flightseeing tour of denali

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• Kahiltna Base Camp

Mount Hunter

Don sheldon amphitheater, ruth glacier, the great gorge.

Over time, the Ruth Glacier has carved into the surrounding granite to create these picturesque stone walls up to 5,000 ft (1,524 m) above the glacier’s surface.

Muldrow Glacier

• Wickersham Wall

Mount Foraker

Denali’s west buttress, denali grand tour, denali grand flightseeing tour, see "the great one".

$430 Per Person | 1.5 Hours

DENALI GRAND WITH GLACIER LANDING

See "the great one" with a glacier landing.

$555 Per Person | 2 Hours

QUICK DETAILS

User AGES: Rec. for Ages 8+

Clock DURATION:

• Denali Grand Tour:   1.5 Hours
• Denali Grand Tour with Glacier Landing: 2 Hours

See All Sides of Denali!

This route includes the Denali Experience and Flyer routes, letting you see all sides of “The Great One”. You’ll get an in-depth look at the routes used by Denali’s first pioneers, including the nearly 14,000 ft (4000 m) Wickersham Wall. Gaze down on Kahiltna Pass, and the Peters, Muldrow, and Traleika Glaciers far below. This tour is not recommended for children under 8 years old.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Denali’s West Buttress
• Denali’s North Face
• Pioneer Ridge
• Mount Tatum, Carpe, and Karstens
• Peters, Muldrow, and Traleika Glaciers
• Expansive views into Interior Alaska

DENALI GRAND TOUR WITH GLACIER LANDING

Explore the denali skyline with a glacier landing.

This is your opportunity for a once in a lifetime experience to stand on a glacier in the heart of Denali National Park. Depending on the weather conditions, as part of your flight tour, your pilot will touch down on the Ruth Glacier in the Sheldon Amphitheater for a truly awesome view of Denali and the sister peaks. Enjoy the stillness of the mountains and lay your tracks in the pristine snow. As you stand surrounded by the glacier draped granite peaks, you’ll understand the immense scale of this special place.

DENALI GRAND TOUR:

Adult (ages 13+):  $430, child (ages 3 – 12):  $380, denali grand tour with glacier landing:, adult (ages 13+):  $555, child (ages 3 – 12):  $505, additional information.

• Chevron down What's Included
• Loaner sunglasses if you forget
• Glacier Boots (Glacier Landing Tour Only)
• Chevron down What to Bring
• Winter Coat, Hat & Gloves (in the winter)
• Camera (be sure to charge your batteries before your flight; you won’t want to forget this experience!)
• Chevron down How to Dress

We suggest you layer your clothing; it’s easy to pull layers off. A light jacket is usually suitable during the summer. For the colder seasons, we suggest a mid-weight jacket, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and sunglasses.

• Chevron down Denali National Park Pass

Glacier Landing Tours Only:

All glacier landing tours require a Denali National Park pass for all passengers 16 years old and above. You can purchase your pass in the office the day of your travel.

• Chevron down Deposits

Deposits for all trips are fully refundable for cancellation due to weather. Cancellations within 48 hours will result in forfeiture of deposit.

• Chevron down Tour Times

We have many departures throughout the day for both glacier and non-glacier landings! We are open 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Click on one of the calendar dates or ‘Book Now’ buttons to see all available tour departure times.

PHOTO GALLERY

FLIGHT ROUTE MAP

Click the map to view the full size image

TESTIMONIALS

Once in a lifetime.

“Chris was an excellent pilot and tour guide. We were fortunate to see Denali. The glacier landing was a once in a lifetime experience. My granddaughter loved playing in the snow. Definitely a highlight of our trip to Alaska!”

– Deb A. | TripAdvisor

TRULY AWE-INSPIRING

“Such an amazing experience and something I will never forget! Our pilot knew so much history and happily answered questions we had while in the air. K2 made me feel safe, would definitely do again. Thank you K2!”

– Jill H. | TripAdvisor

WOULD GIVE 10 STARS!

“Hands down, the best tour EVER! We took the Grand Denali tour last week and the scenery was spectacular and seriously life-changing. I’m so thankful that there is such a reputable and “on the ball” company that provides such tours. Well worth every penny!”

– April C. | TripAdvisor

WONDERFUL TRIP

“The experience and the glacier landing/Denali summit view was absolutely breathtaking, and our Pilot was very experienced and super helpful answering our questions. Would highly recommend this on your Alaska trip!”

– Yu W. | TripAdvisor

OTHER GREAT FLIGHTS

• Users All Ages
• Clock 1 hour

Denali Experience Flightseeing Tour

This route is the foundation for all of our Denali flightseeing tours. Fly up to six miles (10 km) from Denali’s summit, then descend into the awe-inspiring Ruth Amphitheater and Great Gorge. View the Tokositna and Ruth Glaciers, and Mount Huntington. Book online!

• Most Popular
• Clock 1.25 hours

Denali Flyer

View everything in the Denali Experience tour, as well as the stunning views of the 45-mile-long Kahiltna Glacier. Pass by Little Switzerland, Kahiltna Base Camp, and the formidable east face of Mount Foraker. Book your K2 aviation Denali flyer tour online today!

• Users Ages 13+
• Clock 2 Hours

Top of the World Tour

Fly to incredible altitudes for dramatic summit views of Denali, Mount Foraker, and Mount Hunter. See historic climbing routes, and learn about the geography of the Alaska Range. Discover how glaciers and weathering carve the surrounding mountains, all with a bird’s eye view of Denali National Park. Book online!

• Most Popular

Denali Peak Experience Flight

Experience The Best And Most Comprehensive Views Of Denali National Park As You Circumnavigate "The High One"!

Quick Details

Availability: May – September

Flight Tour Time: 70 mins (shuttle/drive time not included)

Inclusions: Complimentary shuttle and experienced pilot commentary

Child, Under 12 years

Fly with the original flightseeing company in denali for a thrilling and inspiring flight around the highest point in north america..

Of all the flight tours in Alaska, this one provides the best and most comprehensive views of Denali (formerly Mt. McKinley). Each flight path is unique on these Denali tours. Weather permitting, each tour will take you on a stunning 200-mile flight up to, around, and within 1/2 miles of Denali.  Our clients often recall, “I felt like I could reach out and touch it!”  From takeoff to landing, the breathtaking views will have you on the edge of your seat.

Our company has been operating flightseeing tours to Denali for more than 40 years.  Highly experienced pilots, averaging over 10,000 hours in flight time will use their skills and knowledge to guide you to the best views in Denali.  Aircraft depart from a private airstrip in the middle of the Alaska Range – NOT Talkeetna, and NOT Healy. This special departure point allows for easy access to both sides of the range, as flights can meander back and forth along the spine to allow for better visibility. All seats are window seats on a twin-engine, Piper Navajo and Chieftain aircraft that seat six and eight passengers, respectively. The entire flight is professionally narrated (pre-recorded, pilot supplemented) via individual one-way headsets.  Experience 60-70 minutes of flight time; optional shuttle transport is approximately 15 minutes each way for your Denali flight.

You’ll See: braided rivers, wildly colorful ridgelines, and velvety tundra-covered valleys as you climb towards pristine snow-covered peaks and tumbling icefalls en route to the Mountain. As you near Denali, you will thread between snowy alpine peaks, such as Mount Mather, Silverthrone and Mount Huntington. You’ll be flying at an optimal altitude that will give you the best perspective of the sheer size of the mountains of the Denali Massif.

Related Adventures

• Clock 70 mins (including 20mins on the glacier - does NOT include transport time)
• Calendar May - September

Helicopter Glacier Expedition

Launch above the rolling tundra and venture above the rugged Alaska Range as you make your way to the massive Yanert ice-field.

• Clock 100 mins (including time on the glacier)

Denali Park Glacier Landing

The only glacier landing experience offered from the Denali National Park entrance area!

• 01 Flight Training
• 02 Flightseeing
• 03 Charters & Air Taxi
• 04 Our Services
• 05 Our Fleet
• 06 About Us
• 09 Contact Us

Denali Flightseeing Tour

Denali Flightseeing

The tallest mountain in north america.

Fly with us to Denali, North America’s tallest mountain. We offer an aerial expedition around the mountain.

Experience the majesty of North America’s tallest mountain from the perspective of a lifetime.

Take to the skies on a Denali flightseeing tour.

What to expect on our denali air tour..

