There’s a host of unique seasonal offerings flying with Outbound Heli, from polar plunges to ice caves.
Located just east of the town of Palmer sits Knik Glacier (called Skitnu Łi’a in the traditional Dena’ina language). At 26 miles long and five miles wide, the ice field is one of Southcentral Alaska’s largest and is about 50 miles (80 km) east of Anchorage on the northern end of the Chugach Mountains. Knik Glacier is a popular place for outdoor enthusiasts year-round, and by far the most dramatic views come from flying over its craggy ice formations, whether you choose to visit in the summer or winter seasons.
Outbound Heli’s Knik Glacier Explorer flight is our most popular, and with good reason. Guests have the opportunity to see not only the stunning Knik Glacier from a helicopter, but also the towering Chugach Mountain range framing the surrounding landscape. Offered year-round, this 90-minute experience also includes a glacier landing, which in the summer may involve a stop at one of the deep blue pools or stunning crevasses, and in the winter, glimpses of the craggy ice walls framing the viewscape.
Sure, there are differences between flying with us in the summer and taking to the sky during the winter months, but is one time of year better than the other? Let’s be clear: Any time spent in Alaska is the perfect time, but there are distinguishing characteristics of Knik Glacier helicopter adventure that might influence your decision. So, read on for some good-to-know information about Outbound Heli Adventures’ always unforgettable flights.
No matter which time of year or which flight option you choose, you’ll see the stunning Chugach Mountain range from above as you fly past snow-capped peaks and over the braided river valleys before landing on more than 300 feet of ancient glacial ice. You’ll also witness the dramatic ice formations that make Knik Glacier one of Southcentral Alaska’s most photographed areas.
Summer vs. Winter: Is one “better” than the other?
Knik Glacier in Winter
A vast, white world surrounded by towering ice
Take a flight into Alaska’s snowy wilderness and experience a winter wonderland of giant ice formations, ice caves, and frozen waterfalls. Depending on snow depth, you may land on the glacier itself. But if conditions don’t allow, your expert pilot will settle the helicopter either at the glacier’s terminus near an ice wall, or along on the shoreline of a frozen iceberg-filled lake.
If you’re worried about having the right clothing for a winter flight adventure, don’t be! Our helpful office team can provide plenty of ideas for staying warm during the landing portion of the Knik Glacier Explorer flight, but in general, layers are the term of the day. We also recommend snow boots and a warm winter coat. Snow pants will keep your legs warm, and a toasty hat and gloves are an absolute must for a truly enjoyable experience. For extra comfort, Outbound Heli provides hand and foot warmers, which tuck right into your boots and gloves.
And, did you know that Southcentral Alaska has plenty of sunshine-y days? That, coupled with the intense reflection of snow and ice, means sunglasses are a good idea to protect eyes from the often-intense glare. Learn more about our packing list here.
Knik Glacier in Summer
Blue pools and polar plunges
As warmer weather arrives, winter’s snowfall melts away and exposes the ice of Knik Glacier, allowing Outbound’s expert pilots to land on the glacier’s surface among brilliant blue melt pools and deep crevasses & moulins. These azure-blue pools are not just incredible photo ops; they’re also incredible ‘polar plunge’ locations, because it’s not every vacation one is given an opportunity to jump into the meltwater of ancient ice! Interested? Let the office team know, and they’ll bring everything needed for a safe, albeit chilly, bucket list experience.
Summer in Alaska also means long, lingering daylight hours and abundant wildlife, so keep a sharp eye out for moose, Dall sheep, mountain goats, bald eagles, and the occasional black bear. The flights out and back from Knik Glacier are wonderful spots to view wildlife, and the green grasses and wildflowers present a stunning backdrop for the day’s adventure. Want a bit of extra adventure? Outbound Heli offers add-on experiences, like paddleboarding on one of those blue pools, climbing a sheer wall of ice, or trekking an alpine ridge.
There’s no ‘best’ way
There’s no ‘best’ way to explore Knik Glacier with Outbound Heli Adventures; just truly unique experiences in a truly unique place. Let us help you plan the perfect glacier exploration flight, any time of year!