Denali Backcountry Photo Excursion by Helicopter Denali, AK

Is transportation provided?

Transportation is provided to and from all Denali area hotels.

How long is the tour?

Tour duration is approximately 3.5 hour to 4 hours from pick up to drop off, depending on the weather conditions. This includes round trip flight time of approximately 15 minutes, pre-trip safety briefing and gear assessment, and about 2.5 hours on the mountain.

Is the tour children appropriate?

This tour is recommended for guests age 13 years old and above.

What should I wear?

Please be prepared, there are no trails and the tundra is uneven terrain which can be challenging. Comfortable and supportive shoes are recommended. Weather can change quickly in Denali so bring an extra layer and a raincoat. Temperature, time of day, amount of wind and general weather conditions all factor into how many mosquitos will be out. It's recommended to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect yourself from mosquitos.

What should I bring?

This excursion is in more exposed terrain at higher elevation, and weather can change quickly in Denali. Bring an extra layer to insulate and protect from wind, a hat, gloves and a raincoat. Comfortable shoes are recommended – there is walking on variable terrain. Don’t forget your camera, lenses, and extra battery! Tripods, polarizing filters, and graduated neutral density filters will be provided.

What if I don't have a camera?

You can use your smartphones and drones on this tour. Denali Photo Guides also offers digital cameras with long zoom lenses for rent. This includes a memory card which you can keep afterwards.

What's included in the tour?

The tour includes a wildlife safety briefing, roundtrip transportation from your hotel to the helipad, a 15-minute round trip flight to and from the mountain location, and 2.5 hours on the mountain with an expert guide and personalized instruction. Tripods and filters are provided for use.

Does this tour have any physical restrictions?

There is a maximum weight limit per person of 300lbs. There are no trails and the tundra is uneven terrain which can be challenging, please come prepared. There will not be comfortable places to sit for the duration of the excursion and the helicopter may be challenging to get in and out of.

Can this tour accommodate special needs?

This adventure tour is not wheelchair accessible. If you have a special request, please make a note in the comment section above when making your reservation.

How many people will be on this tour?

There is a maximum of 4 participants per tour.

What if there are unfavorable weather conditions?

For safety reasons, this tour will only operate in fair weather. The tour operator only charters TEMSCO Helicopters to fly you into the backcountry. TEMSCO Helicopters has been flying in Alaska since 1958 and is a TOPS operator, which means they hold the highest safety standards, exceeding those of the FAA.

Is there a bathroom?

Once in the backcountry, there will be no facilities for over 2 hours. Your guide will have toilet paper, trash bags, wipes, and hand sanitizer should you need it. You will have the opportunity to use the restroom before getting on the helicopter.

Can I bring my drone?

Yes, drones are allowed on the backcountry photo excursions and private tours.

Will food or drinks be provided?

No food or beverages are offered on this tour. Please bring your own.