2 Guests Minimum

Palmer Airport 720 E Yukon St

$350 Per Person

Join us on an unforgettable journey to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Denali, the tallest mountain in North America. Our Denali Flightseeing Tour takes you on an aerial expedition around the mountain for an experience you won’t forget. No matter what time of the year you take a tour with us, you will be able to witness the towering, snow covered, peaks of the Alaska Range.

Our pilots will provide insightful commentary on the natural wonders you are observing, making this an educational and memorable experience. Join us for the ultimate adventure of a lifetime on our Denali Flightseeing Tour.

Situated in the heart of the Alaska Range, Denali offers a dramatic backdrop of soaring peaks and sweeping vistas. Our experienced pilots will navigate a route that will provide you with the best possible views of Denali, the surrounding mountains, and Denali National Park’s stunning landscapes.

Fun fact: Denali is technically taller than Everest. The standard method of measuring mountains uses height from sea level. Using that method, Everest measures 29,032 feet (8,848.86 meters) above sea level. Denali measures 20,194 feet (6,190 meters) above sea level. Now, this is where it gets tricky. Denali’s base sits at 2,000 feet above sea level, whereas Everest’s base sits at 14,000 feet above sea level. This does, however, confirm that everything is bigger in Alaska — that’s how that saying goes, right?

Depart from the general aviation airport in Palmer, Alaska (PAAQ). The airport is situated in the heart of the valley, with 360 degree views showcasing three of Alaska’s most beautiful mountain ranges. Upon takeoff, keep an eye out for two braided, glaciated rivers below

You will depart from PAAQ to the North. Traveling up the Matanuska-Susitna Valley and along the Talkeetna mountains into the Alaska Range and Denali National Park.

Upon reaching the Alaska Range, you will follow the Ruth glacier into the Don Sheldon Amphitheater to witness the sheer rock walls covered in ice and snow. At this point you will be maneuvering near the base of the Denali for once in a lifetime views.

Pointers & Packing List

We’ll lead the way, pack a snack.

We recommend packing a light snack for your Alaska Denali tour experience. You are welcome to bring a small bag on the trip.

Dress in layers

For your Alaska plane tour, we recommend dressing in layers and wearing comfortable clothing suitable for the weather conditions.

Shades are a must

Clouds and snow reflect a lot of light from the sun. While you can take them off for viewing, we recommend bringing a pair of quality sunglasses so you don’t have to squint against the glare or snow.

Take some photos

Don’t forget to bring your phone or a good camera. You will want to remember these views!

Book your Denali Flightseeing tour today

Any questions, what type of aircraft will be used for our denali tour.

Our  fleet consists of a Cessna 172 (3 guests)  and a Cessna 206 (5 guests). Each plane is well maintained and equipped with large windows for the best visibility we can offer to our guests.

How close will we get to Denali during the tour?

Our experienced pilots will navigate the aircraft to provide you with the best possible views of Denali and the surrounding mountains while ensuring a safe and comfortable flight experience.

Why should we take a Denali Flightseeing tour from Palmer?

Palmer, Alaska is centrally located. Departing from PAAQ provides guests with the opportunity to see more along the way. Your flight will be around 2.5hrs long, and you will witness several mountain ranges, braided rivers, and Alaskan wilderness areas along the route.

Is the Denali flightseeing tour suitable for all ages?

Yes! The Denali flightseeing tour is suitable for all ages, offering an exciting and memorable experience for the whole family. Children under the age of 2-years are free. Please note the child must ride on an adult’s lap. We request advance notice of all passengers that will be on the flight, including lap babies. 

Cancellation Policy

Standard Cancellation Policy: Our standard cancellation policy is designed to provide a fair balance between flexibility and operational considerations. Our policy follows a refund system based on the timing and circumstances of your cancellation:

Early Cancellation (90 days or more before the flight) Receive a 100% refund as a token of our appreciation for your early notice, allowing us the opportunity to accommodate other clients.

Late Cancellation (within 14 days of the flight): Unfortunately, no refund can be provided due to the limited time available for reallocating resources and finding alternative clients.

Weather-related Cancellations: In the event of adverse weather conditions, we prioritize your safety and enjoyment. If we must cancel a flight due to weather, you will receive credit for another booking or a full 100% refund.

Please note: Deposits become non-refundable if a cancellation is made within 14 days prior to the flight.

Your satisfaction and safety are our top priorities, and we strive to provide a seamless experience while addressing your individual needs. If you have any questions or require clarification regarding our cancellation policy, please do not hesitate to contact Blue River Aviation. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be more than happy to assist you.

▷ The 5 Best Denali Flightseeing Tours [2024 Reviews]

Denali is simply one of the most magical places in the world. If you’re looking for untouched natural beauty, it’s hard to find a more intriguing place than this part of Alaska.

However, there’s simply too much to see in one trip if traveling by land. If you want to get some of the best views of the park, we highly recommend going on a flight tour.

We’ve done our research to bring you the top flight tours of Denali National Park available that will be worth your time and money!

Be sure to see our reviews of Denali Park ATV Tours .

Best Flight Tours of Denali Park

Quick answer: the 5 best rated flight tours of denali park for 2024.

• Denali 1-Hour Flight Experience From Talkeetna
• Grand Denali Flight with Optional Glacier Landing From Talkeetna
• Denali Southside Explorer Scenic Air Tour From Talkeetna
• Denali 75-Minute Flight Experience From Talkeetna 
• Grand Denali Flight Tour with Optional Glacier Landing From Talkeetna

Denali National Park Flightseeing Tour Reviews

1. denali 1-hour flight experience from talkeetna.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Departure: Corner of E 2nd Street and South Terminal Way
• Departure Time: Variety Available
• Includes: W indow seat, h eadsets to hear the pilot guide, w elcome coffee, tea, or cocoa, o verboots provided for glacier landing (if option selected)

First up, we bring you the Talkeetna: Denali Sightseeing Flight Experience . Lasting 1 to 1.5 hours (depending on traffic, weather, and other circumstances), it’s super easy to fit into just about any schedule. Limited to just 10 participants, you can count on a personalized experience with the ability to learn from an experienced guide/pilot.

Meet at the tour start location, and meet with your guide/pilot who will get you acquainted with the aircraft and fill you in on any safety information. Before you fly, they’ll welcome you with a delicious, warm beverage like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

Sip on it by the lodge-style office fireplace. It feels like you’re hanging out at a friend’s house and is the perfect way to start off the tour. You’ll watch a brief-yet-comprehensive flight video in the office theater which will give you a good idea of what to expect and answer any questions you may have.

Expand To See More See Less

After you watch, follow your pilot to the aircraft and sit down in a window seat. Before taking off, your pilot will conduct a safety check, check your microphones, and make sure you can hear them well on your headset.

Then, you’re off toward the Alaska Range! You’ll first fly over the stunning Susitna Valley, where you’ll keep your eyes peeled for moose, bears, and other giants.

Once you get over the range, your pilot will show you some of the most impressive lookout points while providing interesting stories, historical accounts, and personal anecdotes before heading close to the Denali summit. As it’s not always possible to see Denali (the mountain) from land, this is something really special!

You’ll then see the Tokositna Glacier Valley and the various notorious peaks close by. Before landing, you’ll get to see The Great Gorge, which ranks as the world’s deepest! By any view it’s impressive, but from way up high in the sky, it looks unreal!

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. grand denali flight with optional glacier landing from talkeetna.

• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Departure:  14212 E 2nd St, Talkeetna
• Includes:  Courtesy pickup/drop-off within a 2-mile radius of the Talkeetna Air Taxi office/downtown Talkeetna, w indow seat, p ersonal headset to listen, p ilot’s expert narration,  30-minute glacier landing (if option chosen)

The Talkeetna: Grand Denali Flight with Optional Glacier Landing tour is designed to impress, and take you on an adventure unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

This one is just a bit longer than our previous tour, clocking in at around 1.5 to 2 hours long. There are many similarities to our first tour, but as you read on will come to see their unique differences.

You’ll start off by arriving at the tour meetup spot and check in to their unique, log cabin office. They offer a courtesy pickup/drop-off within 2 miles of the office. It feels like you’re coming to visit family or friends, with their cozy office designed to make you feel welcome.

Your pilot will greet you and the rest of your group, providing a weather and safety briefing before you get started. Once everyone is on the same page, you’ll board your high-wing, single-engine aircraft.

There’s no need to be worried, as these pilots are highly-trained and very experienced in the Denali area.  You’ll travel towards the center of the Alaska Range for never-before-seen views of Mother Nature in all its glory.

The pilot will take you through 1-2 passes on each side of Denali so you can see the summit (which isn’t often possible through other methods of transportation).

