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Denali National Park

Aug 10
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Chasing the Perfect Flight: What Time of Day Is Best?

By Blog, Denali National Park, Flights, Tours, Uncategorized
One of the most common questions we get is what time of day is it best to fly?
There are a lot of answers to that question, but ultimately it truly depends on what you’re looking for, and also what the rest of your itinerary looks like!

We offer the Denali Peak Experience flightseeing tour every two hours from 8AM to 8PM. If you’re an early riser and tend to start your days early, the 8AM flight can’t be beat. This is our first flight of the day and can sometimes also be our busiest. If you’ve got plans in the Park later in the day but are hoping to squeeze in all you possibly can to your Denali experience, this might be the tour for you. The early morning light (even with a midnight sun!) can be a treasure. As we’re now in the early part of July, the sun angle at the 8AM time is about 20-25 degrees above the horizon, offering a unique perspective of the many features of the Alaska Range – including the massive glaciers, the jaw-dropping Wickersham Wall, and all the nooks and crannies of the adjacent peaks. There is so much to take in!

If you’re craving a slower morning with time for a leisurely breakfast, maybe the 10AM flight would suit you better; no rush! The morning light is still nice as it continues to climb to its peak of 50 degrees above the horizon. Plus when you arrive to check in, you’ll have a chance to inquire with the returning 8AM crew who can give you some honest insider info!

Maybe you’ve already got plans in the morning and you’re after a midday adventure. We’ve got you covered on our 12PM and 2PM flights. The sun angle will be highest during these times at 50 degrees above the horizon so it will be the best opportunity for well-lit and bright views of the majestic Alaska Range. And you’ll be back with plenty of time to tack on another afternoon adventure before dinner.

If a late afternoon flight is more your style and you want to avoid the dinner crowds, we can take you up at 4PM and 6PM. By this time, the sun has begun its descent and although it doesn’t get any darker than Civil Twilight during these long summer days, the decreasing sun angle does offer some unique lighting perspectives and perhaps even some hints of alpenglow.

Our last flight time of the day is 8PM. If you’re looking to squeeze in one last adventure, this one is for you! The sun will be dipping down to about 20 degrees, casting some beautiful light on the mountains. Any aspiring photographers out there might love this time of day for the extra contrast, emerging alpenglow, and beautiful shadows cast along the surrounding peaks.

You’ve probably already thought about this by now, but there really is no bad time of day to soar above the Alaska Range on one of our flightseeing tours! These are just some of the finer details to consider when planning your itinerary. If you’ve still got questions, please feel free to reach out. We’re just a phone call away!

 

Feb 01
Love1

Capturing Stunning Photos on Your Denali Flightseeing Adventure

By Blog, Denali National Park, Flights, Uncategorized
Capturing Stunning Photos on Your Denali Flightseeing Adventure
One of the most unforgettable parts of a Denali flightseeing tour is the view of towering peaks, flowing glaciers, and Alaskan landscapes stretching as far as you can see. It’s only natural that you’ll want to capture as much of it as possible. The good news? Our flights make it easy. Every seat is a window seat, and the scenery starts the moment the wheels leave the ground.

We have partnered with our friends and local photography pros at Denali Photo Guides to bring you their top tips for unforgettable photos during your Denali flightseeing tour. Their team spends every day helping guests master the art of outdoor and landscape photography, and we are thrilled to share their expertise with you. While some of the tips below are geared toward guests using DSLR, you can still capture incredible images with your phone. Today’s smartphones perform beautifully in the air, so don’t hesitate to use what you have!

Come Prepared
Before you even board the plane, double-check the basics. Make sure your camera battery is fully charged, and you have plenty of storage available. You don’t want to be fumbling with gear or worse, missing a once-in-a-lifetime shot while the mountains glide by beneath you.

Grab That Window Seat (Hint: You Already Have One!)
Positioning is everything when it comes to aerial photography. Luckily, every seat on our aircraft is a window seat, giving you easy access to the views no matter where you sit.

Minimize Reflections
Wear dark colors: dark brown, midnight blue, anything near black, so that you don’t get glare in the windows. Dark gloves are a bonus. Stay away from white. A white baseball cap will shine like a light. A circular polarizer comes in handy to reduce glare in the glass.

