Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast

If you want an Alaska seaplane excursion that takes you completely off the beaten path to remote wilderness, this is the trip for you. Visitors of all ages can enjoy this adventure leaving you with memories to last a lifetime. This breathtaking and quintessential Alaskan experience includes glacier flightseeing, a rustic and historic log cabin, wilderness wandering, and a salmon feast like no other.

Your seaplane will take off from the Gastineau Channel, which separates the city of Juneau on the mainland from Douglas Island. Everyone will enjoy a window seat in the DeHaviland Otter floatplane, so nothing will restrict your view of 5 Juneau glaciers you will fly over on this Juneau seaplane tour. The unique experience of taking off from the ocean is just the beginning of this rustic adventure. Your flight will give you birds-eye views of breathtaking waterfalls, glaciers, icefields, ocean waterways, and maybe even animal sightings high on the mountain peaks.

The Taku River will act as your landing strip as your floatplane arrives at the remote location of the Taku Lodge. Located directly across the river from the Hole In The Wall Glacier, the rustic lodge offers spectacular views of the glacier while you enjoy a cup of tea or a glass of beer or wine. You can wander on one of the short walking paths through the rainforest or explore the lodge full of historic dog sled memorabilia, hunting and trapping gear, and other Alaskan relics. Keep an eye out as you roam the property for a great chance to spot local black bears that frequent the area!

Soon you'll catch the amazing aroma of fresh wild Alaskan King Salmon grilling on the fire, which will clue you in that it's almost time to feast! While you enjoy your meal (along with many amazing side dishes or the option for chicken), your entertaining host will share with you the history of the lodge, stories, and fables of the olden days. Don't be shy on going back for more of this incredible salmon feast as this delicious meal is all-you-can-eat! If you want to touch a piece of the glacier, make sure to grab a chunk of the glacial ice that cools the beverages.

After your meal, you can cozy up next to the fireplace or take some more time to roam the area surrounding the lodge. Options include participating in a guided interpretive nature walk, drinking another beverage as you bask in the glory of the glacier, or shopping in the Alaskan-themed gift shop. This location is so idyllic and cozy you may never want to leave!

When it's time to return back to town, you will re-board the Alaska seaplane for another flightseeing trip back to Juneau. Make sure you have your camera ready to capture the beauty of the glaciers and landscape that surrounds you on the return flight.

Included: Everyone is provided with a headset and full narration is provided throughout the tour. Everyone always has a window seat. Flightseeing operated in Otter floatplanes which can hold up to 10 guests.

Please note: For this tour only, times given are approximate. Departure times vary daily due to daylight hours and demand. Please advise of your preferred time of day and we will make every attempt to accommodate your schedule. Child price for 2-12 years old. Under 2 years old are free but must ride on adult's lap.

Duration: 3 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal. Flight time: 45 minutes. Taku Lodge time: 2 hours.)

Inclusions:

Headphones to listen to the captain's narration
A full meal of fresh grilled king salmon, baked beans, coleslaw, fruit compote, herb biscuits, sourdough bread, ginger cookies,and hot/cold beverages
Souvenir flight map
Infants under 2 years old are free and do not require a ticket. Please indicate that you are traveling with an infant during checkout.

Requirements:

Maximum weight: 300lbs
Guests must be comfortable walking short distances on uneven surfaces

Duration: 3 hours. Tour times below are approximate:

15~20 minutes - preflight safety briefing and preparation
45 minutes - glacier flightseeing via floatplane
2 hours - stay at the Taku Lodge with an optional 20 minutes guided nature walk
15 minutes - flight back to the dock

Meeting Instructions:

This tour meets at the Merchant's Wharf dock. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

This tour is limited mobility accessible. Guests must be able to climb 4 steps into and out of the bus and also up into the floatplane. There is limited space for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. Guests cannot be confined to a wheelchair. There is no storage available for motorized scooters. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible equipment will be required on tour.

Is an alternative or vegetarian meal available?

A chicken or vegetarian option is available upon request when you arrive at the floatplane base.

How many passengers ride in the floatplane together?

There is a maximum of 10 passengers per floatplane. If you have more than 10 passengers in your party, multiple planes will fly at the same time to accommodate your group.

What is the temperature in the floatplane?