You’re sure to be impressed once you see the legendary Wickersham Wall, which towers a whopping 13,658 feet! If you’d like, you can opt for a Denali glacier landing to play in the snow and take incredible photos from the ground.

3. Denali Southside Explorer Scenic Air Tour From Talkeetna

• Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
• Departure: Log building at the Talkeetna State Airport
• Includes:   Each passenger gets their own window seat and personal headset to listen to your pilot’s expert narration, c ourtesy pickup/drop-off within a 2 mile radius of the Talkeetna Air Taxi office/downtown Talkeetna

Are you looking for an exhilarating Denali sightseeing flight that’s perfect for the whole family? Perhaps you’re traveling in a group of people that are all looking for an adrenaline rush with amazing views? If that sounds like you, take a good look at the Talkeetna: Denali Southside Explorer Scenic Air Tour .

Lasting from 1 hour to 1.5 hours, it’s super easy to fit into even the busiest of schedules. If you’re close to the office or downtown Talkeetna, the tour company does offer a courtesy pickup/drop-off within a 2-mile radius which makes things a lot more convenient.

Limited to groups of 10 people, maximum, you can expect a personalized experience you’re sure to want to repeat again and again! Once you arrive to the cozy cabin office, you’ll check in and be offered a safety and weather briefing.

These briefings will let you know what to expect when you’re in the air. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and are such a pleasure to chat with and ask any questions you may have. If you choose the glacier landing option, they’ll also provide you with glacier boots and other required gear.

Hang out for a moment on the deck as you wait for your flight to be ready for you. Then, board the aircraft, make sure all microphones and headsets are properly working, and you’re off! Everyone gets a window seat, so you have a full aerial view of the wonders below.

As you pass by the Alaska Range and notable landmarks such as The Great Gorge, Don Sheldon Amphitheater, and Ruth Glacier, your guide will provide an interesting narration on their history.

4. Denali 75-Minute Flight Experience From Talkeetna 

• Duration: 75 to 105 minutes
• Includes:   Hotel pickup and drop-off, f light tour with pilot/guide, w indow seat for every guest, t wo-way headsets, c offee, tea, and cocoa

Our next tour is a little bit different from the others we’ve covered so far, and lasts anywhere from 75 to 105 minutes. The Talkeetna: Denali 75-Minute Flight Experience will show you not only Denali, but Little Switzerland, Kahiltna Glacier, and much more! If you want to see the Alaskan wilderness in a short amount of time, this is an excellent way to do so.

Once you arrive on site of your tour’s office, you’ll check in at their cute office while enjoying either a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate by their crackling fireplace. Here, they’ll turn on a short flight video that will offer insight into how your flight will go and answer most questions.

Then, the guide/pilot will give you a safety briefing and tell you about the weather conditions for that day. Follow your pilot out to the deck, where you’ll be assigned a window seat and test your mics. Take off toward the towering Alaska Range, first flying over the deep Susitna Valley.

This valley is home to many big wildlife, like moose and bears. The pilots love sharing their own personal anecdotes of the critters they’ve seen in this area and are great at spotting them for all to see.

You’ll fly within just 6 miles of the Denali summit – a towering, ominous experience! Head up to the Tokisitna Glacier before you turn to the 44-mile-long Kahiltna. This is the longest in the national park and one of the longest in the world. You may even get to see some mountain climbers up there!

You’ll then head east by Mount Huntington and see the south face of enormous Denali. If you choose, at this time you’ll also land on a glacier within the national park. The one you land on depends on the weather and the pilot’s discretion.

5. Grand Denali Flight Tour with Optional Glacier Landing From Talkeetna

• Includes:  Pilot, n arrated flight, w indow seat, t wo-way headset

We couldn’t leave off the Talkeetna: Grand Denali Flight Tour with Optional Glacier Landing ! If you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply want to experience Denali in a completely unique way, this is it! Lasting up to 2 hours long, you are in the hands of an experienced pilot who knows this park incredibly well.

Once in Talkeetna, the crew will pick you up and take you to their log cabin-style office. Once you’re here, you can get comfortable next to their fireplace while sipping on a hot coffee, tea, or hot chocolate while watching a brief flight video.

This video will show you what to expect on your aircraft and then your pilot will give you a safety briefing. Then, you’ll all be ready to board and take your window seat! These are some of the best views around!

Your first sight will be the Susitna Valley, where your pilot will help you spot some moose and/or bears! It’s not guaranteed, but there is a very high chance that you’ll see one or the other.

Then, head to the Alaska Range and onto the Tokisitna Glacier and Kahiltna Glacier, which is the longest in the park. Your guide will then take you behind Mount Hunter and Mount Foraker.

Check out the popular “hard mountain” called ‘Moose’s Tooth’. One of the most iconic formations in all of North America, it stands over 10,000 feet tall just by the Ruth Gorge entrance.

Next, enjoy the “open air” environment of the Don Sheldon amphitheater which is often considered to be one of the unofficial wonders of the world! This tour also includes an optional glacier landing to make it more “real” and offer amazing photo ops!

Denali National Park Tour Guide

Getting there –.

There are 3 major methods of transportation to Denali National Park : car, train, or bus. There are no local airports, but Fairbanks is 120 miles a way and Anchorage is 240 miles.

You could fly to one of them and then rent a car, or take the train or bus to get to Denali. However, you’re likely going to be staying in Healy, which is just about 15 to 20 minutes away from Denali.

We recommend the train, just because it’s so cozy, smooth, and comfortable. Plus, it’s a great way to see Alaska from large windows!

Getting Around –

Getting around Denali Park is surprisingly easy, considering the varying and sometimes extreme terrain. However, there are very well-paved paths throughout a large portion of the park and during the summertime, private vehicles can drive through the first 15 miles of the road out to Savage River. This is a great way to potentially see wild animals hanging around in their natural habitats, along with the obvious natural beauty that the park has to offer.

Aside from private vehicles, there’s also the option of taking the affordable transit buses that stop intermittently to view wildlife, for rests, and more. Alternatively, you have free buses and narrated tour buses.

In order to get past the first 15 miles, you’ll have to be on a bus, bike, or on foot. Biking is a lot of fun in the summertime, with soft, paved hills. Walking is nice too, but can genuinely get tiresome after the first few miles.

Where to Stay –

Despite being pretty remote, there are quite a few lodging options if you’re going to be exploring Denali Park. You can find something to fit just about any budget, from hostel cabins and more affordable roadhouses to luxury hotels on the side of the mountains.

If you’re going with a significant other, the Denali Crow’s Nest Cabins are romantic, luxurious, and have fantastic views. If you have your RV with you, the Denali Rainbow Village RV Park & Motel is the way to go. If you’re going with the entire family, check out the Healy Heights Family Cabins. They’re family-friendly and have a lot of extra space and beds.

Restaurants and Eating Out –

We said it before, and we’ll say it again: Denali has some incredible food. Let’s take a look at some of the best-rated restaurants that we also approve of!

229 Parks Restaurant and Tavern – Located inside a charming little log cabin on the side of the road, it shows off a wide array of different Alaskan cuisines, from rich seafood to seasonal produce. It may not look like a big deal from the outside, but it is high in demand so make sure to book ahead.

Rose’s Café – Made to refuel during long trips, it’s family-owned and operated and is perfect for starting your day off early. They’re always ready to serve you delicious coffee, soup, eggs benedict, and more at the crack of dawn with a smile on their faces!

Moose-AKA’s – This restaurant manages to transport you to Europe, with Serbian/Eastern European influences! Fried crepes and schnitzel are a couple of the most popular dishes here, but you’re sure to try something you’ve never had before.

The Black Bear – Featured on Food Network as the “Best Coffee House in Alaska”, it’s been going strong for over 2 decades now. Always busy in the mornings, it’s known for its avocado toast, freshly-baked pastries, and rich coffee.

Nightlife and Entertainment –

Denali and the surrounding area isn’t going to be your typical city where you find clubs and bars everywhere. However, there are still some solid entertainment options available. You’ll find that the Denali Park Salmon Bake is the place to go for live music and dancing in the evening, and honestly it’s worth it!

Fannie Q’s Saloon offers more of that old-school saloon feel with a modern twist! Delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner is available and in the evening they always book talented live entertainment.

Karstens Public House is perfect if you’re a craft beer aficionado (or just enjoy a good brew). With 12 local brews on tap and fresh cocktails available, sip on something new while enjoying the view outside or chatting with the friendly locals.

For tourists, the Cabin Nite Dinner Theater is a must-see, with a top-notch musical revue about the gold rush era. Not only do they provide a show, but dinner as well. Oh, and they don’t skimp on the food! If you’re looking for a good time for the whole family, this is it.

