NorthStar Trekking
NorthStar Trekking
5
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Full view
About
NorthStar Helicopters provides many Helicopter tours including Glacier Trekking, Glacier Dog Sledding, and Taku River Airboating. We are committed to providing outdoor adventures that are tailored to the interests and abilities of each guest, with safety as our foremost priority. By employing an extremely professional and knowledgeable staff, utilizing the highest quality gear, and operating in accordance with our high safety standards, we continue to lead the industry in efficiency, reliability, and excellence.
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NorthStar Trekking
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
515 reviews
Excellent
487
Very good
11
Average
4
Poor
3
Terrible
10
travlinbuick
Gardiner, MT8 contributions
Sep 2020
Hands down the best experience! Incredible views, stunning landscapes, breathtaking ride to the glacier. Friendly, informative and professional staff all around. Drivers, front desk, guides and pilots. The Northstar crew went above and beyond my expections and even during a non tourist season for Juneau and no one on the list to take a tour, they managed to find another couple willing to go while I was visiting and made it possible for me to take this trip. Not always and easy thing when you are a solo traveler. I was lucky enough to do the Glacier Trek Tour and it was surreal. I can not thank the staff enough for making this dream a reality for me. Thank you James for a very educational and fun trek. I sadly am not sure if I remember the pilots name correctly, Mike maybe, so sorry. But he too was outstanding and even though I was terrified of flying in a helicopter within the first few seconds after take off I was so happy to be in that seat next to him. I felt safe and the stunning views all around will make your fears disappear. If you only get to do one thing while in Juneau don't pass this up. Worth every penny and I only wish I could have tipped everyone more. I can't wait to revisit Juneau and take another tour with Northstar! You guys and gals ROCK!
Written September 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda I
Hamilton, NJ38 contributions
Jul 2019
Our family - hubby and I, two kids and their spouses, visited Alaska in the Summer of 2019. One of our excursions was Northstar's "Helicopter Glacier Walkabout" through Princess Cruises in Juneau. It's definitely a "splurge" in terms of cost, but worth every single penny! From the moment our pilot, Jenny, boarded and gently lifted us up, we were spellbound with unbelievable views of the mountains and glaciers. We landed on the glacier and walked around with our amazing tour guides, hearing explanations and learning about glaciers. We were given water bottles to use to collect glacier water from a tiny stream. The company provided all safety gear, including jackets and a fanny pack with supplies, as well as a safety review before we boarded. The helicopter was in top shape, clean and beautiful, and the employees clearly enjoy their jobs but take safety very seriously. We were nervous about flying in the helicopter but our fears were put to rest as soon as we took off. I highly recommend this as an experience you don't get to enjoy very many times in your life!
Written February 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wow! We are so happy to meet people like you and make dreams come true. You're the reason we do this! We love sharing our home. Thank you so much for the kind words. We hope to see you again!
Written March 16, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Merryn O
3 contributions
Jun 2022
My husband and I did this excursion before we had kids, and brought them up this year to do it. They have heard the stories, but now they understand why it was so memorable for us.
It started with Rachel, our pilot, who was a very skilled pilot. She took us through some misty clouds, and kept us safe while showing us as much as the weather would allow. The landed us on the glacier and then came back to pick us up a few hours later.
Our guides on the glacier were wonderful! Kind and patient, and such a wealth of knowledge. They have us plenty of time to take photos and brief rests when our group of about 10 needed it. They kept us safe, and we never felt in danger at all.
After a couple of thrilling hours on the glacier we were picked up by Rachel and taken back to the airport.
The transfers to and from the cruise ship were great, and on time.
I would recommend this to anyone who has a real interest in being up close and personal with a glacier.
It started with Rachel, our pilot, who was a very skilled pilot. She took us through some misty clouds, and kept us safe while showing us as much as the weather would allow. The landed us on the glacier and then came back to pick us up a few hours later.
