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Mountain · Talkeetna, Alaska
Denali
The highest point in North America, at 6,190 meters, covered in glaciers and almost always shrouded in clouds. Scenic flights from Talkeetna circle the massif and in some cases land on a glacier.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Denali
Denali, in the Alaska Range, is 6,190 meters high and is the highest point in North America. Measured from the surrounding plain up to the summit, it rises about 5,500 meters—more than Everest above the Tibetan plateau. For the Koyukon Athabaskans it is called Deenaalee, “the high one.” The name Mount McKinley, given by a prospector in 1896, was adopted by the federal government; the state and the park use Denali.
The first ascent of the summit was made on June 7, 1913, by Hudson Stuck, Harry Karstens, Walter Harper and Robert Tatum. Today, hundreds of climbers attempt the ascent each year, almost always between May and July, flying from Talkeetna to the Kahiltna Glacier.
For non-climbers, the most sought-after way to see the mountain up close is a scenic flight. Small planes depart from Talkeetna, fly over the ice valleys—like the amphitheater of the Ruth Glacier, surrounded by granite walls—and circle the summit on clear days. Some flights land on a glacier, allowing time for a walk on the snow.
Weather on the mountain changes rapidly and creates its own clouds. Flights depend on conditions and can be postponed; on clear days Denali is visible from Talkeetna and from viewpoints along the Parks Highway.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours for the scenic flight, depending on route and glacier landing.
Best time
In the flight season, between May and September; mornings generally have a better chance of clear skies. Leave a few spare days, as flights are postponed in bad weather.
How to get there
Scenic flights depart from the Talkeetna airstrip, a few minutes from town. The summit is about 95 km northwest of the village. Buy your flight in advance and monitor the mountain forecast the day before.
Tip
If your budget allows, choose a flight that lands on a glacier and bring sunglasses and warm clothing. Keep a day free to reschedule if the weather closes in.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Denali
How tall is Mount Denali?
6,190 meters, the highest point in North America.
How can I see Mount Denali up close?
On scenic flights that depart from Talkeetna, which circle the massif and in some cases land on a glacier.
Why is Denali also called Mount McKinley?
The name McKinley was given in 1896 and is the one adopted by the federal government; Denali, of Athabascan origin, is the name used by the state of Alaska and by the park.