I Took my 3 year old on a Helicopter to a Glacier in Alaska (and Went Dog Sledding!)
Some days you know, even while they’re happening, that you’ll be telling the story for the rest of your life. Landing a helicopter on a glacier in Alaska — and then being pulled across the snow by a team of very happy sled dogs — was one of those days for our family. I always mention the “Top 10” things I’ve done / places I’ve been to - and this experience is always on the list.
My 3 year old and I took a helicopter ride to a Glacier in Alaska and then went dog sledding…AND, I was 20 weeks pregnant at the time :)
How a glacier dog sledding tour actually works
It’s a bucket-list combo that’s easier than it sounds. You depart from Juneau or Skagway — add which one you flew from], lift off by helicopter, and fly over jaw-dropping ice fields and blue crevasses. In a few minutes you touch down at a working dog camp built right on the glacier, where the mushers live and train through the summer.
Once you land, you meet the dogs — and there are a LOT of them. Many are athletes who race the Iditarod, and they are absolutely buzzing to run. You climb onto the sled, a musher takes the reins, and off you go across the snow with the whole team pulling. Afterward there’s usually time to meet the dogs, hear about life on the glacier, and (if you’re lucky) snuggle a puppy.
Doing it with young kids
● The helicopter portion is short and scenic — our son did great, but check the operator’s minimum age and weight rules when you book. I honestly don’t think anyone even asked his age?
● They provide the big stuff (special boots), but dress everyone in warm layers (My jacket is from here) — it’s snowy! We wore jeans and they got
wet and cold. Next time I’d choose better pants.
● My son, being from Florida, was equally as impressed with the snow as he was the helicopter, glacier and dog sled. After sledding, he just
wanted to make snow angels!
Tips before you book
● Book early. These tours are wildly popular and sell out, especially on cruise days.
● Weather can cancel flights — schedule this for the FIRST part of your trip so you have backup days if it gets bumped.
● Go in the morning for the calmest weather and clearest views.
● Bring a camera strap and sunglasses — the glare off the ice is intense. We also brought a go pro to film the experience.
Our Alaska packing list: the warm layers, gloves, and camera gear that saved the day.
Would we do it again? In a heartbeat. If a glacier dog sled day is anywhere near your Alaska plans, say yes. Next time, I’d bring the entire family!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — it helps keep Becca and Fam going. We only share things we genuinely love.