Our guides on the glacier were wonderful! Kind and patient, and such a wealth of knowledge. They have us plenty of time to take photos and brief rests when our group of about 10 needed it. They kept us safe, and we never felt in danger at all.
After a couple of thrilling hours on the glacier we were picked up by Rachel and taken back to the airport.
The transfers to and from the cruise ship were great, and on time.
I would recommend this to anyone who has a real interest in being up close and personal with a glacier.
Written June 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Haley
San Francisco, CA21 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
We made the mistake of booking the glacier walkabout which included 1 hour on the glacier. We walked in a small circle on the glacier for 30 mins and the guides asked us if we wanted pictures along the way. The best part of the trip was the helicopter to the glacier but the short while on the glacier was very underwhelming. We were back at our hotel in less than 3 hours. The walkabout should be intended for small kids but would definitely recommend to do the trek instead if you are looking for something thrilling as it’s not worth the money.
Written June 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Family H
Huntington Beach, CA11 contributions
Jul 2020
We did a 3 hour tour with glacier climbing and rappelling after a wonderful helicopter ride. Bill, our guide, was terrific.
It was amazing to see the dynamic nature of the glacier with all the water making the ice a living monument.
They provide all the gear, just dress in warm layers and if you have gloves take them as a back up in case you drop your glove like I did...it instantly got wet and that's when you get cold. I wore a 2 pants layers, a base layer shirt, long sleeve shirt, heavy fleece jacket, ear cover and beanie under the gear they provided.
This is a Must Do when you're in Juneau.
It was amazing to see the dynamic nature of the glacier with all the water making the ice a living monument.
They provide all the gear, just dress in warm layers and if you have gloves take them as a back up in case you drop your glove like I did...it instantly got wet and that's when you get cold. I wore a 2 pants layers, a base layer shirt, long sleeve shirt, heavy fleece jacket, ear cover and beanie under the gear they provided.
This is a Must Do when you're in Juneau.
Written July 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mabel
5 contributions
May 2021 • Friends
As these were still Covid times, I was the only person who booked a morning extended glacier tour. My sister was supposed to do a shorter trip but NorthStar helped us get on the same extended tour so mine didn’t have to be cancelled for not meeting the minimum. The person I spoke to on the phone reassured me we could accommodate my sister’s needs vs. being given a predetermined itinerary once on the glacier. It worked out perfectly! Our guide, Bill, was a delight and we felt comfortable the whole time. I got to try ice climbing for the first time and it was really fun. Everyone we interacted with with this company was wonderful and of course the scenery was awe inspiring. Enjoyed a peaceful time without the cruise ship crowds.
Written May 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
michart2016
Vancouver Island, Canada4 contributions
Jun 2022
Husband & I had a fantastic experience on our excursion. Helicopter ride to the icefield to go dog sledding can not be put into words on how beautiful and majestic the scenery was. The dog sled camp was literally in the middle of no where and so beautiful & peaceful. Dogs are well looked after and loved all the attention. Our cruise line had a change in itinerary and NorthStar worked really hard to get us to our boat on time. Definitely a "Priceless Adventure" .
One word to describe this experience..... AWESOME!
One word to describe this experience..... AWESOME!
Written July 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
lostwahine
Cape Coral, FL55 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
We went on the helicopter tour and 1 hour guided hike on the glacier. Very experienced pilot - the view of the glaciers and mountains from above was incredible. Tyler was waiting for us when we landed on the glacier and got us geared up quickly. I really enjoyed hiking with crampons on the ice. Rainy weather does make the ice bluer, so don't worry if it's not sunny - it will still be amazing. The staff are all so genuinely nice and helpful. Overall, highly recommend this company and tour.
