue pools! Wouldn’t it be amazing to swim in one?” We agree, they are something special. And YES. You can swim in one. Outbound Heli is proud to offer a complimentary Alaska glacier polar plunge on many of our helicopter tours as a way to add a real splash of adventure to any Alaska vacation.
A cold plunge experience like no other, the Outbound Heli Adventures team makes every step into the icy-but-beautiful waters of Knik Glacier’s blue meltwater pools unforgettable, and one that will certainly secure bragging rights back home.
Which Outbound Heli Tours Include the Complimentary Polar Plunge?
Seven Outbound Heli Adventures flights offer a complimentary glacier polar plunge: Knik Glacier Explorer, Chugach Explorer, Glacier Paddleboarding, Glacier Trekking, Ice Climbing, Packrafting, and Sled Dog Tours with a glacier landing. Booked a flight not offering the polar plunge? Talk to our team about switching to a different adventure if the icy dip is on your must-do list!
How Does the Alaska Glacier Polar Plunge Work?
Decide before you depart
You can decide if you’d like to do the Knik Glacier polar plunge before you fly, at check-in, or even once you arrive at the glacier. Even if you think you might want to plunge, our pilots will bring towels and all the safety gear necessary for your safety and comfort, so you don’t have to worry about freezing or slipping.
Jumping or stepping?
There are also two styles of polar plunging: jumping or stepping, and both provide the same awesome thrill. If you know in advance your preferred water entry style, our team will match that with the perfect location for the plunge. If your group has a mix of steppers and jumpers, not to worry! The pilot will pick a location to accommodate everybody.
For water steppers, who generally want a more gradual entrance into the gorgeous blue pools, pilots choose a flatter site where the water meets the ice’s edge. Jumpers tend to want a bit of height, and many pools have a small ledge just right for leaping safely (making great photos and video, too!).
Ploar plunge safety
Ahead of your plunge, the pilot will create a safe entry and exit station using a yoga mat, rope, and ice screws. Our basket of towels will be laid out and ready, and all that’s left is to get ready for the best swim of your life. The pilot will help you get to the entrance spot, make sure you’re steady, and that all loose items (sunglasses, phones, extra clothing) are secured, and away you go! If you don’t have someone along to take photos or videos, your pilot will be happy to capture the moment, and plungers can enter the water one at a time or as a group. When you’re ready to exit the water, let the pilot know, they’ll help you navigate the ice safely and keep everyone calm (the cold can be a bit of a shock, and the glacier ice is unforgiving on knees and elbows).
Frequently Asked Questions about glacier polar plunge
Our best advice during the non-snow months is to dress in layers. The key to comfort, especially on Alaska glacier helicopter flights, layers should include a long-sleeve base, a fleece or sweater middle layer, and a waterproof jacket, even if there’s no precipitation. Also, be sure to wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes, preferably hiking boots. No heels or sandals are allowed for safety reasons.
When can I do the polar plunge in Alaska?
The Outbound Heli polar plunge is available once the glacial blue pools have thawed, typically from mid-May through mid-September each year. For a full breakdown of what to expect on the glacier by season, check out our Summer vs. Winter on Knik Glacier blog post.
Is the glacier polar plunge really free?
Absolutely it is! If you are on one of the seven helicopter adventures mentioned above, the polar plunge is a complementary part of your Outbound Heli Adventures experience. No add-on, no upsell.
When during the trip does the polar plunge happen?
Typically, the polar plunge is the last activity on the glacier. Guests on a paddleboarding adventure are welcome to hop in and out of the water freely throughout, but for everyone else, plunging last means we can fire up the helicopter and get the heat going for the flight back to base.
What should I wear for the Alaska glacier polar plunge?
The only hard and fast rule is that you must wear socks to keep your feet safe from micro cuts due to the ice. Beyond that, wear whatever you’re most comfortable in. Guests have plunged in everything from bathing suits to birthday suits, and we’ve genuinely seen it all. Our pilots are thoughtful about creating towel changing areas before and after, so bring or wear whatever makes the experience yours.
Is the Knik Glacier polar plunge really worth it?
We think so! And so do the guests who come out of the water with the biggest smiles we see all season. The cold only lasts a moment, but the memories, the adrenaline, and the Alaska story you’ll tell forever? Those are priceless.
Ready to Take the Plunge?
Book your Outbound Heli adventure today and be sure to ask about the glacier polar plunge experience when you check in! Call our office at +1 907-351-6736, or email the team at info@outboundheli.com.
We’ll make sure you’re set up for the coldest, greatest moment of your Alaska trip.
