Experience a glacier’s deep depths on Outbound Heli’s winter ice cave adventure
Between December and March, glacial ice caves allow guests to explore rivers of ice from the inside out.
There’s nothing quite like flying to an Alaska glacier and witnessing the sheer magnitude of these rivers of ice. Outbound Heli’s adventure flights already soar above the scenic landscapes and land upon their frozen surfaces, but did you know that during the winter months, visitors have the opportunity to explore the inner parts of a glacier? The Winter Ice Cave Adventure is perfect for the curious Alaska explorer of any age and offers some of the most dramatic and picturesque scenes in the Southcentral region.
Experience Alaska’s frozen world from a helicopter
Formed primarily from meltwater during the warmer seasons, glacier ice caves are a stunning reminder that nature’s beauty often comes in a subtle yet dramatic fashion. Especially in the summer, surface melt pools drain directly into the glacier (you can even hear it!), creating tunnels and chambers within the ice as it flows through cracks and moulins (vertical shafts of ice). As the weather becomes cooler, the waterways, some of which can be quite large, freeze into stunning blue caverns that are constantly reshaped during thaw and refreezing cycles.
It’s important to note that not every glacier in Alaska has ice caves within its depths. Conditions that are too warm cause the collapse of would-be caves, and temperatures that are too cold prevent water from melting at all (called ‘stable’ glaciers). And, just because a glacier has a cave one month doesn’t mean it will stay there, or even return the next year, due to the ever-shifting climate and weather conditions of Alaska.
Safety is always the top priority for all helicopter glacier tours
That said, an ice cave helicopter adventure is definitely a rare and truly special experience not found in many other places around the Southcentral region. Outbound Heli’s skillful pilots are masters at reading conditions and ice changes, landing at the optimal location to explore a glacier from the inside out. The ice cave season is short, approximately four months, depending on the year, so taking advantage of this exclusive opportunity means having the chance to stand within a living, moving river of ice; definitely something to tell the friends back home!
Ice cave helicopter adventure on Knik Glacier
The experience begins with a flight down the beautiful Knik River valley, soaring over snowy landscapes and frozen waterfalls before coming upon the Knik Glacier itself. Your pilot, after surveying the terrain, will choose a safe landing spot near the glacier’s toe, then lead you toward its most beautiful, mysterious feature: the ice cave. You’ll have the chance to stand in awe at the entrance, noticing the cave’s interesting ridges smoothed by the forces of water and glowing a brilliant blue hue. If safe, step farther inside and feel the weight of years and years of snow compacted so hard it’s turned to ice, and feel the crunch of crystals and moraine beneath your feet. It’s a distinctive Alaska experience, one that reminds us how small we really are in the context of nature, and is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Outbound Heli Adventures even offers the chance to land at a second cave, doubling the amazement!
THe Details
The Outbound Heli Winter Ice Cave Adventure starts at $599/per person, and the experience is suitable for most ages and abilities (call the Outbound Heli office if you have questions). Guests should be able to walk on uneven surfaces, navigate icy areas, and be willing to be out and about in Alaska’s chilly winter conditions for an extended period of time.
What to bring for Heli Winter Ice Cave Adventure
- Waterproof winter jacket and pants
- Extra layers of non-cotton clothing (wool or polyester fleece are great choices)
- Hats that cover the ears, and waterproof mittens or gloves
- Warm winter boots, rated to at least -10F (even if the temperatures are not that cold, we want you to have toasty feet!)
- Camera and extra camera batteries (cold temperatures drain batteries)
- Empty memory cards (you’re going to take a lot of pictures!)
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Sunglasses (it’s always bright on the glacier)
- An adventurous attitude!
Outbound Heli will provide each guest with hand and foot warmers, and make sure the helicopter’s heat is set at the perfect temperature for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Need more information, or have questions regarding Alaska helicopter tours? The Outbound Heli Adventures team is ready to help! Call 907-351-6736, or email us at info@outboundheli.com.