Experience the Thrill of K2 Aviation’s Top of the World High Altitude Tour out of Talkeetna Alaska
If you’re searching for the ultimate flightseeing adventure in Alaska, look no further than K2 Aviation’s Top of the World tour. This tour is for the more intrepid traveler ready to reach an altitude in Denali National Park that few ever meet. If summiting North America’s highest peak isn’t on your bucket list, this high-flying alternative offers an opportunity to get close to Denali’s summit which reaches 20,310ft (6,190m). Whether you’re an avid explorer, a photographer, or simply a traveler seeking the trip of a lifetime, this tour delivers views of Alaska’s most iconic landscapes.
What is the Top of the World Tour?
The Top of the World tour is a unique high altitude experience designed to take passengers near the summit and around the north face of Denali. Departing from Talkeetna, this tour offers a front-row seat to some of the most stunning scenery in the world. You’ll fly alongside immense glaciers, past jagged ridge lines, and over snow-covered peaks, all while listening to narration from expert pilots who share insights about the geography and history of the Alaska Range.
The aircraft used for this tour is a De Havilland Otter, specifically N320KT, our only Otter equipped with oxygen. As this tour may reach an altitude of over 20,000ft in an unpressurized plane, oxygen is required for up to a half hour. During your briefing, the pilot will walk you through how your oxygen mask works. Like the commercial airliners, the bag does not have to inflate for the mask to operate, but to ensure every mask is supplying oxygen, your pilot will help you test the oxygen flow on the ground via a gauge on the mask before your flight and once again before you reach the altitude in which they are required.
Highlights of the Tour
1. Denali from Above
The Top of the World tour provides a rare opportunity to see Denali from an altitude that offers panoramic views of the mountain’s immense summit. This is the closest you can get to the summit of North America’s tallest peak without climbing it! From May to July during climbing season, you may even get a glimpse of climbers on the summit as seen in the video below.
2. Expert Pilot Commentary
K2 Aviation’s seasoned pilots are more than just skilled aviators—they’re tour guides who bring the landscape to life with their deep knowledge of Denali National Park, its history, and the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Our planes are equipped with two way headsets giving you the opportunity to ask any question that come to mind while you are soaring above the mountains.
3. Unparalleled Photography Opportunities
Photographers will be in heaven as they capture once-in-a-lifetime aerial shots of the top of Denali and its surrounding wilderness. The dramatic lighting, ever-changing cloud formations, and pristine snowfields make for spectacular compositions. If you are lucky enough to see climbers making their way to the summit during climbing season, a zoom lens is recommended to be able to capture them.
4. Tour Exclusivity
Our high-altitude flightseeing tour is limited to 20 seats per day. The non-glacier landing tour departs at 11 AM and our glacier landing add on departs at 4 PM. This tour runs from May 15 to September 15, and space is limited. Booking in advance is recommended so you don’t miss the chance to get up close to Denali’s summit.
14k camp on the West Buttress route of Denali
Climbers just about to summit Denali
Why Choose K2 Aviation?
Choosing K2 Aviation means flying with a team that combines experience, safety, and a passion for sharing Alaska’s incredible landscapes. Our skilled pilots have extensive knowledge of the Alaska Range.
With decades of experience and a strong connection to Talkeetna, we take pride in providing safe, memorable adventures. Our commitment to customer service ensures you’ll feel prepared, informed, and excited for your flight. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, K2 Aviation is dedicated to making your Alaska experience unforgettable.
Book your adventure today!
When: May 15 – September 15
Cost: Â $537.08 per person without glacier landing & $672.70 per person with glacier landing
Trip Time: 2 hours without glacier landing & 2.5 with glacier landing
Departure Times: 11am without glacier landing & 4pm with glacier landing
*There is a 6 person minimum to operate this flight
*not suitable for children under 13