Princess Cruises has a big influence in the area, and they have their own evening show called ‘The Music of Denali’. Each show lasts about an hour, and the dinner 2 hours. It’s a fun time and a great excuse to get dressed up.

Weather –

While Denali is undoubtedly beautiful no matter the time of year, we highly recommend going in the summer months. Summers can get to over 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but can be a bit chilly and overcast at times as well. However, during the colder months it’s outright frigid, icy, and snowy and can drop down to around -11 degrees!

Tips –

• You can’t travel the entire Denali Park road by private vehicle. However, there are times where the weather is really nice and they open up the first 30 miles!
• Expect any type of weather, at any time. This means we highly recommend packing a warm coat or jacket, warm gloves, head coverings, along with boots that will keep your feet dry. Even in the middle of summer, it can snow.
• Visit the sled dogs! Did you know that Denali is the only national park that has a team of working sled dogs? If you visit during the summer you can go and see their kennels! They’re so adorable and friendly, and it’s a can’t-miss.
• Plan for more than 1 day. Denali is just so massive and has so much to offer, you’re sure to want to go back and check out even more. Although you’ll undoubtedly see a lot through your ATV tours, you’ll likely want to go hiking or even take a bus deeper into the park.
• ATV Tours . To see Denali from the ground there is no better way to see the park is with an ATV tour . You be able to see the wildlife and explore the park up close and personal.

Tour Guides

The Denali 1-Hour Flight Experience From Talkeetna is our Editors Choice for the best flightseeing tour of Denali National park

Robert Baker

Related articles, ▷ the 5 best denali park atv tours [2024 reviews], the 5 best kenai fjords national park cruises [2024 reviews], 🐋 the 7 best juneau whale watching tours [2024 reviews], the 5 best fairbanks northern lights tours [2024 reviews].

Flightseeing – Discover Denali National Park

$575+ $29 tax & fees – per person, offered year round.

Denali in a day. Tour North America’s tallest peak on this one-day flightseeing adventure from Anchorage. At a formidable 20,320 feet tall, Denali (formerly Mt. McKinley) is the centerpiece of Denali National Park.

You’ll get the best view on a Denali flightseeing tour on this intimate, 3-hour Discover Denali Flightseeing Tour with an experienced Alaska bush pilot who loves to share Alaska’s most inaccessible and spectacularly-wild settings.

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Last updated: March 28, 2024

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Contact info, mailing address:.

PO Box 9 Denali Park, AK 99755

907 683-9532 A ranger is available 9 am to 4 pm daily (except on major holidays). If you reach the voicemail, please leave a message and we'll call you back as soon as we finish with the previous caller.

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Anchorage Discover Denali Flightseeing Tour

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• Reviews (3)

Excursion Overview

Soar through the incredible glaciers, peaks, and valleys of denali.

Denali (formally known as Mt. McKinley) is the tallest mountain in North America with a summit elevation of 20,310 feet above sea level. Your journey starts from Anchorage's lively seaplane base, Lake Hood. Fly over the flatlands across Cook Inlet and look for wildlife such as Beluga whales, moose, bears, swans, and the occasional wolf or coyote. Follow the rugged spine of the Alaska Range with its massive walls of rock and ice to the crowning jewel, Denali. View Tokosha Mountains, the winding Tokositna Glacier, and Ruth Glacier, a 40-mile long glacier that flows through the granite-walled Great Gorge which is the deepest trench in the world. Depending on the time of year and weather conditions, you may observe the ebb and flow that shape glacial ice and landscape. Depending on mother nature, you may spot cascading ice-falls and the occasional plummeting avalanche. In summer, enjoy a remote lake landing on floats for photo opportunities. When a lake stop is not available (primarily winter months), enjoy a visit to the quaint town of Talkeetna. The photo stop landing location varies seasonally and is dependent on weather. The landing is about 15-20 minutes, long enough to stretch your legs and take some awesome photos.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Roundtrip transportation (summer only)
• A window seat and a two-way headset
• Complimentary coffee, tea or cocoa
• Remote lake landing when conditions allow

Requirements:

• Maximum weight: 350lbs

Duration: 3 hours (roundtrip from tour office)

• 3-hour flightseeing tour

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets at the operator's Anchorage office. Complimentary pick-ups from local hotels are available to schedule (summer only). Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Closed-toed shoes are required on the plane. We suggest bringing light layers, a jacket, and sunglasses!

There is a shuttle service provided to guests from downtown Anchorage, the airport, and airport area hotels available to schedule. The shuttle picks you up 45 minutes before your scheduled departure. The shuttle is offered in the summer season only! Details are included in your finalized ticket voucher.

Every passenger gets a window seat, and a two-way headset so you can communicate with the pilot for the entire flight.

If you get motion sick on planes, you might want to take precautions before your flight such as medications. Sick bags are available on the plane.

If your flight is postponed due to weather or other unseen events out of our control we are happy to work with your schedule to rebook your tour. Of course, we also provide a full refund if you cannot rebook your tour.

You can expect to see Dall sheep, bears, wolves, coyotes, foxes, moose, and other Alaska wildlife. Wildlife is expected but never guaranteed.

The co-pilot seat cannot be guaranteed due to FAA weight restrictions, however we will do our best to accommodate.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On aug 2024.

Breathtaking

On Jul 2024

Had an amazing trip! Breathtaking views of Denali, glaciers, just everything! Highlight of our Alaska trip!

On Aug 2022

This was an absolutely fabulous trip! The pilot (Ed) was wonderful and very knowledgeable. We did luck out and have a rare cloudless day and we were able to see for miles!!

• Reviews Showing: 3

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Duration: 3 hours

Date Required

Time Required

# of Passengers Required

Adult (13+): $ 575.00

Children (0-12): $ 525.00

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Related tours.

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Welcome to Talkeetna and Denali National Park, Alaska

Flightseeing tours, glacier landing tours, climber drop-off, helicopter services.

We hear from our clients daily that the scenic flight from Talkeetna to Denali National Park is the highlight of their Alaska trip, and to some a life changing event! Come see why Denali flightseeing tours are continuously rated the #1 tour in Alaska and considered the greatest mountain flight in the world.

* Prices include all taxes

Southside Explorer

Follow the river systems of Talkeetna across the Susitna Valley into an incredible landscape of icefalls, glaciers and snowy peaks.

Add a glacier landing to this tour.

Mountain Voyager

ll the awe-inspiring scenic essentials. Enter further into the heart of the Alaska Range to explore seemingly endless glaciers, massive mountains, and the majesty of Denali itself.

Grand Denali

The definitive tour of Denali that covers more of the Alaska Range than any other tour available. An unforgettable experience that includes the many faces of North America’s tallest mountain in addition to the features included in the other tours.

Summit Tour

This high-elevation expedition soars above Denali to view the summit at over 20,000 ft. and is a one-of-a-kind tour for adventurous travelers that explores the Alaska Range from a unique, towering perspective.

Winter Explorer

This is the only tour we offer from October 1st- April 30th. This winter tour explores the southern side of the Alaska Range. Your pilot will be your guide and customize your tour based on weather conditions for the day. This flight does have a 2 passenger minimum. Please call for one passenger pricing. 

Check Availability

Book online.

During these uncertain times, you can book with confidence knowing, if your plans change and you need to cancel, you will not be penalized. We are offering a full refund of your purchase for any reason.

Talkeetna & Denali National Park, Alaska

Join us on a Denali flightseeing tour and experience one of the greatest mountain landscapes on earth. Over six million acres of mile high granite gorges, ancient blue glaciers and endless icy peaks… let’s go!

Add a glacier landing to any of our Denali flight seeing tours to walk among the great peaks and experience an environment known only to mountaineers. Our flights are safe, smooth and exciting. Check out our photos for further inspiration. We look forward to flying with you.

Tour Summary

• Fly south from Fairbanks and wonder at the vast and remote land below. 
• Experience the majestic Alaska Mountain Range.
• Climb to nearly 21,000 feet in an oxygen-equipped aircraft for a dramatic view of Denali's summit when weather allows.
• Thrill at the excitement of witnessing firsthand Denali, North America's tallest mountain, by air from a unique perspective - eye level!

We leave with the same intent as the climbers -- to reach the summit! Weather, winds and visibility will dictate our final route and success.  We will only go when it is safe to go and we know we are able to share Denali National Park with our guests - but final altitude and what part of Denali we see will vary.  The use of oxygen does provide us a few more options to safely try.

