Located in Alaska, between Anchorage and Fairbanks, Denali National Park is home to beautiful land and wildlife. The park calls adventurers of all types with its stunning views and wilderness experience. With over six million acres of protected land, the park offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you are hitting the trails by foot or bike, or relaxing in the comfort of a bus there is plenty to see. Denali National Park is fun for the whole family, with activities ranging from scenic drives to guided tours, there is plenty to do for all ages.

Must-See Places in Denali

Immerse yourself in the one-of-a-kind, untamed beauty of the Alaskan wilderness as you find wildlife such as moose, grizzly bears, and even wolves against stunning backdrops of mountains and rivers. A few of the must-see spots in Denali National Park are:

• Wonder Lake: Located near the end of Denali Park Road, the lake sits with incredible views of the wild. It is a day trip excursion that you can get to by car or bus and you also have the option to camp at the campgrounds near the lake.
• Mt. Denali: You can’t visit Denali National Park without seeing Denali, the highest peak in North America. Sitting at an elevation of 20,310 feet with five glaciers flowing down the mountain, you won’t want to miss this natural beauty.
• Eielson Visitor Center: This visitor center is the perfect place to get panoramic views of the park. It is a prime spot located at mile 66 on Park Road to admire the wilderness while learning from experienced park rangers.

Top Activities and Adventures

With over 6 million acres of land to explore it can be hard to narrow down what parts you want to tackle during your time in the park. The Denali Tour Experience can help you pick the guided tour that best fits what you are looking to get out of the park. Whether that is learning the history of the park, seeing wildlife, or visiting parts of the park that are accessible only to private vehicles, there is a tour for you!

Another great way to see the park is by joining a guided hike. There are three options provided ranging from easy to moderate to strenuous, depending on your hiking experience. This is a great opportunity to learn about the history of the park while fully being immersed in the scenery. The hikes are anywhere from 2.4 miles to 5.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain as high as 1,000 ft, providing the perfect way to get outside and in touch with some of the most beautiful parts of nature.

Denali National Park Visitor’s Guide

As you are planning your trip to Denali, ensure that you are prepared for the Alaskan wilderness. The best time to visit the park is typically in the summer months, anytime from May to September, when the weather is mild and more visitor services and activities are open.

Before you leave for your trip, make sure to:

• Check the weather forecast to make sure you are packing appropriately
• Pack layers of clothing as the weather can change quickly
• Familiarize yourself with the park regulations and safety guidelines
• Be flexible with plans as weather can be unpredictable

While you are on your trip, make sure to:

• Stay on designated trails
• Bring lots of water and snacks when you go hiking
• Keep a safe distance from the wildlife
• Join any possible ranger-led programs or guided to tours to ensure a safe and fun experience in the park!

Where to Stay: The Cabins at Denali

Staying at the Denali Park Village offers a unique experience in the middle of the wilderness. Perfectly located within Denali Park Village, the cabins and lodge rooms allow access to the amenities, you will have access to all the amenities you need to enjoy your stay, including shops, dining options, and fun activities to do during the day.

The cabins are a perfect place for a cozy escape into nature. Each cabin comes with a bathroom, TV, coffee maker, and beautiful views from the deck of the cabin. This is the ideal base for your stay in the park as you are in a prime spot with hiking trails and the Nenana River just outside your door.

Start Planning Your Trip

Whether you’re marveling at the towering peak of Denali, North America’s highest peak, or witnessing a golden sunset cast its glow over the tundra, Denali National Park promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature. Planning your visit during the optimal time of year, and coming prepared for outdoor activities, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your adventure in Denali National Park.