Written July 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David T
Sacramento, CA171 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
This was a Royal Caribbean excursion option called the “ helicopter glacier walk about” by Northstar. So happy we chose this excursion. They meet you right off the ship in Sitka and shuttle you over to the airport Only 6 guests per helicopter + the pilot. When you arrive they have everything ready for you. Your hiking boots, pants, jacket and gloves. The gloves are thin but keep your fingers safe from getting cuts on ice if you fell. When we arrived it was raining so I thought they may cancel the excursion, but they did not. The team comes together and gives you a safety introduction to everything you’re going to experience. Once you get in the helicopter it’s pure enjoyment from there. There’s about a 20 minute sightseeing flight to the glacier. When we landed, there were staff ready to help you off and get you ready for your walk. They put spikes on your boots and give you a walking stick. The only complaint I have is I wish it was longer. They had two teammates take you on a short walk on the glacier and tell you all about it
Get your cameras ready for some amazing pictures. The flight back was only 10 minutes. They are very specific about not bringing bags or purses on the tour. We brought a backpack and we were able to leave it at their facility but while you’re on the tour you’re not allowed to bring anything large but your phone and small items. They give you a large Fanny pack to put small items in. Their goal while you’re walking on ice is to not fall because you’re focused on a large camera or a backpack. But feel safe about bringing your backpack and leaving it at their facility while on the tour. I hope you enjoy the tour as much as we did.
Get your cameras ready for some amazing pictures. The flight back was only 10 minutes. They are very specific about not bringing bags or purses on the tour. We brought a backpack and we were able to leave it at their facility but while you’re on the tour you’re not allowed to bring anything large but your phone and small items. They give you a large Fanny pack to put small items in. Their goal while you’re walking on ice is to not fall because you’re focused on a large camera or a backpack. But feel safe about bringing your backpack and leaving it at their facility while on the tour. I hope you enjoy the tour as much as we did.
Written June 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rtraveler2004
Lexington, KY151 contributions
May 2022 • Solo
I did the Helicopter Glacier trek and this is definitely something everyone needs to add to their bucket list! We took a chopper up and landed on the top of Mendenhall Glacier. Christina is an amazing pilot and flew this chopper flawlessly while giving commentary on our way up to the glacier. The hike on glacier lasted about 2 hours where you see some landscapes you wouldn't think even existed on earth. Beautiful glacier pools, constant changing streams, and enormous ice walls will blow your mind! After the hike, we took the chopper back down to Juneau Airport.
Written July 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How is the weather usually doing the 4:00 pm Helicopter Glacier Trek in early July? Is there more of a chance of it being canceled doing it later in the day? Also, when choosing the 4:00 tour, do you pick up from the cruise port at that time, or sooner and start the tour at 4:00? I will probably be getting back from another excursion around 3:30.
Written July 13, 2020
NorthStar Helicopters
Juneau, Alaska
Hello! Thank you for reaching out!
When you book a tour with NorthStar, your tour time is also your pick-up time. If you book through your cruiseship, then, yes, we will pick you up right at the dock. If you book directly with us or through a third party vendor, your pick-up locations and options will vary.
Unfortunately, our weather is difficult to predict and there is no time of day that it is more or less likely to cloud and cause weather cancellations. I can assure you that we want to fly as much as you do, and our only reason for weather cancellation would be out of concern for the safety of our guests and team. Safety, at NorthStar, will always be our priority.
I hope this helps and we will see you soon! Take care,
Cait
Written July 14, 2020
What cruise line did all of you go with? I'm going on NCL and I wanted to know if my glacier trek excursion will be this company or another. Also, how long were you all on the glacier?
Written July 24, 2019
Booked through NCL cruise line. The excursion descriptions are pretty accurate. Our time was about 30 min or less on the glacier because we also did the airboat and heli tour. It was in the description and we knew ahead of time when we booked the excursion. We opted for this tour rather than a 2-3 hour glacier trek.
Written August 25, 2019
If you are on a cruise North Star works directly with the cruise lines and you need to book at your shore excursion desk on-board or through your cruise lines web site before your cruise.
Written July 18, 2018
Going in June 2018 on Princess. Does the walk about take you to glacier pools and streams which you can drink from. What do you see behind the flats in the pictures?
Written May 22, 2018
... clarification ...what do you see ‘beyond’ the flat areas in the pictures on the walk about....
