Denali National Park, AK

Travel Guide
Photo provided by State of Alaska/Matt Hage
This vast Alaskan wilderness of rock and ice includes hiking trails, grizzly and black bears and the highest mountain in North America.

Take a wild Alaskan adventure through Denali National Park and Preserve’s 6 million acres (2.4 million hectares). This enormous subarctic landscape of glaciers, mountains and forests surrounds Denali, North America’s highest peak, formerly known as Mount McKinley. Rising 20,320 feet (6,194 meters), the park’s centerpiece is often shrouded in clouds. Build time into your plans to let clouds clear for the best view.

To protect the wildlife and terrain, park traffic is restricted. Only one road leads into Denali, the 92-mile (148-kilometer) Denali Park Road. The first 15 miles (24 kilometers) are paved and can be accessed by all vehicles. Walk, bike or take the bus to venture farther along the road and deeper into the park.

Two types of bus lines serve Denali. Informal shuttle buses let you hop on and off anywhere along their routes. Tour buses provide narration and stop at designated places. Visit Denali National Park’s official website for timetables and ticket prices.

Explore the park on foot, a great way to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Select from numerous trails ranging from moderate to strenuous. One popular walk for experienced hikers is the Mount Healy Overlook Trail, an arduous trek taking 3 to 4 hours. An easier choice is the Savage River Loop Trail, a moderate 2-mile (3-kilometer) walk. Hiking off trail is also possible obtain a permit in person no more than a day before you begin your journey.

Many people come to Denali to see the wildlife. Among the animals that roam freely here are grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, caribou, moose and Dall sheep.

Camp under the stars in a designated campsite or pitch a tent almost anywhere in the wilderness. Alternatively, stay at a lodge.

The park is 240 miles (390 kilometers) north of Anchorage and 120 miles (190 kilometers) south of Fairbanks. Both cities have airports. The entrance to the park is located along Alaska Highway 3.

Access Denali National Park and Preserve year-round, but be prepared for unpredictable weather. Winters are long and very cold, with heavy snowfall, while summers are damp and cool. Some trails close during winter.

McKinley Chalet Resort
McKinley Chalet Resort
3.5 out of 5
Milepost 238.5 George Parks Hwy, Denali National Park, AK
Fully refundable
The price is ¥18,488 per night from May 16 to May 17
¥18,488
per night
May 16 - May 17
Book a stay at this business-friendly resort in Denali National Park. Enjoy free parking, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise ...
7.8/10 Good! (998 reviews)
"Nice property, front desk was very helpful, friendly and good service!"

Reviewed on Sep 17, 2023

McKinley Chalet Resort
Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge
Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge
5 out of 5
Mile 238.5 George Parks Hwy, Denali National Park, AK
The price is ¥27,809 per night from May 14 to May 15
¥27,809
per night
May 14 - May 15
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly lodge in Denali National Park. Enjoy free parking, 4 restaurants, and 3 bars/lounges. Popular attractions Wilderness ...
8/10 Very Good! (136 reviews)
beautiful property
"place is wonderful. by the river, lots of shops and dining options. close to denali nat park. has property shuttle."

Reviewed on Oct 13, 2023

Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge
Denali Grizzly Bear Resort
Denali Grizzly Bear Resort
2.5 out of 5
Mile Post 231.1 George Parks Highway, Denali National Park, AK
The price is ¥27,885 per night from May 22 to May 23
¥27,885
per night
May 22 - May 23
Stay at this hotel in Denali National Park. Enjoy free parking, 2 coffee shops/cafes, and WiFi (surcharge). Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (464 reviews)
"The property was very nice. Area was stunning. Internet options were pricey as well as the laundry facility. At check in the gal talked very fast and was hard to understand. She said we had instruction in our room for everything but there was nothing. Had to go back several time to to speak with ..."

Reviewed on Sep 19, 2023

Denali Grizzly Bear Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Carlo Creek Cabins - Campsite
Carlo Creek Cabins - Campsite
2 out of 5
224 Parks Hwy, Denali National Park, AK
Stay at this campground in Denali National Park. Enjoy free parking, a garden, and laundry facilities.
5.4/10 (3 reviews)
"Beautiful location and friendly staff/owners.."

Reviewed on Jul 16, 2023

Carlo Creek Cabins - Campsite
Log House on Denali Airstrip at Mile Post 229.5 of the Parks Highway.
Log House on Denali Airstrip at Mile Post 229.5 of the Parks Highway.
Denali National Park and Preserve
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Denali National Park. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Our guests praise the clean rooms ...
10/10 Exceptional! (68 reviews)
Denali home
"The house is adorable, right next to the park entrance, perfectly distributed for three couples, fully equipped (though dishwasher did not work). We loved it."

Reviewed on Sep 27, 2023

Log House on Denali Airstrip at Mile Post 229.5 of the Parks Highway.
☆ Denali Sunset House - Wild scenery with creature comforts!
☆ Denali Sunset House - Wild scenery with creature comforts!
Denali National Park
Stay at this vacation home in Denali National Park. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker.
9.8/10 Exceptional! (71 reviews)
Great place to stay
"This property was great for our family. Enjoyed the remote location, uniqueness of the house and attention to details of the operators."

Reviewed on Sep 18, 2023

☆ Denali Sunset House - Wild scenery with creature comforts!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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