Denali Air Flightseeing Tours - Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

CoachSingleton

Denali Air (5 Stars)
This was almost a last-minute decision. Initially, I hadn’t planned on taking the flightseeing tour because it seemed too expensive when I was organizing the trip. However, on the way from the train station, our driver had to pick someone up from the “Glitter Gulch” area who had just taken the tour. They highly recommended it, so it got me thinking. After checking in at our hotel, I noticed the Denali Air van parked outside the office. It felt like a sign, so I called them as soon as we got to our room. They had availability the next day at noon. When I gave my phone number to the young lady on the phone, she asked, “Where in Utah are you from?” It turns out her family lives just a few blocks from where we lived for almost 20 years! I also asked if they offered a military discount, which saved me $80.
They picked us up right on time from our resort, and we headed to the airstrip, which was conveniently close. I asked the driver if he knew where we could find contact lens solution, as my wife had forgotten hers. He suggested trying Sled Dog Liquor and Grocery in “Glitter Gulch” or Three Bears Groceries in Healy, though that one was a bit farther away.
Check-in was smooth, and we were divided into two groups. Our pilot, Bob, was fantastic—funny, informative, and an excellent pilot. Our group had seven people, and the other group had six. We flew in a twin-engine Beechcraft, which I was relieved about since I avoid flying in single-engine planes. Bob took us on an incredible journey around Mt. McKinley, now known as Denali, making sure everyone had the chance to see and take pictures of the breathtaking views. The weather was perfect with clear blue skies, and they even provided sunglasses if you forgot yours (though we didn’t need them). The flight lasted about 90 minutes, covering 100 miles there and 100 miles back, plus time circling the mountain. There were some bumps along the way, as you’d expect in a small plane flying over mountains and valleys, but Bob (with one “O”) did an excellent job minimizing them with his skilled piloting.
My recommendation: This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you don’t do it on your first trip, you’ll find yourself coming back just to experience it later.

Jodi Scholz

What an amazing experience - far exceeded our expectations!!! Our pilot was fantastic and the staff overall were very friendly and helpful. The absolute best way to see Denali. 1000% recommend!!! Thank you Denali Air!!

Jonathan Whitesides

I took the two (2) hour Denali-Air circumference flight. It was incredible. To experience Denali the from the air is “ah” inspiring, and overwhelming.

The approach to Denali is almost poetic…starting in low-elevation plains and river valleys of taiga forest, which transition into high alpine tundra, and gradually elevates to jagged granite snowy mountains. Climaxing with the grandeur and magnitude of Denali’s snowy glaciated cliffs and peaks.

Chris was our pilot. He did a great job. Chris is a steady handed pilot, who had great knowledge of the area, and a fun attitude.

Go/Book with confidence!

Amanda Kolpitcke

This tour was one of the highlights of our 2 weeks in Alaska. We initially scheduled our flight for our first of three days in Denali. The weather didn't cooperate the first two days, but Denali Air was very flexible and allowed us to reschedule twice. Finally on our last day in Denali, we were able to get up in the air. It was 1000% worth the wait. Our pilot, Dan (who was amazing), flew us low over the park landscape to see the beautiful fall colors, glaciers, and even some wildlife from the air. After 10-20 minutes we broke through the low-lying clouds to see Denali towering over us. It was one of the most surreal moments in my life. Dan flew us right up next to the mountain - so much closer than I was expecting! He even did multiple passes so that people on both sides of the plane had a front row view. So thankful we did this trip as it was the only time we saw the mountain due to low-lying clouds all week. If you are in Denali, this is a must-do!

TIP Book this trip at the beginning of your stay in Denali. If bad weather rolls in, it will give you the best chance to reschedule.

Sam LeVon

Flying with Dan around Mt Denali was a highlight of our trip to Alaska! Amazing, breathtaking views of the mountain and Denali NP. Dan makes you feel at ease if you aren't used to flying in small planes, and his knowledge of all facets of the area is excellent. He knew all the wildlife, plant life, mountain climbing history and routes, and more. Great experience!

Tammy Stelnicki

I booked my flight with Denali Air the day before on a whim, and it completely made my trip! We were able to fly around the tip of Mt. Denali, and see every glacier, peak, river and sun-cup along the way. The pilot (Bob, with one O) was extremely informational, and led a beautiful tour with expert commentary. He was thoughtful and made sure each side of the plane was able to view every sight with artful turns. The ride was smooth, and very few bumps, smooth takeoff, and easy landing. The plane held 7 people total including the Pilot, and everyone was amazed at the day. 15/10 would recommend!!! Outstanding service, ease of booking (less than five minutes), and hospitality at arrival and departure in their building. Loved loved loved!

I did a similar tour in Nepal with Buddha Air to see Mt. Everest in 2018, and although great...this one BLEW IT OUT OF THE WATER!!!!

Bob Roberts

Had a great time and amazing views of Denali you would not be able to see from the ground. Dan was a seasoned pilot and definitely knows what he is doing up there. Great experience and breathtaking views.

Shannon MacDonald

What a great experience. When we first chose Alaska and talked about Denali one of the thing's I said I had no interest in flying over Denali in a small plane. Why? because I have vertigo and I didn't want to cause an episode. My family talked me into it and was so glad I did!!! That is by far the best way to see Denali! We we were lucky, we booked the day of and the staff was awesome. Very accommodating and really friendly. Pilot Bob (with one O) was so great! Knowledgeable, friendly, and amazingly the ride was pretty smooth. I didn't get sick, so there's that. If you go to Denali definitely go to these guys for any flightseeing you might want to do. You aren't going to see Denali any better.