Embark on an exhilarating journey soaring above the glaciers, capturing breathtaking photos that are a rarity for many. Glide over the Don Sheldon Amphitheater and admire the mountain roundhouse he constructed on his homestead nestled in the heart of Denali National Park.

Duration

1 Hour 1.5 Hours with Glacier landing

About

The pilots of Sheldon Air Service possess an in-depth knowledge of this vast country and will highlight various sights during your journey, as the landscape gradually transforms through the foothills of the Alaska Range. Each passenger is provided with a headset, allowing for conversation with the pilot throughout the flight.

Denali's immense size makes it seem distant until you soar past the foothills and ascend the Tokositna Glacier. To your left, you'll spot Little Switzerland, a favored spot for both technical climbing adventures and enjoyable day trips.

Next, you will ascend over the Tokositna Glacier as it meanders toward Denali, flying within six miles of the towering summit.

Known affectionately as the 'Tok', this relatively small glacier on the southern route to Denali offers passengers a remarkable perspective on how the stunning landscape of the Alaska Range has shaped ancient glaciers.

After navigating through the 747 pass, you will veer towards the head of the Ruth Glacier and touch down at the Ruth West landing strip.

While flying at the head of the Ruth Glacier, you will be awestruck by the Don Sheldon Amphitheatre, a name bestowed by the National Geographic Society at the recommendation of Bradford Washburn.

You will catch sight of Mooses Tooth, Bear Tooth, and Broken Tooth peaks, which are popular climbing spots located on the far side of the amphitheater.

The Mountain House, constructed in 1966 by Sheldon as a refuge for climbers and a private getaway, remains a sought-after overnight destination. Reservations for the Mountain House can be made up to two years in advance, but you can land and visit the site on any flight, at any time of the year.

To cap off your adventure, you will glide through the breathtaking Ruth Gorge on your return to Talkeetna. Sometimes referred to as the Great Gorge, it plunges a mile deep in certain areas, with the rugged Ruth Glacier forming its floor. Keep an eye out for the stunning pools of bright-blue glacier meltwater.

Arriving at the breathtaking Ruth Amphitheatre, encircled by towering peaks, provides flightseers with a chance to appreciate the grandeur of the landscape and capture stunning photographs of the mountain range. A landing on the glacier extends the flight by an additional thirty minutes, serving as the pinnacle of any flightseeing adventure. During the return journey, the Tokositna River region at the foot of the Alaska Range presents yet another chance to observe moose and bears in their wild environment.

Deposits required