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Denali National Park is a good place to explore the Wilderness of Alaska. It was created in 1917, and by 1980 its territory had been significantly increased. One road passes along it - Park Road, along which special buses travel. Its length is about 148 km (92 miles). The landscape of the park consists of valleys and high mountain passes. Here you will see not only wild animals, but also beautiful landscapes.
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| Denali National Park Alaska Wilderness |
- The area of Denali National Park is over 24,000 sq. Km.
Denali National Park is open all year round, although fewer services are provided in winter. Summer is the period from May 20 to mid-September, when buses start moving along the park road. However, you should be aware that the road opens completely on June 8th.
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| Denali National Park Alaska Wilderness |
There are 6 camps on the territory, you can stay here for a total of 14 days a year. Different campsites can accommodate from 7 to 147 people at the same time. Some have only tents, others have dedicated space for vehicles. For self-accommodation on the territory you need a special permit. You must take enough food with you.
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| Denali National Park Alaska Wilderness |
Activity
During the summer, the main activity at Denali National Park Wilderness Refuge is bus rides in the park. They allow you to get to the most interesting places and observe spectacular landscapes.
The main activities include:
Walk to the Savage River. You can walk here (19 km one way), get there by car (the road is closed for autumn and winter) or by bus (only in summer, travel time including stops is about an hour). You can follow the trail that crosses the river over the bridge and walk on both sides of the Savage, or take the alpine trail between the campsite and the river canyon. Dress warmly as this is a very windy area.
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| Denali National Park Alaska Wilderness |
Hiking can be along marked trails (they are few, less than 3 km long) or off-road. There are not so many trails equipped here in order to preserve nature. Most of the hiking routes are organized near the entrance to the Denali National Park, and those located further lead to rivers, lakes, canyons. For those who prefer more relaxed walks, the trail to Horseshoe Lake is suitable, and for those who like steep ascents and descents, the route to Mount Healy with panoramic views. More information about the trails can be found on the website ; a special map is also available .
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| Denali National Park Alaska Wilderness |
Ranger-led hikes. Rough terrain, stream crossings and wilderness dives await you. Such hikes are suitable for more experienced and prepared tourists.
Cycling along the main road of the Denali National Park. The road is paved up to 15 miles (about 24 km), then gravel begins. Bicycles and safety equipment must be rented before going to the park, the service is not available on site. You can get to the point you need in Denali by bus, there are places for bicycles.
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| Denali National Park Alaska Wilderness |
Flying in a small plane. An interesting landscape and beautiful landscapes can be viewed from the air. Landings on glaciers are even offered.
Observation of animals. The best way is from a bus going through the territory of the Denali National Park. The seats are set higher than usual, allowing you to see a lot off the curb. In many places, the road rises up, and passengers have excellent views of the forest and surroundings. It is best to take binoculars with you.
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| Denali National Park Alaska Wilderness |
Special activities have been developed for children and families; you can read more about them on the website.
How to get to Denali National Park
It is convenient to travel here by car. The turn to the Wilderness sanctuary is at mile 237 on Alaska Highway 3 (also called the George Parks Highway). The nearest cities are Anchorage (about 5 hours by car) south of the park and Fairbanks (about 2 hours by car) north of Denali National Park. A bus stop running through the park, as well as a visitor center, are located near the entrance.
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| Denali National Park Alaska Wilderness |
In warmer months, you can also get here by trains on the Alaska Railroad. Trains run daily from Anchorage to Fairbanks and back, stopping at Denali National Park.