ShoreTrips says...

Seeing glaciers from the air is an Alaskan MUST DO, and doing so by authentic Alaskan bush plane is the quintessential Alaskan experience! The Taku River will be your "runway" as you land at the historic Taku Lodge, built in 1923 and located across the river from the five-mile wide Taku Glacier, Juneau’s largest glacier and one of only a few advancing glaciers in the world.

Your journey begins with the excitement of taking off on water. A floatplane is a unique experience and seems to glide effortlessly from the water's surface right into the air. It will take but a few moments for the Port of Juneau to disappear before your eyes.

Flying in a classic deHavilland seaplane, you'll be mesmerized at the sight of five breathtaking glaciers flowing from the Juneau Icefield, deep blue crevasses, snowcapped mountains, and the lush Tongass National Forest. It is an unforgettable sight and before long you will feel the plane descending as it follows along the Taku River.

Immediately, a calm will overtake you as you climb down the short ladder and enter a different world. As you gaze across the river, your eyes will fall upon the Taku Glacier, seemingly close enough to touch. The hub of activity is centered around the main lodge, where the home fire is always burning--and you are made to feel like an old friend.

You'll have some time to wander around the grounds and pet the friendly resident dogs. Relax and breathe in the clean, oxygen-rich Alaska air. It's about this time that you begin to understand the magic that has lured so many to this beautiful area.

In a short while, a fabulous meal will be laid out for you and you can indulge as much as you wish. Savor a feast of Fresh Wild Alaska Salmon grilled to perfection, a chicken alternative, Taku baked beans, coleslaw, pioneer fruit compote, and fresh herb biscuits and sourdough bread, all made from scratch. (Brunch will be served to guests on the 9 a.m. departure.) Drinks are chilled and served with actual glacier ice and special-recipe ginger cookies complete the meal.

The scrumptious aroma of the alderwood grill attracts not only daily visitors, but also wild black bears. While not guaranteed, approximately 85% of our guests do see bears. Take a guided interpretative nature walk, stroll the trails, or soak in the serenity of a place barely touched by time before your return flight to Juneau.

You will be on land for about 2 hours and in the air for 30 minutes on your way out and 20 minutes on the return flight. Whatever the weather, be prepared, as it changes just as fast as you blink!

This floatplane to the great wilderness is why you came to Alaska. Remember, you can cancel if you change your mind, but you will never secure space if you decide at the last minute!