Adventure Collective
null - Fairbanks

Backcountry Photo Excursion by Helicopter

Denalichallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate fitness, able to handle short walks and sitting in a helicopter seat for extended periods.

Overview

Discover the raw beauty of Alaska from above with this exclusive helicopter photography tour in Denali. Perfect for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts, it offers access to remote backcountry locations and stunning vistas sure to inspire your creativity.

Air Activities
Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Backcountry Photo Excursion by Helicopter

4 Hours • Endless Mountains!

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

Backcountry Photo Excursion by Helicopter photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the breathtaking wilderness of Alaska on a unique helicopter-access photography excursion. With only four participants, you'll soar to a remote mountain peak, capturing stunning landscapes and learning photography techniques from a professional guide. Enjoy over two hours of exploration on the rugged tundra, creating unforgettable memories amidst nature's beauty.

Discover true wilderness and capture epic vistas of endless mountains!

With only 10% of the entire state of Alaska accessible by road, we are proud to offer a premier helicopter-access photography excursion. Soar to a peak in the Alaska Range where you will land in a remote location with 360° views! With a maximum of 4 participants per tour, this is a unique opportunity to experience the untouched wilderness of Denali and to compose the perfect shot. You will be flown with your guide and land on the rolling tundra of the Alaska Range where you will have over 2 hours for exploration and personalized photo instruction. The landing area is broad and offers the opportunity for walking around, or the more adventurous traveler may hike up the ridgeline.

Please be prepared, there are no trails and the tundra is uneven terrain which can be challenging. Comfortable and supportive shoes are recommended. There will not be comfortable places to sit for the duration of the excursion and the helicopter may be challenging to get in and out of.

Details

  • The main focus of this tour is landscape photography with sweeping vistas.
  • Your flight will be about 15 minutes roundtrip.
  • The helicopter pilot will drop you off with your photography guide on a mountain ridgeline and return to pick you up about 2.5 hours later.
  • Wildlife sightings are not common on this tour, but it is possible to see caribou and sheep. Your guide will be prepared with the proper safety equipment and you will receive a wildlife safety briefing.
  • Late June through mid-July is prime wildflower season in the high alpine.

Cameras

The best camera is the one you have! Our tour is designed to benefit all skill levels with any type of camera. No matter what gear you have, our guides will be able to help you progress as a photographer.

Beginners will learn techniques to get more out of their equipment; how to read light and adjust their exposure settings to photograph Alaska’s stunning scenery in a way that “does it justice.”

Advanced photographers will enjoy being shown the best locations and working with a professional photographer.

Our Promise

Safety and quality of experience are our top priorities. We want you to feel assured that you will have a good experience. This tour will only operate in fair weather. We work closely with the helicopter pilots to obtain the best information about the conditions for safety and photography. If we don't think the tour will be high quality, we will try to reschedule or offer you a refund.

Please read our policies in full here.

Flight Safety

We charter TEMSCO Helicopters to fly us into the backcountry. Your safety is their top priority. TEMSCO Helicopters have been flying in Alaska since 1958. TEMSCO Helicopters is a TOPS operator, which means they hold the highest safety standards, exceeding those of the FAA.

What to Bring

  • Weather can change quickly in Denali so bring an extra layer and a raincoat.
  • Comfortable & sturdy shoes are recommended - there will be walking on variable terrain. There are no trails, and the tundra is uneven which can be challenging.
  • Don't forget your camera, lenses, and extra battery!
  • We provide tripods & filters.
  • In an effort to reduce waste, please bring your own reusable water bottle and your own snacks.

Notes

  • Activity level is moderate.
  • There will not be comfortable places to sit for the duration of the excursion.
  • The helicopter may be challenging to get in and out of.
  • This tour has a 2-person minimum to operate.
  • Digital cameras with long zoom lenses are available to rent, and you keep the memory card.
  • The only bathrooms on this tour are at the helicopter landing pad.
  • For more information, please see our FAQs.

Transportation

Transportation is provided to and from all Denali area hotels.

Duration

  • 3.5 to 4 hours
  • Includes round trip flight time of approximately 15 minutes, pre-trip safety briefing & gear assessment, and about 2.5 hours on the mountain.
  • The start time may be changed for optimal conditions. Take-off is scheduled for 11:20 am and return to the helipad is scheduled for 2:35 pm.

Availability

This tour operates May 21 – August 21.

Payment

A 20% refundable deposit must be made at the time of booking. The balance will be processed 3 days before the tour. If the tour does not operate due to weather or because the tour minimum is not met, your payment will be refunded. Cancellations made less than 3 days in advance of the tour will not be refunded.

This tour can be booked privately!

Adventure Tips

Arrive early for optimal lighting

Morning hours usually provide softer light and fewer clouds, perfect for capturing clear landscape shots.

Bring versatile lens options

A wide-angle lens is ideal for landscapes, while a telephoto helps capture distant wildlife and mountain details.

Secure your camera gear

Use straps and lens caps to protect your equipment during the helicopter flight and while on rugged terrain.

Dress warmly and in layers

Temperatures can vary widely, especially at different altitudes; layering ensures comfort throughout the trip.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Dall sheep
  • Bald eagles

History

Denali has been inhabited by Alaska Native communities for thousands of years and was originally called Mount McKinley before being renamed in 2015.

Conservation

Denali National Park emphasizes preserving its natural landscapes and wildlife, promoting responsible tourism and sustainability practices.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Fairbanks

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Camera with wide-angle lens

Essential

Ideal for capturing sweeping landscape shots of Alaska's vast wilderness.

Extra batteries and memory cards

Essential

Necessary for ensuring you can shoot throughout the day without running out of power or storage.

Warm, layered clothing

Essential

Keeping warm is crucial for comfort during cold weather and extended exposure outdoors.

winter specific

Sturdy hiking boots

Essential

Provides stability and support during brief ground exploration and hikes.