We will be flying in a non-pressurized plane using supplemental oxygen.  Guests with closed sinuses or who cannot use supplemental oxygen should not take this flight.

The Ultimate Denali Experience!!

Tour Dates and Rates

April 22, 2024 - May 11, 2024

10:00 AM Departure

Days: Daily

September 19, 2024 - October 7, 2024

November 23, 2024 - December 1, 2024

December 21, 2024 - January 5, 2025

January 29, 2025 - February 28, 2025

March 1, 2025 - March 31, 2025

October 8, 2024 - November 17, 2024

December 2, 2024 - December 20, 2024

January 6, 2025 - January 28, 2025

April 1, 2025 - April 21, 2025

Departs 10:00 am; returns approximately 12:00 pm (times may vary pending availability at the time of your reservation.)

MINIMUM Age : 10 Years Old

For visitors looking for an experience involving Denali, the tallest mountain on North America, we are able to offer a variety of Denali focused adventures departing from both Fairbanks and Healy, located 11 miles north of the Denali National Park entrance.

Guests with recent dental work and/or sinus issues may feel more than normal discomfort as gas expands as we are flying in a non-pressurized plane.  Depending on your pain threshold you may wish to reconsider.  Call and talk to us if you have any concerns.

More information on the Denali Summit Flight can be found at  http://www.denalisummitflight.com/summittour/

For information on how to make a reservation, click on the link to our planning  page. 

Denali National Park, Alaska, view of Park Road and Denali

Michael Deyoung

Denali Air Adventure

S Manriquez

Arctic Circle Air Adventure

A One Day Guided Round Trip Journey By Air And Land Across The Arctic Circle

• ✓ Arctic Circle
• Χ Arctic Ocean
• Χ Polar Bear
• Χ Undiscovered Arctic
• Χ Yukon River

Fairbanks by Air

A Half-hour Flight Experience Over The Golden Heart City of Fairbanks and the Surrounding Wilderness of the Tanana Valley.

• Χ Arctic Circle

• General Information
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• Phone: 907-683-2261

RESERVATIONS

To make a reservation, please complete the form below and pay a $50 deposit per passenger. The deposit is fully refundable up to 24 hours prior to flight time. Seats will not be reserved without a deposit.

Primary Contact

• Hotel In Denali
• Cell Phone *
• Flight Information

Please select your flight below.

Price: $449 adults, $225 children (ages 2-12)

Flight times: 8am, 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm.

• Select Denali Peak Experience

Price: $365 adults, $215 children (ages 2-12)

Flight times: 12pm, 2pm.

• Select Denali Express

FOR FLIGHTS WITHIN THE NEXT 24 HOURS, PLEASE CALL (907) 683-2261 TO BOOK! gform.addFilter( 'gform_datepicker_options_pre_init', function( optionsObj, formId, fieldId ) { if ( formId == 2 && fieldId == 20 ) { var ranges = [ { start: new Date('05/12/2023'), end: new Date('09/21/2023') }, { start: new Date('05/12/2024'), end: new Date('09/21/2024') } ]; optionsObj.beforeShowDay = function(date) { for ( var i=0; i = ranges[i].start && date Date Requested MM slash DD slash YYYY 2024 SEASON: May 12, 2024 - September 24, 2024 Time Requested 8:00 AM 10:00 AM 12:00 PM 2:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 8:00 PM Deposit # of Passengers * Please enter a number greater than or equal to 1 . Name of Passengers & Weight Ground Transportation

We provide a courtesy shuttle to and from Denali area hotel/landmarks. Please note that we are not able to guarantee pick-ups from Airbnbs. Please contact us for more information or if you have a question about our shuttles. Pick-up times range from 30-60 prior to flight time, depending on pick-up location.

Cancellation Policy

Reservations may be cancelled with no penalty 24 hours or more prior to flight time. Flights may be rescheduled, as needed, based on availability. Weather cancellations are at the discretion of Denali Air. Please contact us for recent pilot reports and weather updates if you have concerns about your flight.

To make a reservation, simply pay a $50 deposit per person. The remaining fare will be collected upon check-in. The deposit is refundable up to 24 hours prior to your flight. Seats will not be reserved without a deposit.

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Contact information.

Denali Air, Inc. P.O. Box 82 Denali National Park, Alaska 99755 Mile 229.5 Parks Highway

Phone: 907-683-2261 Fax: 907-683-1347

Email: [email protected]

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9 Day Trips from Anchorage You'll Never Forget

W hile I firmly believe that the most epic way to explore Alaska is on a lengthy road trip, that’s not the right option for some people. You may have young kids or just prefer not repacking every other night to move to a different hotel. The great news is that with some carefully chosen day trips from Anchorage, you can get an amazing taste of what The Last Frontier has to offer!

Anchorage makes an ideal base for a more relaxed trip to Alaska not only because of its robust international airport but also its location at the nexus of several very diverse areas of the state. In my Anchorage day trip suggestions below, you’ll find awesome options for adventurers, kids and everyone in between. There’s also a nice mix of free things to do near Anchorage and paid tours.

I’m so excited to be returning to Alaska in September 2024! That trip will be entirely Anchorage-based so I’ll be adding a few more dynamite options shortly.

Anchorage day trip tips

As a quick logistical note, I’ve grouped these day trips by rough geography. Depending on how busy you want your days to be, you can generally combine a few options into a single day. If you know that your travel crew can’t handle too much excitement in a single day, you can choose one of these day trip options for the morning and then head back to Anchorage for some city exploration in the afternoon.

It’s also worth remembering that Alaska doesn’t have that many major roads. If you’re planning a hub-and-spoke type of trip, you may wind up going the same direction on a few different days. That’s ok! It doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. When you take a look at the map of the best day trips from Anchorage, Alaska below, you’ll see that there are a lot of great options clustered along certain routes – more than you could realistically enjoy in a single day while still returning to Anchorage at night.

Many of these day trips are also fantastic opportunities to arrange a professional photo shoot with Flytographer . Since most photographers are based in Anchorage, you’ll find reasonable travel fees and better availability than if you try to schedule one in the bush. The photographer we booked (through a different service) cancelled on us at the last minute due to illness and I really wish we had epic pictures that capture both us and the incredible landscapes!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Alaska:

Alaska Guide

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Alaska? Get my guide and let me do the work for you!

Our favorite hotels in Alaska

• Anchorage: Hotel Captain Cook
• Seward: Hotel Edgewater
• Girdwood: Hotel Alyeska or fully-stocked condo
• Soldotna : Kenai River Condo
• Denali: Denali Bluffs Hotel

Getting around Alaska

• RentalCars.com

Our favorite activities and tours in Alaska

• Dog sledding
• Kenai Fjords National Park cruise
• Matanuska Glacier walk
• Denali flightseeing tour
• Book a photo shoot in Alaska

Be sure to buy travel insurance to protect yourself and your vacation expenses! Compare the top companies here to find the right plan for you.

Anchorage day trips to the north

Dog sledding in willow.

My kids have voted this as their top experience in Alaska: visiting the awesome kennel and going for a ride with Alaskan Husky Adventures in Willow . We got the chance to tour with Liz, Matt and the team when they were just getting started and their endeavor has only grown!

They offer year-round tours with their incredible team of Iditarod racing Alaskan huskies, using specially-designed carts in the summer and traditional sleds in the winter. No matter when you go, you’ll learn a ton about what it takes behind the scenes to compete in long-distance races and get to know the awesome dogs and people that make it possible.

And don’t worry, there will be plenty of puppy snuggles!

Musk Ox Farm or Reindeer Farm

The Reindeer Farm in Palmer is consistently recommended as a fun opportunity to see some of North America’s biggest animals up close. There’s a heard of 100 reindeer, a wood bison, a yak, bunnies and more. Tours are one hour, with the last tour at 5pm through most of the summer.

If the Reindeer Farm doesn’t sound like your speed, another option in the area is the Musk Ox Farm . This non-profit seeks to protect and grow the musk oxen population and provide musk ox fur ( qiviut ) to Alaska Native women to craft into deliciously soft handmade garments.

While we had planned to visit these farms on our trip to Alaska with kids , unfortunately a terrible crash closed the highway for about six hours on our way back from Willow. Unfortunately that’s a reality of travel in Alaska: with few direct routes in most areas, a highway closure can totally derail your plans. Stay patient and flexible!

Read more: Renting A Car In Alaska: 9 Things You NEED To Know

Day trips from Anchorage to the east

Alyeska tram.

