Surrounded by the ice and rock of the Don Sheldon Amphitheater, within sight of the majestic Denali Peak, nestled in a breathtaking and perfect wilderness: the Sheldon Chalet on Ruth Glacier is a place like no other in the world. Built amidst the rugged Alaskan mountains, the accommodation offers guests outstanding luxury and exquisite service - all with a view of the picturesque Denali National Park.
Completely remote and only accessible by air, the lodge is a masterpiece of engineering. Situated on a nunatak, a rocky outcrop in the glacier, it has electricity and running water. A heater provides cozy warmth and a cedar wood sauna for soothing relaxation in the evening. The kitchen allows the chefs to conjure up first-class menus that meet the highest culinary standards miles away from civilization. Read more.
The idea for this unique chalet goes back to Don Sheldon. From the mid-1950s, he and his partner Brad Washburn spent ten years mapping the vast and previously unexplored Alaska Range. This undertaking was only made possible by Sheldon's invention: he installed retractable skis on his plane, which allowed landings in dangerous snow and ice conditions.
The only possible base for the two daredevils for their adventures was Nunatak, the rocky outcrop in the amphitheater. At this altitude, acclimatization is easy and the microclimate there ensures pleasant temperatures all year round. In 1966, Sheldon and his wife Roberta built a hexagonal mountain house on this site, which over the years became the base camp for many first ascents, ski tours and hikes.
However, it was their children Kate and Robert who realized the Sheldons' big dream. After the death of their parents, they decided to honor their legacy and put their plans for an outstanding luxury chalet into action. They began construction work in 2015. Three years later, they had created one of the most exclusive lodges around.
Today, personal guides ensure that adventure seekers and nature lovers get to know the Don Sheldon Amphitheater in all its beauty. Equipped with comprehensive safety equipment, they roam the 35-square-mile area on private excursions in the best mountaineering tradition. No previous mountaineering experience is required.
The lodge is always worth a visit. However, the activities on offer change with the seasons: In spring, magical auroras shimmer across the sky, while the powder snow invites you to endless backcountry ski tours. Under the summer midnight sun and in warm temperatures, you can watch avalanches in the distance, explore snow caves and crevasses or go climbing. Autumn is ideal for observing stars and meteor showers from a viewing platform. In winter, guests can experience the mountains in a completely new light on a night-time glacier hike, when the soft glow of the full moon illuminates the surrounding peaks.
Height of the base:
591m
Altitude of the ski area:
Up to 3,000 meters
Size of the area:
505 km2
Season: From mid-December
Average snow precipitation:
18m at 1,800m.
Flying machine: A-Star Eurocopter (4 guests + guide + pilot)
Heli launch site: Short journey (5 minutes) by shuttle
Countless, around 200
Longest descent: 1,280m
Average descent: 760m
Group size:
max. 3 groups of 4 guests + 1 guide per helicopter
Purcell and Selkirk Mountains
40% alpine, 60% forest
Our verdict on the Sheldon Chalet
A stay at the Sheldon Chalet gives you an insight into an untouched wilderness that used to be the preserve of hardened mountaineers and adventurers. The landscape is magical and unspoiled, the lodge cozy and comfortable. This unique combination of nature and comfort alone makes the Sheldon Chalet a magnificent experience. However, its exclusivity, the various activities and the first-class service make this unique retreat completely unforgettable.
Do you have any questions about the Sheldon Chalet?
We know the Sheldon Chalet personally and are always happy to answer your questions. You can reach us via chat or info@travel-zone.ch or by phone (Mon - Fri 9.00-18.00): +41 41 552 55 00.
The Sheldon Chalet can only be reached by plane or helicopter. The transfer is by Talkeetna Air Taxi or K2 Aviation. After landing, supplies and equipment are unloaded, followed by a hike of almost five hundred meters up to Sheldon Mountain House.
Destination airport Intercontinental flight: via e.g. Chicago, Seattle, Denver to Anchorage
Nearest airport: Anchorage
Transfer: Helicopter
Transfer time: 20 minutes