Helicopter dog sledding trip

Question

Travelling to Alaska next year and looking to do the helicopter dog sledding trip. HAL have 2 advertised, one goes to Mendenhall glacier & the other goes to Norris glacier. The one to Norris is a longer trip & only slightly more expensive. Can anyone give any recommendations which one to book. I read somewhere that the one to Norris glacier is less likely to be cancelled as you don't go as high but not sure if that's true. Would really appreciate any information from someone local or who has done either trip. Thanks in advance 👍

Answer

Helicopter dog sledding in Juneau is an unforgettable experience, and both the Mendenhall Glacier and Norris Glacier trips offered by HAL are excellent, but they have some differences that may affect your choice.

The Mendenhall Glacier trip is shorter and tends to be more popular due to its accessibility and views of the iconic Mendenhall Glacier. You’ll get a scenic helicopter ride, land on the glacier, and have the opportunity to meet the dogs and experience a dog sled ride. This trip is great if you want a shorter adventure and more predictable timing.

The Norris Glacier trip is longer, goes deeper into the backcountry, and offers a more remote, less crowded experience. It usually involves a longer flight over rugged terrain, and while the sledding experience is similar, the added time and scenery make it more adventurous. Some locals and past visitors mention that it may be slightly less prone to cancellations due to weather compared to Mendenhall, as you spend more time over flatter terrain rather than near the glacier icefalls.

Mendenhall Glacier trip: Shorter duration, iconic views, very popular, may be more affected by weather near the glacier.
Norris Glacier trip: Longer adventure, more remote, slightly less likely to be cancelled, scenic backcountry views, slightly higher cost.

Other tips to consider:

Book early, especially in summer months, as both trips can fill up quickly.
Dress warmly in layers; it can be cold and windy on the glacier even in summer.
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen, as snow glare can be intense.
Check cancellation policies and be prepared for flexibility, as weather can affect any glacier trip.
If you’re seeking a more remote experience and don’t mind a slightly longer flight, Norris Glacier may be the better choice.
If you prefer a shorter, iconic experience that’s easier to fit into a day with other activities in Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is ideal.

In conclusion, both trips are excellent, but your choice should depend on whether you prioritize a shorter, well-known glacier experience or a longer, more remote adventure with potentially fewer cancellations.

Helicopter dog sledding trip

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