The Turnagain Arm is one of the most scenic places near Anchorage, and you can get an awesome view of it from the top of Mt. Alyeska in Girdwood. Of course there’s only one way to get there in style: the Alyeska Aerial Tram!

In just a matter of minutes it whisks you 2000 feet up, where you can take a little hike even higher, have a summer snowball fight, grab a cup of soup at the Bore Tide Deli and take in an awesome sunset from the observation deck. If you look down, you can spot daring mountain bikers and maybe even a black bear – but hopefully not in the same place.

Be prepared for weather at the top!

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

If you want to “meet” some of Alaska’s most famous residents without traveling far and wide and crossing all your fingers and toes, head to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center . This non-profit wildlife sanctuary is just an hour from downtown Anchorage and home to both brown and black bears, moose, elk, muskoxen, foxes, “big” birds and more.

Some of the setting may look familiar, as AWCC has been featured in plenty of TV shows and movies over the years. But beyond the publicity, they do a lot of great work for the animals in their care. Be sure to talk to some of the staff to learn about how they integrate new arrivals, interesting behaviors they see and more!

On a practical note, you’ll see most of the animals around a 1.5 mile flat loop road. If you have physical limitations you are able to drive it. For most people you’ll have a better experience walking the loop – just be prepared that the road can be mucky (like everything in Alaska!) so leave the cute white shoes at home.

Byron Glacier

Do you dream of getting up close and personal with a glacier? There’s no better opportunity than taking the easy trail out to Byron Glacier! It’s less than one mile each way over mostly flat (though uneven) ground so this is perfect for visitors of all ages. Even though it’s a close, simple hike it’s really one of my personal favorite things to near Anchorage!

You can even (carefully) walk on the ice here, though don’t go too high up unless you’re experienced and have proper gear like crampons. Do not go into the ice caves you may see – just appreciate them from right outside.

Day trips to Kenai Peninula south of Anchorage

Kenai fjords national park.

Kenai Fjords National Park is about the furthest I’d venture on a day trip from Anchorage, as the drive from Anchorage to Seward is nearly 2.5 hours… just on the cusp of a “day trip” in my book. But it’s also incredibly beautiful and worth seeing! I’ll leave it to you to decide whether or not to venture down.

Kenai Fjords is a land-and-sea park, with much of its area in and around the coastal town of Seward. Once you get there, you’ll definitely want to take a boat tour of Kenai Fjords – you’ll see epic wildlife from whales to puffins and also go right up to the face of a glacier! The company we toured with had a naturalist on board so there were great opportunities to learn as we toured.

After your boat tour, head inland to Exit Glacier within the park. Unfortunately this is a prime example of a glacier that’s quickly receding, and as you walk the trail you’ll see markers for the toe of the glacier through history. The Exit Glacier View trail is an easy, 1 miles accessible loop. If you’re in the mood for something harder, Exit Glacier Overlook adds an extra mile but also gets you a little elevation gain and uneven ground – it’s not “hard” but definitely more work than the map makes it appear! Be sure you have proper hiking shoes and ample water for this one. For a more enriching experience you can often join a ranger for these hikes.

Have you really been to Alaska (in summer) if you haven’t gone fishing? I think not! The Kenai Peninsula is home to some of the state’s best fishing spots, and they’re relatively easy to access from Anchorage. There are tons of options as close as Cooper Landing (just under 2 hours) all the way to the town of Kenai (close to 3 hours).

(In the interest of transparenty, these fishing photos were taken in Lake Clark… more on that in a moment!)

The Alaska Department of Fish & Game provides more information than you probably want if you’re a casual angler, but it can be helpful to get a sense for what fish will be “in season” when you visit. That can include several types of salmon, Dolly Varden (which is delicious), trout and pike.

The good news is that you don’t have to become an expert, you just need to hire one. Choose one of these excellent fishing tours and you’ll get to spend the day with a guide who knows exactly how to find the best fish along the river.

Most importantly: Be sure that every adult in your party gets a fishing license before your outing. It’s quick, easy and cheap but guides will not let you fish without one if you’re at least 16 years old.

Want to skip all the planning and access my detailed Alaska Itinerary complete with daily schedules, awesome activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Flightseeing from Anchorage

What if I told you that some of the most incredible daytrips from Anchorage don’t require driving at all? There are two options worth considering that are actually day trips by plane ! They depart from one of the local Anchorage airports (which one can vary by your hotel, your destination and which company you choose).

Bear viewing from Anchorage

We did an absolutely incredible day trip to Lake Clark National Park to see bears up close in their natural habitat and do some fishing. It was expensive, but I highly recommend it. Since we were on a lengthy road trip we flew from Soldotna rather than Anchorage – a little shorter and a little less expensive. This tour takes you directly from Anchorage.

There’s some debate as to whether it’s better to go to Lake Clark or Katmai, home to the famous Brooks Falls. Where do I shake out on Katmai vs Lake Clark? We opted for the latter because it’s less expensive, less crowded and we had much more time actually observing bears than we would have at Brooks Falls. At Lake Clark we were watching bears fishing, playing and even cuddling for over four hours!

Nearly all of our bear observation was from our boat and there were only two or three other boats in the vicinity at the same time, while at Brooks Falls most observation is from a designated viewing platform. The photo above is my own, taken from our boat with a decent zoom lens and no one else around.

Denali flightseeing

One of Alaska’s most iconic experiences, which I haven’t had yet, is seeing Denali. It’s North America’s highest peak and, if you’re lucky enough to get a view it’s majestic. Because so much of Alaska is park land, getting to Denali by requires flying into either Anchorage and driving four hours or flying to Fairbanks and driving two hours.

A cool option if you want to avoid the driving is to hop on a small seaplane and fly from Anchorage to Denali! Your total tour time is around 3 hours, which includes a stop in (or near, depending on conditions) Denali National Park to take some awesome photos and soak up the scenery.

Mapping Anchorage day trip options

Suggested alaska itinerary based in anchorage.

If you aren’t up for a big Alaska road trip itinerary , that’s ok – as I said before you can get a great sample even with Anchorage as your base! How should you split your time for an Anchorage itinerary?

Many of these day trips can involve a lot of driving and some of the activities take up a full or half day. Here’s a sample of how I would divide my time on a 5 day itinerary:

• Day 0 – Evening arrival in Anchorage

Day 1 – Eklutna Lake, dog sledding in Willow, Hatcher Pass

Total drive time ~4.5 hours, but split into 1hr chunks

• Day 2 – Explore Anchorage: Alaska Native Heritage Center, Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

Day 3 – Kenai Fjords wildlife cruise + Exit Glacier

Total drive time ~4h 45min roundtrip

Day 4 – Flightseeing to Denali or bear viewing

Departure from one of the small Anchorage airports

Day 5 – Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Byron Glacier, Alyeska tram

Total drive time ~2.5 hours roundtrip

Planning your incredible Alaska adventure

Ready to dive deep into planning your vacation in Alaska? Don’t miss these helpful articles:

• Your Ultimate Alaska Itinerary: 10 Days In Anchorage & The Kenai Peninsula
• Alaska With Kids: Unforgettable Activities and Must-Read Tips
• Renting A Car In Alaska: 9 Things You NEED To Know
• Your Complete Packing List for Alaska in Summer: Tried and Tested Advice
• Alaska Travel Tips You Should Read Before You Go
• Major Marine Kenai Fjords Cruises: A Can’t-Miss Alaska Highlight
• Alaska Car Seat Laws You Need to Know

The post 9 Day Trips from Anchorage You’ll Never Forget appeared first on The Family Voyage .

Snowy peaks and hot springs: A Fairbanks-Denali-Anchorage road trip

Most of Alaska can be rugged and impenetrable by car, but the 360-mile road trip between the state's largest cities of Anchorage and Fairbanks is a breeze.

As you drive the well-maintained George Parks Highway, you'll visit the breathtaking wilderness of Denali National Park — home to the highest mountain peak in North America — and the spirited small town of Talkeetna.

Fairbanks and Anchorage lay claim to a couple of the best museums in the state. Plus, they offer easy access to nature, whether your passion is hiking, kayaking, biking or fishing.

You can easily continue your journey south from Anchorage through the alluring natural scenery of the glacially sculpted Kenai Peninsula.

Southcentral Alaska road trip planning

The main stops on this scenic journey are at roughly two-hour intervals along two of the state's principal thoroughfares: the George Parks Highway and the Glenn Highway (closer to Anchorage). The mostly two-lane (and four-lane in and around Fairbanks and Anchorage) roads are labeled Highway 3 and Highway 1, respectively, on maps. Alaskans never speak of highway route numbers, so refer to them by their proper names to avoid receiving blank stares from locals.

