Experience the delight of standing upon the ancient Yanert Glacier on Denali's original glacier landing helicopter tour! Fed from the precipice of Mt. Deborah, which towers over the glacial valley that you'll land on. We invite you to truly encounter the great Alaskan Wilderness.
Your helicopter tour will begin at our private heliport. From take-off, you'll soar over the rolling hills and sharp, jagged peaks of the Alaskan Backcountry as you travel up the currents of the glacially-fed Yanert River with your experienced pilot as your guide of the area. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for caribou, moose, bear, and dall sheep on the way.
Upon landing on the glacier, you will be free to roam the icy terrain. Have a drink of the freshest water this earth has to offer. Take home an ancient rock emerged from the crevices of the massive ice moraines. But, most importantly take it all in. Let your mind capture the imagery a camera never could. See the perfect shades of blue, wonder at the towering walls of the mountain surrounding you, and fall in love with Alaska the way it was meant to be seen.
Please note: Guests weighing 250lbs or more, with all clothing and camera, are required to purchase a seat surcharge. Extra space will be reserved on the helicopter. Guests are not able to stay on the helicopter at the glacier. Please dress appropriately for weather and conditions. Children under 2 can ride for free on adult's lap.
Any guest with a significant weight discrepancy at the time of tour may be refused service. Please take care to acquire as accurate weights as possible when making a booking. Duration: 2.25 hours (Flight time: 50 minutes. Glacier time: 20 minutes)
Will I see Denali?
Mt. Denali is a spectacular sight to see, however we do not guarantee that our tours will provide you with a view. Denali is so massive that it creates its own weather system, making it nearly impossible to predict whether it will be visible or not.
What is the best time to take my tour?
Predicting the weather in the interior of Alaska is nearly impossible, especially far in advance. The best time to book your tour is whatever time works best for you!
Will I see wildlife?
Wildlife is abundant and sightings are possible, however this is not a designated wildlife tour and nothing can be guaranteed. On occasion, we may see Dall sheep, moose, bears, caribou or golden eagles.
Is someone who is pregnant allowed to participate in this tour?
You should discuss this with your doctor prior to your trip.
Is this tour ADA accessible?
Unfortunately, this tour cannot accommodate a person who is confined to a wheel chair. The only exception is to charter the helicopter. There is an ADA lift that can raise the guest into the helicopter, but they must be able to move from one seat to another. This is on a case by case basis and needs approval from the operator management.
Where will I sit in the helicopter? Am I guaranteed to sit with my family?
Seating in the aircraft generally consists of 2 passengers in the front and 4 in the back seat. Seating is based on weight and balance of all guests in the helicopter. Requests of where you sit cannot be guaranteed, nor can who you fly with however, we will strive to keep your groups together if possible.
What is the temperature in the aircraft?
Our helicopters are climate controlled. They are kept at a comfortable temperature for everyone on board. Guests are encouraged to dress in layers.
Can I talk to the pilot?
Each passenger has a headset with the ability to talk with the pilot and everyone else in the aircraft. Feel free to ask questions.
What is the altitude flown on your tours?
We typically fly between 500 and 2,000 feet above the ground on our tour. Generally, we do not exceed 7,000 feet in altitude.
Is there a weight restriction?
There is a weight surcharge, not a restriction. This is for safety, weight and balance of the helicopter, and passenger comfort. The weight surcharge is 0 for any passenger 250lbs or over.
Are there child prices?
Adult and child prices are the same for this tour. Children under 24 months will not need a ticket because they are considered lap children. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted to fly without a guardian. A parental consent form is required for all passengers ages 12 to 17 that will be flying unaccompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
What if the weather is bad?
It wouldn't be Alaska without the occasional inclement weather. If the weather is going to affect the quality of tour, we will cancel the departure. If you are not able to reschedule, you will receive a full refund.
What is the temperature on the glacier?
The average temperature is between 15-20°F cooler than on the ground
Will I see any wildlife or bears on this tour?
Wildlife is abundant and sightings are possible on any tour, however this is not a designated wildlife tour and nothing can be guaranteed.
Are there any age restrictions for children?
Children must be at least two years of age to participate.
Can I bring a backpack?
All bags must be stored at the helicopter base and are not allowed on tour.
Can I bring my own food or drink?
Food and drink are not allowed during this tour.
Are food and drink included?
No food or drink are provided while on tour.
Are there any physical requirements for this tour?
Guests must be comfortable walking short distances on uneven and occasionally icy surfaces.
What type of clothing should I wear?
Layered clothing, hats, gloves and sunglasses are strongly recommended.
What gear will I be outfitted with?
We provide NEOS brand glacier overboots. The boots have thick soles with excellent traction for our guests' walk on the glacier experience. Boots are available in a wide variety of sizes from XS to XXL. Guests should wear sturdy and comfortable shoes. NEOS are functional, user friendly, and they slip on right over your shoes.
Do you offer any discounts or promotions?
We offer the local wholesale rates for all of our tours because we feel that everyone should get the same lowest price possible regardless of how many excursions you book. No tricks, no gimmicks, no hidden fees.
Do you offer tours for large groups?
Definitely, arrangements of tours for groups or large families are possible. Please contact us with your group requirements.
Can multiple families book this tour and be together?
Yes! Multiple families may join the same tour as long as adequate space is available and the maximum is not exceeded.
What if I am unable to print my ticket before I arrive in Denali?
All reservations are saved under the name you purchased your excursions and are kept on file with your tour operator. Having your tickets in-hand is the optimal choice to avoid confusion because the directions and meeting instructions are included. Please contact us if you are unable to print the tickets.