Phone users: circular polarizers are also available for your phone camera.

Keep Your Camera Handy
Once you’re buckled in, keep your camera or device on your lap so it’s ready at a moment’s notice. Things move quickly up there, and the views are too good to miss.

Use a Fast Shutter Speed
If you are shooting with a DSLR, aim for a minimum shutter speed of 1/500th. A shutter speed closer to 1/1000th is ideal to keep your images crisp.

Phone users: your device will adjust automatically-just tap to focus and shoot! This tip comes straight from the Denali Photo Guides team, who know a thing or two about photographing landscapes.

Avoid Touching the Window with Your Lens
Hold your camera or phone slightly away from the glass.  Vibrations from the aircraft can travel straight into your camera, creating blurry images. Plus, camera lenses can scratch our windows, which is something we work hard to keep crystal clear!

Choose the Right Lens
The following recommendations come straight from the Denali Photo Guides crew, who coach guests daily on making the most of whatever gear they bring. For those using interchangeable lenses, a lens in the 24mm—70mm range is great for aerial photography. Ideally, 35mm—50mm shooting out of a plane is spot on. Anything under 35mm you start getting the edges of the plane, and above 70mm, shake becomes amplified unless the technique is impeccable. A lens in this range gives you enough width to capture sweeping landscapes, while still allowing you to zoom in on dramatic peaks or winding glacier patterns.

Phone users: your built-in wide and telephoto lenses will work beautifully, too.

Pan with the Subject
Moving with your subject will enable you to capture a sharper image. If you hold straight and shoot, the plane is still moving a hundred miles an hour which can cause blur. Panning with the subject results in clear photos.

Terry with Denali Photo Guides Ideals
When preparing to shoot aerial photography, Terry’s ideal setup is a full-frame DSLR with a 24mm—70mm 2.8 lens. Shoot at 35mm—50mm for the best images. Set shutter speed at 1/500th minimum, and closer to 1/1000th would be ideal. Aperture setting would be around F8. Terry wouldn’t recommend bringing more than one lens. A 70mm—200mm would be unusable. You will be fighting reflections in the glass. Minimize this by wearing dark clothing and using a circular polarizer.

Shoot Plenty… but Also Look Up

Take lots of photos as you’ll be glad you did, but don’t forget to pause, lower your camera or phone, and simply take in the moment. Some views are best enjoyed with your own eyes.
Ready to experience these breathtaking vistas for yourself?
Bring your camera or phone, a sense of adventure, and the tips from our friends at Denali Photo Guides, and we’ll take care of the rest.

 

 

 

Jan 02
Love1
navajo | Denali Air | Denali Flightseeing

Meet Our Planes: The Heart of Our Flightseeing Fleet

By Blog, Denali National Park, Flights, Tours, Uncategorized

When you join us for a flightseeing adventure, you’re not just stepping into any aircraft, you’re boarding one of the reliable, time-tested planes that form the backbone of our fleet. We’re excited to introduce you to the stars of the show: our Piper Navajos and Piper Chieftains. These twin-engine aircraft are known for their comfort, stability, and excellent performance in Alaska’s rugged and scenic landscapes.

The Piper Navajo: A Classic Built for Reliability

The Piper Navajo, officially designated the PA-31, has a long history of serving travelers and adventurers. First developed in 1964, it was originally created as a corporate and commuter transport aircraft designed to be both versatile and trustworthy. Fun fact: it was initially conceived under the name Inca at the request of company founder William T. Piper.

With its low-wing design and twin turbocharged 310 hp engines, the Navajo delivers dependable performance. We currently operate two of these aircraft, each offering comfortable seating for up to six passengers, perfect for sightseeing tours with stunning views from every seat.

The Piper Chieftain: More Space, More Power

Introduced in 1972, the Piper Chieftain (PA-31-350) builds on everything people loved about the Navajo, with a little extra. This model features an extended fuselage that adds two additional feet of space. Under the hood, its two turbocharged 350 hp engines provide added power that is ideal for soaring above Denali’s vast wilderness.

We also operate two Chieftains in our fleet, each configured to comfortably seat up to eight passengers.

