It’s not every day you’re in Alaska, but it’s even more rare that you’re in Denali National Park on a glacier. If you’re planning to propose, then you’ll need to be prepared. Here are some pointers for planning a surprise proposal in Denali National Park.
Finding Denali
Denali National Park is located south of Fairbanks, Alaska and just north of Talkeetna, Alaska. While you could drive to Denali National Park, it’s still a LONG hike to reach the mountain. Planning a surprise proposal in Denali is not a feat for the faint of heart, but proposals are a big deal and worth the extra logistical hoops.
The fastest and easiest way to land at the base of the beast of a mountain is by plane. There are several small flight tour companies that offer these trips daily between May and September. The rest of the year, weather is too harsh, cold and snowy to land safely. K2 Aviation is the tour operator I have used multiple times, flying from Talkeetna. The tours range 1-2 hours long and the pilots are personable, but very educated and experienced in backcountry navigation.
When scheduling your reservation, I recommend mentioning that you’re planning a surprise proposal in Denali. Planes are smaller than most people are used to, so additional backpacks or bags are discouraged. You’ll be required to weigh in when you check in for your flight and you’re required to have everything on you that you plan to bring on the plane. Small planes have to balance properly for safe take-offs and landings.
Be Prepared for Time on the Glacier
Denali is remote – so remote there is no cell phone service, bathrooms, or other amenities – but this is also what makes it so beautiful and wild. While planning a surprise proposal in Denali, you will want to dress for the weather. To be clear, the weather could range from single digits to 50* at any given time, and change in an instant. To ensure you and your partner are comfortable, warm, and able to enjoy your time in backcountry the key is layers. Some days may be colder than others, but landing on a glacier is rarely warm by any standard. Here are some easy ways to make sure you stay warm:
- Battery-operated heated layers
There are so many options for heated gloves, socks, vests and hats nowadays. Or rock it old-school and prepare to shake your little Hot Hands packets to slide in your pockets. Heated layers or hand warmers are very helpful to stay warm while taking photos after you propose - Base Layers
Purchasing high quality polyester or wool base layers will keep heat close to your skin and is still light enough that you can layer over it without looking too bulky. Nobody wants to look like the Michelin Man or Pillsbury Doughboy for their proposal day. And yes, get the pants AND the top base layers. - Down-filled Layers
Down-filled jackets, vests, and pullovers will surely keep you well insulated and warm, are easily layered, but can also be packed down into a small bag and are very lightweight.
The Perfect Shot of the Proposal
When you land on Ruth Glacier, you’re essentially in a bowl that is surrounded by mountains. The area around the plane is where you’re asked to stay (glaciers are unpredictable) due to safety reasons. When choosing where you’ll propose, decided if you want the plane in the shots or not. On clear days, Denali is out in the background and makes a stunning backdrop. Also consider where the sun is at (on a clear day) to make sure you avoid harsh shadows on your faces. If you have questions, your photographer (ahem, hopefully me!) should be able to set you up with the perfect spot for light and background.
Your photographer should also be subtle enough to make it all seem unsuspecting until THE MOMENT you drop to your knee. Did I mention I am great with secrets?
Planning a surprise proposal in Denali will come with challenges – weather is often the biggest of them. Weather around Denali can change in a blink of an eye and become dangerous quickly. Often, the flight charter will try to reschedule you for a later flight the same day. If another day is not an option, there are places surrounding Talkeetna that still have views of Denali and would be excellent backdrops for your proposal.
Don’t Forget
As long as you come prepared with layers, a ring, and a knowledgeable photographer then you will be set to pull off a proposal with the partner of your dreams. Planning a surprise proposal in Denali National Park is whimsical – the perfect start to a new beginning as a fiancé.
