Private Winter Ice Climbing With Helicopter Access
Lift by helicopter to climb frozen falls with expert guides on a private, beginner-friendly adventure
From$1,579incl. taxes and fees
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Discover what we've curated for you
Lift by helicopter to climb frozen falls with expert guides on a private, beginner-friendly adventure
Discover what we've curated for you
4 hours
Helicopter access, Guides, Gear
Fly by helicopter to the Knik Glacier for a private ice climbing session tailored to your comfort level. Use provided technical gear and learn essential moves as you climb frozen formations with expert guides.
No experience required; a moderate fitness level is recommended. Per-seat limit is 300 lbs and typical combined 600 lbs on R44; guests 250 lbs+ may require an extra seat. All guests are weighed at check-in and seating is assigned for weight and balance.
What is not allowed?
Drones, bear spray, lighters, battery packs, and firearms are not allowed. Backpacks or bags are not permitted in the helicopter; items must fit in pockets and loose straps must be secured.
What helicopters do you fly?
Robinson R44, R66, and AStar helicopters. Aircraft type is not guaranteed unless a private helicopter is booked.
Do you weigh passengers?
Accurate weights are required for safety. All guests are weighed at check-in, and seating is assigned based on weight and balance and cannot be pre-selected.
What etiquette and safety should I expect?
Return to the helicopter when prompted to avoid delays. The pilot will choose the safest route and viewing areas based on weather and FAA restrictions.
Free cancellation 24+ hours before start; inside 24 hours is non-refundable. Changes within 24 hours may incur a change fee. Weather cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled.
29979 East Knik River Road, Palmer AK 99645
Nate has clearly mastered the art of creating magical northern lights experiences in Fairbanks. Travelers consistently praise his exceptional customer service and flexibility, particularly his generous 24-hour cancellation policy that sets him apart from other tour operators. He doesn't just take groups to crowded viewing spots but finds secluded locations with clear skies, often setting up on frozen lakes with warming fires, hot drinks, reindeer sausages (with vegetarian options), and s'mores. His ability to read weather patterns and adapt plans on the fly means guests have the best possible chance of seeing the aurora. What makes Nate stand out is how he juggles everything seamlessly. He's building fires, cooking food, capturing stunning photos that arrive in your inbox by morning, spotting wildlife along the way, and still managing to give personalized attention to each guest. The tours often run late into the night or early morning, with Nate continuing to check for aurora activity even on the drive back. Beyond northern lights hunting, he also guides trips to Chena Hot Springs and the ice museum, sharing his extensive knowledge about Alaska throughout. Groups ranging from kids to seniors have felt comfortable and well-cared-for, with extras like blankets, mittens, and warming pads provided when needed.
My adventure with Nate was wonderful. After going to Chena Hot Springs where I saw the ice museum, drank an appletini, and soaked in the hot springs, he took us to the perfect place to see the aurora, which was fantastic. There he cooked reindeer sausages and s’mores. He was a great guide, quite knowledgeable about the area and the aurora, and fun to be with. The whole trip far exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend him.
Tom Mellin
September 28, 2025
My adventure with Nate was wonderful. After going to Chena Hot Springs where I saw the ice museum, drank an appletini, and soaked in the hot springs, he took us to the perfect place to see the aurora, which was fantastic. There he cooked reindeer sausages and s’mores. He was a great guide, quite knowledgeable about the area and the aurora, and fun to be with. The whole trip far exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend him.
Tom Mellin
September 28, 2025