The temperature during flight is roughly similar to the ground temperature, and each plane is equiped with heaters if necessary.

Will I get a window seat on the plane?

Yes, all seats on the floatplane have a window view.

Will I see any wildlife or bears on this tour?

Wildlife is abundant in Southeast Alaska and sightings are possible on any tour, however this is not a designated wildlife tour and nothing can be guaranteed.

Are there any age restrictions for children?

There are no age restrictions for this tour.

Can I bring a backpack?

Small bags may be brought along but must be stored in the rear cargo area of the floatplane.

Can I bring my own food or drink?

Non-alcoholic beverages in closeable containers and snacks are allowed on tour.

Are food and drink included?

The highlight of this tour is the freshly prepared meal which is included. Beer and wine are available for purchase by guests 21 years old and over with valid ID.

Are there any physical requirements for this tour?

Guests must be comfortable walking short distances on uneven surfaces. Wheelchair assistance is available upon request.

What type of clothing should I wear?

Layered clothing and water resistant jackets are recommended.

Not seeing answers to your questions?

Check out other frequently asked questions here!

Customer Reviews

Aug 2022 - Christopher D.

Nothing but superlatives for this fabulous three hours. Worth every penny. The flights to and from the Taku Glacier Lodge were comfortable, the salmon dinner at the lodge was superb, and of course the scenery was beyond magnificent. The float plane takeoffs and landings were remarkably smooth. Alaska at its best! Of course, always a risk of cancellation due to weather. That's Alaska, too!

Aug 2022 - Carolyn R.

We have been on many excursions all over the world but this one was by far our favorite. It had adventure, beautiful scenery, delicious food and superb float plane pilots. Would definitely refer this to our friends and given the opportunity would do it again.

Aug 2022 - Melissa G.

The reviews I relied on were on point! This truly was the highlight of our family's trip to Alaska. The plane ride and the views were incredible, the hospitality at the Lodge was amazing, and the whole experience was unforgettable.

Jul 2022 - Margaret M.

What an amazing adventure! Staff were friendly and accommodating and the views were spectacular!!

Jul 2022 - Mike M.

Highly recommend! Views are spectacular! Great experience!!!

Jul 2022 - Heather S.

It was a very easy walk from where the ship docked and was the highlight of our Alaskan Cruise! I cannot say enough good things about the flight or the time we spent at Taku Lodge. You get exactly what they say you are getting. If you are considering this excursion- do it! Phenomenal!

Jun 2022 - Beverly C.

The food was great and the plane ride so much fun!

May 2022 - Cindy S.

This was an amazing adventure. Hank, our pilot, was friendly and very knowledgeable. He graced us with a smooth ride with a beautiful view! The staff at the Taku Lodge were informational as well as so sweet! The salmon dinner was amazing!

Oct 2019 - Robert W.

Absolutely loved this trip. The plane ride could have been 3x as long to satiate my curiosity and loved the smooth flight and narration on the headphones. The lodge was quaint and cozy and meal delicious. The bear visit was a bonus and hiking trails beautiful. Do yourself a favor and book this trip - it was my favorite event from our 2 week visit to the state.

Sep 2019 - Giselle T.

Food was great and tasty! Pilot provided great information and provided excellent customer service. Staff was friendly and concerned that we had a great time. Will definitely visit again

Sep 2019 - Karen H.

This is a must do when you go to Alaska. Very professional and friendly staff. Everything is taken care of. The pilot was exceptional and the meal was lovely. The only thing I would say is that the time was too short at the lodge. But definately well worth the money and a fantastic experience.

Aug 2019 - Jeff S.

We all agreed that this was the highlight of our Alaska trip. Yes, it's on the expensive side but it will be an unforgettable experience.

Aug 2019 - Robert S.

Beyond my expectations. Loved it. Our pilot was great. Food was special.

Jul 2019 - Cynthia T.

Amazing all the way! Incredible flight-seeing sights, Delicious salmon and food. Just a wonderful day all around!

Jun 2019 - Jan B.

Loved the floatplane experience! My friend is a very nervous flyer and almost backed out, but afterwards admitted how thankful she was to have done it and that the flight was so smooth and better than she expected. The views are amazing! The pilots and lodge personnel were all friendly and welcoming. The meal was great too! Highly recommend this unique experience.

