Loading map...

CIK destination photo
FYU destination photo

CIKFYU

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a more intimate view of the Draanjik River's extreme meanders and the dense concentration of oxbow lakes within the Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge during the short hop to Fort Yukon.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🚣‍♂️

Draanjik River Loops

Exquisite views of the highly sinuous Draanjik River, showcasing dramatic oxbows and river migration patterns.

💧

Yukon Flats Wetlands

A mesmerizing mosaic of thousands of thermokarst lakes and ponds reflecting the Alaskan sky.

🦅

Wildlife Habitats

Prime visibility of the wetlands where moose and migratory waterfowl are frequently spotted from low altitudes.

🏁

Fort Yukon Confluence

Aerial perspective of the area where the Porcupine and Draanjik rivers approach the mighty Yukon River.

Choose the left side for optimal lighting during afternoon flights to avoid the direct northern sun glare. This side offers the best views of the intricate river geometry immediately after takeoff from Chalkyitsik. Late August offers stunning yellow foliage from the local larch trees.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Brooks Range Horizon

On exceptionally clear days, the jagged white peaks of the Brooks Range are visible on the far northern horizon.

🛶

Porcupine River Valley

Broad views looking north toward the massive Porcupine River basin as it flows toward the Yukon confluence.

🌲

Boreal Taiga

Expansive views of the black spruce and willow forests that define the subarctic interior landscape.

🧊

Permafrost Features

Observe patterned ground and polygonal soil structures unique to the high-latitude permafrost environment.

The right side is ideal for morning flights when the sun is in the southeast, illuminating the distant mountain ranges to the north. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinct change in vegetation as the elevation shifts slightly toward the northern uplands.

Top Activities in Fort Yukon
Route Information

Distance: 67 km (42 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 7 min

Departure: CIK (66.6449966431, -143.74000549299998)

Arrival: FYU (66.57150268554689, -145.25)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.