Although there are very few towns on the northern stretch of this route, you'll rarely be more than 40 miles between gas stations. Keep your tank above a quarter full, and you'll be fine. Wildlife, including moose and bears, are commonplace; stay alert, stick close to posted speed limits and heed "animal crossing" signs. Cell service is spotty north of Talkeetna, so download maps in advance.

Car rentals are expensive in Alaska during the high season (late spring to early fall). One-way, one-week rentals in Fairbanks and Anchorage start around $1,500. The price drops by as much as 50% if you pick up and drop off at the same location, so consider adding an extra day to this trip to return to where you started. Without stops, the drive between Anchorage and Fairbanks is six hours.

DIY versus an organized tour

For road trip fans, exploring Southcentral Alaska by car is a joy. You can go at your own pace, choose cozier and quirkier restaurants and accommodations, and pull off to snap a photo of a moose or bald eagle at whim.

The vast majority of visitors to this part of the state travel by way of a glass-domed or picture-window train tour on the scenic Alaska Railroad, a luxury motor coach tour or some combination of the two. All major cruise lines with itineraries that start or end in Whittier or Seward offer these as pre- or post-trip excursions, typically spanning two to five days.

You can also book these trips directly through popular companies like Alaska Tours (from $1,759 per person, double occupancy, for five nights by motor coach and train) or directly through the Alaska Railroad . The latter offers several packages that cover Anchorage, Denali and Fairbanks, usually in combination with Seward or Whittier (from $3,795 per person, double occupancy, for seven nights by train).

Given the steep cost of rental cars and hotels in summer, you won't save money traveling on your own versus taking a group tour. The prices are similar for comparable levels of comfort. But a do-it-yourself road trip is easy to plan thanks to this region's tourism-friendly infrastructure. So, if you prefer the freedom of hitting the open road at your own pace, free from a group, an independent road trip is the right option.

Budgeting your time

At a brisk pace, you can see the major attractions on this trip in five days and four nights. For a more relaxing experience, allow a week.

Getting to Fairbanks or Anchorage

This itinerary begins in Fairbanks, the largest city in the upper half of the state. You could also drive it in reverse, beginning in Alaska's largest metropolis, Anchorage.

Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) is served by most major airlines, with direct flights at least once daily from northern and western Lower 48 hubs. Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) offers many more flights and connections, including several direct international routes.

The best months to visit central Alaska

The best and only practical time period for this trip is mid-May through early October. There are great reasons to visit Fairbanks and Anchorage in winter — like seeing the northern lights and watching dog-sled races — but road-tripping isn't one of them. Driving conditions can be hazardous during this time, and services in or near Denali National Park are extremely limited in winter.

You'll encounter the biggest crowds and steepest hotel rates from mid-June through Labor Day, but this is also when you're likely to experience the best weather. You'll find partly sunny skies with some rain possible; temperatures are mild, with average highs in the 60s. Fairbanks in mid-June can be a lot of fun when you experience the true midnight sun. All summer, the region's long days provide more time to hike and avoid driving in darkness.

Fairbanks to Denali National Park

Alaska's second-largest city (with a population of around 32,000), Fairbanks is a friendly, slightly sprawling expanse of gently undulating woodland. It's bisected by the snaking Chena and Tanana rivers. The city is about 120 miles south of the Arctic Circle, and it's the first large community visitors reach when driving to Alaska from Canada via the legendary Alaska, or Alcan, Highway.

Visit the sleek, contemporary Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center downtown. As with any visitor center, you can pick up brochures and ask the staff for sightseeing advice. However, the building also contains a superb (and free) museum about human and natural history. Walk through the series of life-size dioramas that touch on Native Alaskan culture, local flora and fauna and archaeology. Then, go outside to the walking path flanking the Chena River to snap a selfie beneath the Moose Antler Arch, fashioned from more than 100 antlers.

Then, stroll west along the river and then south a couple of blocks into the heart of downtown and grab breakfast or lunch at the locally beloved Crepery or dinner at refined Lavelle's Bistro .

The city's other must-see attraction is the Museum of the North , set in a striking, angular building on the hilltop flagship campus of the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The museum's great draws are the natural history exhibits — which depict seals, caribou and a gruff-looking, nearly 9-foot-tall grizzly bear.

Don't overlook the excellent gallery on the second level: It's filled with works by generations of Alaskan artists. As you climb the staircase, behold the 42-foot-long skeleton of a bowhead whale on one side and the vast panoramas south toward the Tanana River Valley and Alaska Range through the window. The museum shop has an exceptional collection of Alaskan-made art and crafts.

For a different perspective on the landscape, book a three-hour narrated cruise on the Riverboat Discovery , a vintage stern-wheeler that plies the Tanana and Chena rivers. The Tanana Valley Farmers Market — open Wednesday and Saturday in summer — is worth a stop for its bounty of local foods and crafts.

The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum also stands out. It holds more than 70 vehicles inside — many of them rare. They nearly all date to the pre-1940s and have been meticulously restored. Beside the cars is an equally impressive trove of period fashion, with photos of intrepid adventurers driving their early autos across the formidable Alaskan landscape, often through mountains of snow, on the walls. It's inspiring material for your road trip through the Last Frontier.

The drive to Denali National Park is a straight shot about 120 miles down George Parks Highway. Immediately southwest out of town, the road climbs steadily into the hills before dipping about 60 miles later to cross a dramatic bridge over the Nenana River, where it enters the larger Tanana.

Pull off the highway for a quick look around Nenana village. Stop by the Historic Alaska Railroad Depot, walk along the river, and drop into rollicking old Moochers Bar for an Alaskan beer. It's a little less than an hour from Denali.

Optional side trip to Chena Hot Springs

Before leaving Fairbanks for Denali, consider making this one-hour side excursion in the opposite direction. About 60 miles northeast, Chena Hot Springs Resort is a funky and remote 440-acre resort run entirely on renewable geothermal energy. It's most popular for its indoor and outdoor soaking pools, and in winter, it's a magical viewpoint for the northern lights. It's a pleasure to soak in the two spring-fed pools, which maintain a temperature of 82 to 86 degrees.

At this tranquil property, you can explore the Aurora Ice Museum, book a sled-dog kennel tour or horseback ride, dine in the excellent geothermal greenhouse-to-table restaurant, sip appletinis out of ice goblets, and even spend the night in the simple but pleasant lodgings.

The drive here through mossy forests is super-relaxing until you spy a giant moose bathing in one of the roadside ponds. At this point, you'll want to (carefully) pull over and snap some photos from a safe distance. The odds of seeing these towering ungulates increase early or late in the day as you pass through Chena River State Recreation Area, within about 15 miles of the resort.

Where to stay near Fairbanks

Wedgewood Resort (rates start at $279 per night) is a comfortable option, a short drive from downtown but with a quiet parklike setting. (Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is on the grounds.)

Close to the airport and set along a pretty expanse of the Chena River, Pike's Waterfront Lodge (rates start at $234 per night) has several distinctive amenities: an aromatherapy steam room and dry sauna, a theater showing films about the northern lights, a speakeasy-style billiards lounge and a very popular riverfront restaurant.

Chena Hot Springs Resort (rates start at $210 per night) has 86 hotel rooms, plus cabins and yurts. If you're not in a rush, it's worth spending a night here. The setting is magical.

Denali National Park to Talkeetna

As you approach Denali National Park from Fairbanks, you'll first pass through Healy, a diminutive, laid-back town with several lodging options and restaurants. It's far less commercial than the strip of eateries, tour businesses and hotels 10 miles farther south — just outside the park's main entrance — known as "Glitter Gulch."

Though convenient, Glitter Gulch teems with park visitors. However, it's home to Prospector's Pizzeria & Alehouse — a must-stop for outstanding pies piled with inventive ingredients and an exceptional list of Alaska craft beers.

Set aside a couple of days to explore Denali National Park . The vast majority of this 7,408-square-mile park is untrammeled wilderness, and there are just two ways to explore it in a vehicle.

The most popular way is to book a ride in one of the green school buses that plies Denali's 92-mile park road. Alas, in 2021, the massive Pretty Rock Landslide washed out this gravel byway at mile 43. Until a mammoth rebuilding project is completed around summer 2026, buses can travel only as far as mile 43; the gorgeous and hugely popular Eielson Visitor Center (at mile 66) is closed.

