Get wild on a fall Outbound Heli Adventures flight
Welcome to autumn in Alaska, when the temperatures begin trending down and everyone, animal and human, makes preparations for the long winter ahead. Here at Outbound Heli Adventures, we’re also shifting into cooler-weather operations, and we’re excited to show off this season of color and activity with our guests.
Alaska’s wildlife always ranks high on the must-see lists for visitors, and many people are surprised to learn that some of the most common species can be viewed from aboard a helicopter. Outbound Heli Adventures takes great care to protect the space of the animals and birds we spot from the cockpit, and it’s still pretty often that we see them in their natural habitats, thanks to the remote locations of our excursions.
The best part of an Outbound adventure is the custom experience our pilots can provide. If wildlife is a big part of your Alaska visit, and you want to try and spot some of the most popular critters in our Southcentral region, let us know: We want every guest to have the adventure of a lifetime, that’s our commitment to you.
What animals are seen most often on Alaska helicopter Tours?
Moose
The largest member of the ungulate (split-hooved) family, moose are one of the most prolific species seen in Southcentral Alaska. A very large animal, moose can stand up to six feet at their back and weigh nearly 1,000 pounds, which makes them a formidable presence. During the fall months, male moose sport large antlers as they move into the “rut”, or breeding season, and they’re quite a dramatic sight against the yellows, reds, and browns of the surrounding mountainsides. Look for moose in the lowland marsh and meadow areas near the Outbound Heli base area and along river shorelines as they munch on grasses and shrubs.
Bears
Southcentral Alaska is fortunate to have both black and brown bears living in the region, although black bears are the species most often spotted from helicopters as they browse along grassy slopes and meadow areas. With their dark coats and lumbering walk, black bears are always exciting to see, especially in the fall months, as they spend every waking moment eating in preparation for hibernation sometime in late October or early November.
Dall sheep
Inhabiting the mountain ranges across most of Alaska, Dall sheep, these white creatures are most notable for the males’ massive curled horns. Females (known as ewes) also carry horns, but theirs are shorter and more slender, and only slightly curved. Dall sheep are found along open alpine ridges, meadows, and steep slopes with extremely rugged “escape terrain” in the immediate vicinity. When danger approaches, they flee to the rocks and crags to elude pursuers. Look for Dall sheep in these high-country areas while flying with Outbound, but they may also be spotted along rocky gorges. Bald eagle: Our nation’s bird, the bald eagle is also Alaska’s largest bird of prey, featuring a wing span of up to 7.5 feet! Bald eagles are found only in North America, and it is estimated that the Alaska population of bald eagles numbers around 30,000. Outbound Heli passengers often spy eagles soaring over craggy mountaintops, but we’re always careful not to invade their airspace!
Other important information for spotting wildlife
Set realistic expectations for your flight. Will every trip feature wildlife? Nope, because Alaska’s wild creatures are just that – wild, and often unpredictable in their behavior. That said, our pilots are well-versed in spotting signs of wildlife from both the air and on the ground, so rest assured, if a moose is browsing a brushy area or a bear is wandering a hillside, we’ll be sure to call it out.
Additionally, Outbound Heli Adventures is keen on adapting flights to a guest’s interests. If you want to see wildlife, our pilot will do his or her best to find the animals or birds on your list!
Not sure which flight to book? Our Scenic Sampler adventure is the perfect trip for wildlife lovers, since the entire 60-minute flight is spent in the air, and our pilots will take the path matching your desire to spot wild critters!
And, if you want to experience Alaska’s wildlife on a deeper level during your vacation, there are several opportunities to learn more about the animals and birds inhabiting our area:
- Musk Ox Farm: Located a short distance from Outbound Heli Adventures. Guided tours around this lovely farm to learn about the prehistoric musk ox.
- Reindeer Farm: Visit this lovely family farm and their herd of reindeer (and other animals), located just minutes from Outbound base.
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: A 45-minute drive south of Anchorage. This 200-acre facility is home to all the Alaska wildlife, and in a beautiful location as well!
- Alaska Zoo: Located in South Anchorage. Perfect for families with kids or anyone wanting to experience animals and birds of the Circumpolar North. Free shuttle from downtown Anchorage.