Written May 23, 2018
Shannon H
Juneau, Alaska
Hello, In response to your question regarding our cancellation policy, if your tour is cancelled due to weather, you will be refunded in full. Thank you for asking and we hope to see you soon in Juneau.
Written May 10, 2018
Hello. I will be doing the level 2 trek on August 13th with my husband. What should we wear? I've heard "dress in layers", but does that mean long underwear, jeans, and snow pants? Long underwear and jeans? What type of gloves/headwear should I wear?
Written July 9, 2017
Shannon H
Juneau, Alaska
Hello. Dress in layers means different things to people from varied climates, so we appreciate your concern here. For some, it means long underwear, to others, a long sleeve shirt and comfortable hiking pants, such as jeans.
To better assist you with preparations for your tour with us, we recommend that you pack what is appropriate for you in a temperature range of about 45 - 60 degrees fahrenheit and rainy. Rain is expected and anything warmer than this is a treat.
We provide rain and wind protective jacket and pants, however they do not provide much warmth, so at least a fleece or mid-layer of sort is advised. Also provided by us are a light pair of fleece gloves and a helmet, however some do prefer a hat underneath of additional warmth.
We hope this is helpful and welcome any additional questions. Thanks again and we look forward to seeing you soon.
Written July 12, 2017
hello!
i would like to book a tour with you for this june-
we are coming in on the emerald Princess.
what is the smallest group that you take?
does the no of people on the group make a difference on the cost?
Written March 13, 2017
We booked through our cruise line, Celebrity Cruises. They will provide all the information you need however highly recommend booking early. We tried shopping around and found either the prices were comparable or either the tour groups set aside all there availabilities for the cruise ships and there were no secular openings. And then when we tried to book through the cruise line they were already booked up. Once onboard I went to the excursion desk and asked to be put on a cancellation list, fortunately at the very last minute we were able to squeeze in so if you really have your heart set on this recommend booking as early as possible! Depending on the excursion (ours required a helicopter ride to the glacier) the groups can be very limited as you have to fit into a helicopter with guides. I do not believe the number of your group will make a difference. Hope this helps:)
Written March 13, 2017
I'm from the UK and unable to request a brochure via your website. Is it possible to request one sent to the UK or if possible would it possible to know the rough price for the Extended Helicopter Glacier Trek?
Many thanks
Jonny
Written July 4, 2016
Shannon H
Juneau, Alaska
Hi Johnny, thanks for your interest in the Extended Trek. If you get us your email address we can send an electronic copy otherwise we would be happy to send you a paper copy. We can be reached via email at info@ email address on our website.
Written July 5, 2016
I am unable to locate your "cancellation" policy on your website. I will be arriving via cruise ship (Celebrity-Infinity) but on my last cruise to Alaska on Holland weather would not allow us to port in Juneau, nor Ketchikan .. huge storm! I had booked via the cruise line for a helicopter/glacier trek but of course it was cancelled and my money was credited back to me. I am very excited to plan a second try at this adventure, but am concerned I will loose my money if the ship doesn't go into port when it is scheduled. I want to do this SO much !
thanks ... looking forward to hearing from you. I sent a reservation request to your website.
Written July 17, 2015
Shannon H
Juneau, Alaska
Thanks for checking with us on this. If weather cancels the tour or if your ship can't make it into port than you tour would be 100% refunded. Feel free to give us a call with any other questions. Our toll free number is 866.590.4530.
Written July 20, 2015
Hi!
What is the age range for these tours? We have family from 4 - 70 traveling with us.
Thanks,
C-
Written June 25, 2015
Shannon H
Juneau, Alaska
Thanks for your interest in our trekking tours. We do have minimum age limits on all three tours but no max age. The Level 1 Walkabout has a minimum age of 8. The Level 2 Trek minimum age is 12 and the Level 3 Extended Trek is 14. Let me know if you have any other questions 866.590.4530
Written June 28, 2015
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.