ExperienceExploration

All exploration in the 35 square mile Don Sheldon Amphitheater is rooted in the tradition of mountaineering. To begin, your guides will properly fit you for your climbing harness, snowshoes, helmet and poles. Once properly fitted, you will attend our Glacier School where your guides will give basic instruction on glacier safety, rope team etiquette and what to expect for the adventure of the day. No previous mountaineering experience is necessary. There is something for everyone.

Another exploration exists at Sheldon Chalet that we call “Adventure In Place”. Our majestic location invites you to experience a peace and calm that will relax and refresh your spirit. Experience adventure in place on deck around the fire pit surrounded by grandeur, in the relaxing sauna with views of Denali’s summit, or inside with your favorite book.
Being here is simply grand.

Fall

September, October

Autumn features the return of the aurora borealis as the night skies bid farewell to the midnight sun. Evenings sparkle brilliantly with heavenly displays of the aurora and stars, and winter’s snowfall begins to blanket the massive amphitheater which averages over 100 feet of new snow per year. World-class stargazing on our observation deck is enhanced by the cozy fire and satisfying beverages custom crafted by your private chef.

WINTER

November, December, January, February

Winter on Denali exhibits prime aurora borealis and meteorological viewing, full moon glacier treks, cozy fireside evenings and comforting saunas. Late morning golden sunrises illuminate the multitude of peaks in the 35 square mile Don Sheldon Amphitheater lighting up each in a wild color show as it fades into pastel and bronze sunsets in the late afternoon.

SPRING

March, April

Days and nights are perfectly balanced for both aurora viewing and sunny glacier adventuring. Fresh powder from the winter blankets the glacier for endless first tracks, backcountry skiing, climbing, and crevasse exploration. When your adventuresome spirit has been satisfied for the day, return to Sheldon Chalet for a rejuvenating sauna, gourmet dinner and a hopeful dance of the aurora.

Summer

May, June, July, August

Summer’s midnight sun provides indulgent days of epic glacier adventure with temps reaching 60F and endless hours of golden alpenglow and darkness is but a wink. The sun’s never-ending rays emanate warmth to the nunatak while melting the snowy peaks into a spectacular display of thundering avalanches that cascade down miles away. And seasonal foraged delicacies such as edible wildflowers, wild greens and berries are artfully featured by our Chef during your meals.