Why These Aircraft Are Perfect for Denali

Both the Navajo and Chieftain are purpose-built for the kind of flying we do every day. They are stable, powerful, and designed for exceptional visibility. Their twin engines offer an added level of safety and performance.

So, the next time you set off on a flightseeing tour with us, you’ll know a little more about the aircraft carrying you over braided rivers, glaciers, and up to the towering peaks of Denali. Reliable, comfortable, and full of history…just the way we like them.

 

 

 

air strip | Denali Air | Denali Flightseeing
sunrise | Denali Air | Denali Flightseeing
Sunset from the Hanger Roof | Denali Air | Denali Flightseeing
Nov 21
Love1
Denali Air | Denali Flightseeing

Tips for Flying with Kids

By Blog, Denali National Park, Flights, Tours, Uncategorized
Bringing Kids on a Denali Flightseeing Tour
Seeing Denali from the air is an unforgettable experience-jagged peaks, braided rivers, and tumbling glaciers carving through valleys. For kids, flying above the heart of Alaska is a story they will tell for years. Some might just walk away inspired to become a pilot one day. If you’re considering a family tour, here’s what you need to know.
Are Kids Allowed?
Absolutely! Children of all ages are welcome on our flightseeing tours. If your child can sit comfortably for the duration of the flight and wear a headset, they’ll do great. Children under age 2-years are lap babies and are free of charge; a lap baby does not get his/her own seat.  Children aged 2-12 qualify for a reduced fare. Our pilots are experienced with young passengers and happy to help everyone feel at ease.
What to Expect
Small aircraft offer an incredible opportunity to see the landscape up close. For kids, highlights might include:
  • Seeing glaciers that stretch for miles
  • Towering view of Denali and the Alaska Range
  • Spotting trails, lakes and the occasional wildlife
  • Feeling like part of the adventure

Helpful Tips for Families

  • Dress in layers to help kids stay comfortable.
  • Make it interactive: Encourage kids to look for glaciers, rivers, and possible wildlife.
  • Headset practice: Try having them wear headphones at home first so they will be comfortable wearing them on the flight. 
  • Plan flight times around naps.
Safety Comes First
Safety is our top priority. You can expect:
  • A pre-flight briefing
  • Proper seating accommodations for every child
  • Headsets for hearing protection
  • Highly trained, experienced Alaska pilots
A Memory You’ll Treasure
We consistently hear that our flightseeing tours are one of the most unforgettable parts of a guest’s trip. Experiencing it also through the eyes of your child can be downright magical and will provide an experience they will never forget.
So bring your kids and your cameras! The memories will last long after you’re back on the ground. 
Just a heads up! These photos aren’t from our official flightseeing tours – they’re snapshots of our owner taking his family (and beloved pets) for a spin. Think of them as “family album” moments, not tour previews. And don’t worry…your kids will love the flight just as much as his do! 

 

May 02
Love1

Life at Denali Air

By Denali National Park, Flights, Tours, Uncategorized

It’s almost time to start the 2018 tour season and we’re getting pretty excited: summer life in Denali is an absolute blast, and we always look forward to meeting new friends and reuniting with old ones. We love our guests, too — at Denali Air we meet people from all over the world, and it’s super fun to hear what brought them to our neck of the woods.

We get a lot of questions from our guests about what it’s like to live and work in Denali. People often wonder about what day-to-day life is like, where we live, and what we do for fun. We love to share, so we decided to make this blog post all about what it’s like to live as a seasonal employee at Denali Air.

Denali Air is a family-owned business, so one unique aspect of life on the Denali Air campus is sharing space with two young kids and their golden retriever, Mac.  If you are wondering why you see a couple of big wheels, a small basketball hoop and a friendly dog outside of our office, now you know!

The first question most people ask is, “Where do you live?” Denali is a seasonal town that’s booming during the summer, but it shuts down completely during the winter. For that reason, you won’t see apartment complexes or a residential district when you arrive in Denali, and most seasonal employees live in housing provided by their employers. Denali Air employees (along with employees of The Black Bear Coffee Shop*) live on-site in one-room dry cabins right next to the airstrip. You might even see a cabin or two when your airplane takes off!

