Alaska Photography: Flying over Mount Redoubt

I had some work to do at Lake Clark last week and had to take a helicopter since the ice was not predictable. Landing on Lake Clark can be hazardous in a plane on skis. It was one of those gorgeous days for flying in Alaska so after getting fuel in Kenai, we decided to fly over the Alaska Range instead of through Lake Clark Pass.

Alaska Range at sunrise

We got an early start and got across the inlet as the sun was rising on the Alaska Range. I was able to capture some great shots of the golden light on the mountains.

Just north of Mount Redoubt

Alaska Range

I was concentrating on the Alaska Range to the west of us and when I looked up Mount Redoubt was coming into view. This was before we heard that it was near an eruption. I quickly got a couple shots as we approached.

Mount Redoubt at sunrise

I never get tired of flying around Alaska on days like this. Last week I was flying between villages in the Bethel area in howling winds with temps below zero. I do get tired of those trips.

Approaching Redoubt's summit

We end up flying right over the summit when I snapped a couple shots of Redoubt's steaming vents.

Redoubt's vents

We flew through Redoubt's crater and I got a shot of the western wall.

Redoubt's Crater

On the way back, the light was much harsher. I couldn't help myself though and as Redoubt came into view I photographed it from the south side. This is the side most people do not get to see.