Programs in the United States - Alaska
The Acknowleged Alaska Range Specialists since 1980
American Alpine Institute has been guiding in Alaska since 1980. We operate throughout Denali National Park and Preserve, both on Denali proper (formerly known as Mt. McKinley) and in the Ruth Gorge, Little Switzerland, and every other major climbing destination. In addition, we operate in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. In 2002, when concessioners on Denali re-applied for their permits, the Institute was ranked the #1 applicant by the National Park Service.
Programs in the United States - Alaska
The Acknowleged Alaska Range Specialists since 1980
The American Alpine Institute has been guiding Denali since 1980 and has an outstanding record of safety and summit success. This guided climb ascends the beautiful West Buttress route, first pioneered by Bradford Washburn in 1951. This is no ordinary mountain trek though. Instead, this is a demanding expedition across high and steep glaciers in arctic air to the tallest point in North America, to the top of one of the coveted "Seven Summits." There is no doubt. This is the adventure of a lifetime!
- Location:Alaska Range
- Season:May - June
- Length:21 days
- Cost:$12,250
Denali's West Rib is a beautiful, three-mile long ridge that rises dramatically from an 11,000-foot base. In its 9000-foot vertical rise it offers a full range of snow and ice climbing challenges, from ascents and traverses of narrowly winding crests, to sustained technical challenge on 55-degree ice faces. In addition to its variety, the route's dramatic outline and nearly direct rise to the mountain's summit add to its appeal.
- Location:Alaska Range
- Season:May
- Length:21 days
- Cost:Starts at $11,900
First climbed in 1961, the Cassin Ridge rises 8000 feet from the very bottom of Denali's South face to within a few yards of the true summit of the mountain. Steep snow, ice, and mixed climbing make this one of the most sought-after big mountain alpine climbs in the world.
- Location:Alaska Range
- Season:May - July
- Length:21 days
- Cost:Call for pricing
An adventurous introduction to big mountain expeditions, you'll learn the climbing skills and techniques used in modern alpine mountaineering and earn the opportunity to climb several beautiful peaks in the heart of the Alaska Range. Prepare for Denali or other major climbs around the world.
- Location:Alaska Range, Alaska
- Season:April - June
- Length:10 days
- Cost:$6,995 (3:1 Climber to Guide Ratio)
Introducing Alaska and expedition climbing, participants with previous mountaineering experience will learn the skills to be a rope team leader on moderate glacial terrain while intermediate climbers review snow and ice techniques, protective systems, and crevasse rescue. All participants attempt ascents at a beginner or intermediate level in the Wrangell-Saint Elias Mountains.
- Location:St. Elias Range, Alaska
- Season:May - June
- Length:Varies
- Cost:Please contact AAI for pricing
Little Switzerland is the name given to a series of dramatic granite spires jutting up out of the Pika Glacier like broken teeth. Found just 35 miles south of Denali, this sub-range provides ample opportunities for climbers to ascend dramatic towers in single pushes from a base camp on the glacier. Little Swiss is an alpine playground in a grand setting.
- Location:Alaska Range
- Season:June - July
- Length:12 Days
- Cost:Call or email for pricing
The Central Alaska Range is made up of the peaks and valleys that surround Denali, Mount Hunter, and Mount Foraker. In the deep glacial gorges that drop from Denali's flanks sit some of the most impressive and awe-inspiring mountains in world.
- Location:Central Alaska Range
- Season:May - July
- Length:8-22 Days
- Cost:Ratio Pricing - See Dates and Details
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