Jun 2019 - NORMA C.

The salmon bake was cancelled for us (not enough passengers) but we were able to schedule the glacier flight. This was such a scenic experience, it was the best way to see the beauty of Alaska and the grandness of the glaciers. This was by far my husbands favorite excursion. I would definitely recommend.

Jun 2019 - Rod G.

We went on an alternate excursion and it was a fantastic experience and the whole activity was well planned and organised.

Jun 2019 - Lucy J.

Flight was smooth, the black bears worth the trip. Salmon feast incredible.

Sep 2018 - Dianna M.

First of all, we were very lucky with the weather our whole time in Alaska. With that said, our Taku Glacier excursion was fabulous. Amazing scenery, delicious meal and an incredible staff that are informative and pleasant. Would recommend this tour to everyone in the area. Would do it again next time we are in Alaska.

Aug 2018 - Holmes M.

We thoroughly enjoyed this tour. Sea plane ride was very smooth flight & fantastic views. Lunch was exceptional, well organised & bonus was we got to see a bear. Highly recommend. Thank you Gay & Mark Australia

Aug 2018 - Daniel W.

We had a wonderful time.

Jul 2018 - Jackie B.

Absolutely the BEST excursion I have ever been on!!!! Everyone was so friendly and knowledgeable. We felt so welcome at the lodge and the scenery was fantastic. Highly recommend this excursion!

Jul 2018 - Andrew P.

Unbelievable views from the plane and lodge! The salmon is excellent! This is a must do!

Jul 2018 - Marie And Jay W.

The Taku Glacier Lodge was a lovely destination, and the food was delicious. However, the real highlight of this excursion is the float plane flight to the lodge and returning to Juneau. We enjoyed every minute of it and only wish it could have been longer. With the flight, you get to witness the jaw-dropping natural beauty of Alaska. Gorgeous!

Jun 2018 - GLENN M.

This tour was awesome. Excellent view and narration of the glaciers from the plane. Time at the lodge was fun as you can view a glacier from the front door and take a walk around the property with one of the staff members. The food was good and we got to see a black bear running around the property. An excellent way to do something fantastic during your time in port or if you are in Juneau for other reasons.

Jun 2018 - Christy B.

Amazing excursion. Beautiful views, delicious food and wonderful staff.

May 2018 - Thomas N.

Great experience! Very professional service, food at the lodge was well prepared and flavorful. Added bonus was viewing black bears up close as they policed grill post-cooking. Would recommend to anyone!

Sep 2017 - Bonnie G.

We spent hours pouring over excursions for our cruise to Alaska. As soon as we saw the Juneau Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast and read all the amazing Trip Adviser Reviews we know this was the excursion of a life time. It truly was one of the most memorable experiences we have ever had and will treasure the memories of this day always. From the flight over the glaciers to the amazing salmon feast at Taku lodge and all the staff from the pilot to the cooks we can't say enough to express our gratitude for your professionalism and love for what you do and share with us. Awesome experience !!!!

Jun 2017 - Terri S.

The floatplane over the Juneau ice field provided spectacular views, but the best part was the Taku Lodge! It truly was a feast - the salmon was delicious (and salmon is not usually one of my favorites), and the herbed biscuits were to-die-for. The lodge was peaceful and secluded, and also had awesome scenery. The bear in the grill right outside the window as we ate made the ambience even more unique. This excursion was a definite highlight of our trip!

Jun 2017 - Gretchen R.

This was by far my favorite excursion on our Alaskan Cruise. We had an amazing time. The scenery was spectacular, the food was great, & we did see 2 bears and 2 cubs on our visit!

Aug 2016 - CATHERINE L.

Wonderful time with a surprising and exquisite lunch with bears. Wonderful people who were warmed and took perfectly care of their guests.

Jun 2016 - Frank L.

Fantastic- best excursion on our Alaskian trip. All aspects and people were terrific

Jun 2016 - Candessa P.

Awesome experience! Unforgettable - must do! Special memories w/ my son that will last forever! So glad we got to go.

May 2016 - Scott E.

Terrific experience. Everything was exactly as per the description. The staff were very good and friendly. A very beautiful destination!