Your other option is to drive into the park, but private autos are permitted only as far as mile 15 of the park road, at the Savage River picnic area. Still, given that the scenery along these first 15 miles is arguably even more beautiful than on the additional 28-mile stretch accessible to park buses, driving your car is arguably the more enjoyable option. You can go at your own pace, and you're guaranteed a good view out your car window. Best of all, you don't have to scramble for a seat on a crowded bus.

The parking lot at Savage River can fill up, however, so try to go when it's less crowded (either early in the morning or late in the afternoon).

Whether you drive or take the bus, you should visit Savage River. From here, you can access two of the park's best hiking trails. The easy 1.7-mile round-trip Savage River Loop Trail meanders through a breathtaking river valley. Departing from the same trailhead, the moderately challenging Savage Alpine Trail (4.2 miles one-way or 6.5 miles as a loop) climbs about 1,500 feet over a craggy, wildflower-strewn ridge with astounding views before descending to Savage River Campground. From here you can flag down a bus or walk along the Park Road the final 2.3 miles back to where you started.

During your visit, you may glimpse the park's namesake 20,310-foot-tall peak. However, Denali has fickle weather, and the summit is often shrouded in clouds, even when it's sunny at Savage River. The park is about more than just the mountain, though. Near the park entrance, there's a lot to see around the main visitor center, including the sled-dog kennels at the park headquarters and several outstanding hikes. One of the best is the 4-mile round-trip jaunt to Horseshoe Lake.

For the most memorable views of the park, consider splurging on a flightseeing excursion. Several reputable outfitters offer this, like Healy-based Fly Denali and Talkeetna's K2 Aviation , one of Alaska's best and longest-running flightseeing companies.

K2's one- to two-hour tours fly directly over the park's awesome peaks and massive, blue-tinted glaciers, offering eye-popping, up-close views and (weather permitting) a great look at Denali Peak. For an extra charge, you can book a flight that lands on a glacier, where you can hop out for a quick walk.

To get to Talkeetna, it's a 2.5-hour drive from Denali's park entrance, south down George Parks Highway. The final 14 miles are a jag north on Talkeetna Spur Road.

Where to stay near Denali National Park

Avoid the crowds from bus and train tours and stay in one of the smaller, slightly off-the-beaten-path accommodations either north of the park in Healy or south of it around Carlo Creek.

A notable exception to this rule is Grande Denali Lodge (rates start at $369 per night). Although it's in Glitter Gulch and is popular with groups, it has a spectacular setting high on a bluff. The lodge is situated away from road traffic and offers fantastic views of the park, including from the terrific Alpenglow restaurant.

About 15 miles south in Carlo Creek, McKinley Creekside Cabins (rates start at $289 per night) is a wonderfully relaxed little compound; it has a cute cafe and bakery and accommodations in 13 cabins and three larger vacation homes.

Talkeetna to Anchorage

Talkeetna has become a bit more discovered than when it inspired the town of Cicely in the hit '90s TV show "Northern Exposure." It's still endearingly offbeat, though. Its vibe is inextricably linked with Denali National Park, as most who visit the park also spend time here. It's also a popular stop on the Alaska Railroad; when trains come through, the town seems to quadruple in population.

It's an excellent place to spend the night if you're booking one of the town's popular flightseeing tours of Denali, but it's also just a picturesque little town with a fun personality. Also, you stand a better chance of seeing Denali's peak from Talkeetna than you do from the section of Denali National Park nearest to its entrance. Talkeetna Riverfront Park, at the west end of Main Street, is one of the best spots to take in the view.

The town also has an atmospheric 1920s general store, Nagley's, which is the residence of Talkeetna's feline mayor, Denali. (Denali replaced the former mayor, an internationally famous orange manx mix named Stubbs, who passed away in 2017 at age 20.) Talkeetna also has a small but impressive selection of galleries and restaurants. Good bets for a bite to eat include Denali Brewpub for its spacious deck and Homestead Kitchen for its mix of Southern- and Alaska-inspired dishes.

Mat-Su Valley

From Talkeetna, after returning to Parks Highway, it's a straightforward drive to Anchorage. It takes about two hours without stops, but there are a few interesting spots to check out en route in the Mat-Su (short for Matanuska-Susitna) Valley. You'll enter the valley about an hour after leaving Talkeetna.

This region is somewhat suburban, especially sprawling Wasilla, which became instantly infamous when John McCain tapped its former mayor and then-Alaska governor Sarah Palin to be his running mate during the 2008 presidential election.

Interesting stops include the Museum of Alaska Transportation Industry and Palmer — a short way up the Glenn Highway past the fork leading to Anchorage. This historic town hosts the Alaska State Fair in late August, which is famous for its humongous produce. (We're talking 138-pound cabbages and 2,000-pound pumpkins.) Alaska's long summer days result in a short but impressive growing season.

Palmer is also home to the Musk Ox Farm , a wonderful nonprofit where you can book a guided "oxperience" to see these gentle and furry Ice Age mammals up close. The Vagabond Blues Coffee House and Palmer Ale House are appealing lunch stops.

Where to stay near Talkeetna

Steps from shops and cafes, Talkeetna Cabins (rates start at $285 per night) is a dapper little complex comprising four modern log cabins and a three-bedroom log house set around a lawn. Each comes with a full kitchen.

It's a few minutes from town and lacks the area's historic funkiness, but Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge (rates start at $299 per night) offers a nice range of creature comforts after a day of driving or hiking (or bouncing around in a tiny flightseeing plane). The property's 212 upscale rooms are set among several buildings. Amenities include multiple restaurants, a gym and a back terrace on a bluff with postcard-worthy views of Denali.

Exploring Anchorage

Home to nearly 40% of Alaska's 733,000 residents, Anchorage ranges across nearly 2,000 square miles — an area larger than Rhode Island. With its big-box stores and wide, well-maintained roads, the city can feel oddly familiar and even a bit tame at first. But make no mistake: It's surrounded by rugged wilderness, from the craggy peaks of the immense Chugach Mountain range to the vast waters of Cook Inlet and its Knik and Turnagain arms.

Anchorage is an excellent base for hiking, kayaking, mountain biking and skiing day trips. It's a gateway to the pristine rivers and fjords of the Kenai Peninsula and has a diverse restaurant scene. It's also home to a pair of the state's most impressive cultural attractions: the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Anchorage Museum.

From Mat-Su Valley, you'll reach the turnoff for the Alaska Native Heritage Center on your way into the city. Opened in 1999, this 26-acre, wooded campus is Indigenous-operated and comprises six village settings that interpret the cultures of the state's 11 Native groups.

Time your visit to watch the engaging demonstrations of traditional games and dances in the central hall. Then, explore the outdoor villages. They are set around a lake and offer the opportunity to converse with tribal members, view crafts demonstrations and listen to stories.

Continue into downtown Anchorage and walk around Town Square Park and along Fourth and Fifth avenues. Pick up a snack from one of the reindeer hot dog carts or have dinner at the trendy restaurant Whiskey & Ramen .

Architecturally, the city is a mishmash. Nearly all of its buildings were constructed after 1964, when the Good Friday Earthquake (which had a devastating magnitude of 9.2) virtually leveled it. The Anchorage Museum occupies a striking glass structure and requires at least two hours to fully explore. It contains the engrossing Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center gallery; it showcases more than 600 Native Alaskan artifacts, including fishing and hunting tools, clothing, masks and wood carvings.

There's also the first-rate Art of the North gallery, a comprehensive Alaska history exhibit, an interactive science and technology center with a planetarium, an always-compelling array of rotating exhibits and an excellent restaurant.

Beyond downtown, two adjacent neighborhoods, Midtown and Spenard, contain many of Anchorage's best restaurants. In the former, duck into Kinley's for inventive modern American fare and Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria for great people-watching.

Spenard notables include Spenard Roadhouse , with its elevated gastropub fare, and Pho Lena , which serves excellent Laotian and Thai food in a modest building that once clearly held a Pizza Hut.

Take in a dramatic view of the city and surrounding Cook Inlet with a climb up to the top of Flattop Mountain, said to be the most climbed peak in Alaska. Although the trail is just 1.5 miles each way, you'll gain about 1,500 feet in elevation.

Where to stay in Anchorage

Within walking distance of many restaurants and attractions, the upscale Marriott Anchorage Downtown (rates start at $391 per night or 43,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) rises 20 stories. Rooms on the upper floors have fantastic views of the water and mountains.

In Midtown, Aloft Anchorage is a great choice for road-trippers as it offers free parking and easy access to major roads (rates start at $256 per night or 32,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night). It's a gleaming four-story property with nice views of the Chugach Range and an inviting lobby bar, a well-equipped fitness room and one of the nicer indoor hotel pools in town.

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