Most of the cabins are tucked into a small forested area that’s connected by a boardwalk path or well-trod trail. At the center of “camp” (as we like to call it) is a large log cabin we call the cookshack. Employees that live at Denali Air eat all their meals in the cookshack, and lunch and dinner are prepared everyday by an amazing cook. (Shout out to our cook Morgan Smith who’s been holding down the cookshack for us for the last few years — she’s AMAZING.)

Beyond the cookshack is a shared bathroom and shower facility (with shared cleaning duties, everyone’s absolute favorite part about living at Denali Air…), and a stand of trees that extends to the George Parks highway. In front of the cookshack, there’s a fire pit and a large area for lawn games, barbecues, and even an occasional yoga session. It’s a lot like adult summer camp! The lawn is adjacent to the airstrip, and most of us thoroughly enjoy sitting outside and watching the planes take off. If you see us during your taxi, wave! We love that, too. 

Each year Denali Air becomes home to new staff who are trying out Alaska for the first time, and returning staff always look forward to coming back to a place that feels like home, and reuniting with friends who feel like family.

There you have it! Hope this helped you get to know us a little better and gave you at least a small glimpse of one of the reasons so many of us come back to Denali year after year — there really is no place like it.

 

*We’ve absolutely got to make a special plug for The Black Bear Coffee Shop — it’s our fave, and we feel so lucky that we get to live with the people that keep Denali visitors and locals happy and caffeinated. You’ll find Black Bear on the boardwalk in the heart of Denali’s business district, and at Black Bear you’ll find coffee prepared by skilled baristas, baked goodies from Denali’s finest bakers, and an incredible menu of amazing breakfast, lunch, and dinner options crafted by incredible cooks from across the country. The best part is: it’ll all come with great service and a smile from Black Bear’s exceptional staff, who are just genuinely nice people (which, of course, is why we’re so happy we get to share housing with them). Make a visit to Black Bear while you’re in town, you’ll be happy you did.

Mac's Favorite Cookshack | Denali Air | Denali Flightseeing
Apr 18
Love0
polychromes | Denali Air | Denali Flightseeing

Denali by Air: Helicopter or Airplane?

By Denali National Park, Flights, Tours

Summer is just around the corner, and if you’ve got a trip to Denali planned, that probably means you’re finalizing your itineraries and booking excursions.  Many visitors to Alaska find that their flightseeing tour was the highlight of their entire trip.But there are a lot of incredible tour experiences available in Denali, and it can be hard to choose the ones that are right for you, especially when it comes to flightseeing. Since comparing flight tours in Denali can be difficult, and since the choice often comes down to airplanes versus helicopters, we decided to line-out some of the differences in between our Peak Experience Tour and the helicopter tour into the National Park.  Over the years, we have maintained a friendly relationship with the helicopter operator in Denali. We refer passengers who absolutely want the experience of riding in a helicopter.  And they refer to us passengers who want the most comprehensive aerial tour of Denali.

Denali Air Peak Experience Tour

  • Focused on circumnavigating Denali (Mt. McKinley), weather permitting
  • Potential viewing of Denali from within half mile of the mountain face
  • Traverses the Alaska Range from the park entrance to Denali, approximately 80 miles 
  • 200 miles, round trip
  • 60+ minute tour, 99.9% over Denali National Park
  • Gives you a unique perspective of the beautiful landscapes of the National Park that you are likely to see on the bus tour
  • Twin-engine Piper Navajo aircraft allow pilots to navigate around clouds and weather
  • 6-8 seat aircraft, all seats are windows seats 
  • $399 per adult, $205 for children under 12

Denali Helicopter Excursion

  • Focused on viewing Denali National Park
  • On a clear day, potential Denali viewing occurs from a distance of approximately 50 miles from the mountain face
  • 35 minute tour 
  • 6 seat aircraft with middle seat assignments
  • $411 per adult

So there you have it! We sincerely believe that you can’t go wrong no matter what tour you chose (though of course we’re a tiny bit biased toward our own), and all the flight-tour vendors in the area offer safe, incredible options. If you have questions or would like more information about our tours, give us a call or send us an email. There’s no experience in the world quite like flightseeing in Denali, and we’d love to help you pick the excursion that’s right for you.