Why Visit Alaska in Winter: Top Winter Activities in Alaska

Photo: Juno Kim

Guiding small groups around Alaska year-round for the past three years, I have learned to appreciate the subtleties between the months and the extremes of different seasons here. My advice for those who visit in summer: come back in the winter. It’s vastly different.

How Alaska Transforms Between Summer and Winter

Not only does the landscape look different, but the activities in winter are distinct as well. A great example of that is our helicopter flights over Knik Glacier. You could do the exact same flight path at different times of the year and your experience would be unique each time. Want a deeper look at how these two seasons stack up? Explore our guide on visiting Alaska in winter vs. summer.

• Summer: Blooming wildflowers, edible berries, and plenty of wildlife, including mother moose with calves and roaming bears. Early summer brings lush green forests beneath snow-capped peaks, while fall transforms the tundra into red, gold, and yellow hues.

• Winter: By October or November, southcentral Alaska is dusted in snow, leading into a six-month season of white. The stark contrasts — evergreen spruce, grey granite, and bare trees piercing the snow — make Alaska winter adventures unforgettable.

Nothing in Alaska is as sublime as winter. The landscape feels buried in hibernation, yet alive with opportunities. This unforgiving but breathtaking climate is exactly why you should visit Alaska in winter: to experience the extremes of the Great Land.

Alaska Winter Activities: What can we do in Alaska in Winter?

Snowshoeing Adventures

Wander through the snow-covered boreal forest or take it to the next level with heli-snowshoeing. Our winter tour includes a 20-minute scenic helicopter flight over the mountains to Knik Glacier, followed by 1.5 hours exploring a snow-laden wonderland. All winter gear is provided, making it perfect for beginners.

Ice Climbing on Glaciers

Suit up for a 4–5 hour guided adventure on a glacier wall. With ropes, harnesses, crampons, and ice tools provided, you’ll safely ascend frozen terrain in one of the most unique Alaska winter attractions.

Fat Biking and Winter Hiking

Cyclists trade road and mountain bikes for fat bikes — invented in Alaska to handle snow-packed trails. Hikers keep trails alive year-round, creating packed winter routes perfect for exploring on foot.

Skiing and Snowmachining

Cross-country skiers glide along groomed trails across southcentral Alaska, while downhill enthusiasts flock to Alyeska Resort. There’s also world-class heli-skiing in the Chugach Mountains, which features our favorite mode of transportation - helicopter. Speaking of winter and helicopters, we’ve added a little twist to an old standard. For motorized fun, snowmachining (snowmobiling) is a local favorite, with plenty of terrain to explore.

Photo: Juno Kim 

Helicopter Adventures in Winter

At Alaska Helicopter Tours, we continue flying year-round, offering some of the most memorable winter activities in Alaska.

• Knik Glacier Landing Tour: Experience snow-covered ice fields up close.

• Grand Knik Tour: A longer adventure with sweeping views of the glacier and surrounding peaks.

• Winter Heli Snowshoeing: A signature winter experience combining flightseeing and snowshoeing.

Even with shorter daylight hours, our expert pilots showcase the dramatic beauty of the Knik River Valley throughout the season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alaska Winter Adventures

What are the best winter activities in Alaska?

Top activities include helicopter glacier landings, winter heli snowshoeing, guided ice climbing, fat biking, skiing, and snowmachining.

Why visit Alaska in winter instead of summer?

Winter offers quieter landscapes, dramatic snow-covered scenery, northern lights viewing, and unique glacier experiences only available during colder months.

Is it safe to explore glaciers in winter?

Yes. With proper gear and experienced guides, glacier landings, ice climbing, and snowshoeing are safe and unforgettable.

When is the best time for Alaska winter adventures?

November through March offers ideal conditions for snow-based activities and aurora viewing.

What should I pack for winter helicopter tours?

Wear layered, insulated clothing, waterproof outerwear, warm boots, gloves, and a hat. We provide specialized equipment like snowshoes or crampons as needed.

Alaska Helicopter Tours in different seasons

The wonder of Alaska is witnessing the landscape change from one season to the next. If you’ve flown with us in summer, come back and join us for a helicopter tour in winter.