Rising 20,000 feet (6,100 meters) in the Alaskan interior is the mighty Denali, the largest mountain in North America. Denali is located in Denali National Park and Preservea breathtaking landscape of tundra, rivers and mountains spanning 6.1 million acres. But it’s not just the snow-capped peaks of Denali that make this place so special.
The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including 37 species of mammals, including the “big five”: brown bear, moose, wolf, Dall sheep and caribou, as well as 130 species of birds. It's no wonder that Denali National Park is one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Alaska. Make the most of your Denali experience by planning ahead and making reservations and arrangements in advance. Read our expert travel tips on how to make the most of your stay at Denali National Park this summer.
Note to visitors from 2024 to 2026:
Denali Park Road will be open to mile marker 43 through 2026 due to road improvements. Bus tours and transit buses will continue to be available to park visitors and will operate to mile marker 43. The main visitor center will remain open as well as four campgrounds and numerous trails accessible via the park road. Please check with Kantishna-area businesses on their operational plans for lodging and tours through 2026. A free shuttle service will run every 15 minutes during peak hours between the Denali Bus Depot/Denali Visitor Center and the Mountain Vista and Savage River trailheads.
HOW TO GET TO DENALI
Most people arrive in Denali by form, coachor their own vehicle. Take the train from Fairbanks, TalkeetnaOr Anchoring for a memorable scenic drive. Multi-day packages and a la carte coach options also depart from Fairbanks, Talkeetna, and Anchorage. Driving private vehicles is popular among visitors and locals alike, which means some vehicle-accessible areas fill up quickly. Be sure to arrive at your destination early for the best chance of finding a parking spot.
ACCOMMODATION
Book your accommodations first when planning your trip to Denali. Although there is a wide variety of hotels and accommodations options in the Denali area, they fill up quickly. Book early, and if you can't find accommodations in the Denali area, try Talkeetna, Fairbanksor other communities in the Denali Region.
VISIT TO THE PARK
Near the park entrance you can meet the Denali Sled Dogs and enjoy the majority of the park's designated areas hiking trails. Or, take a tourist trip by plane from Denali or Talkeetna to discover the vast landscape from above. Add a Glacier landing for a close-up view of the mountain.
THE Denali National Park Visitor Center Near the park entrance is a great place to start your Denali adventure. Here you can view interpretive signs, pick up park maps, and ask the rangers any questions you have about the park. bus tours Guided tours in Denali National Park are operating at 100% occupancy and masks are required. While guided tours and shuttles are available, schedules and routes are reduced, so be sure to book your tour in advance to guarantee your spot. Visit the Denali National Park Current Conditions Page for a complete list of operational updates.
Can't book a bus tour? There are plenty of other ways to enjoy Denali National Park. The park offers free shuttles which run every 15 minutes during the summer, including the Savage River Shuttle (which takes you to the trailheads at Mountain Vista and Savage River), the Riley Creek Loop Shuttle (connecting all major park visitor facilities), and the Dog Sled Demonstration Shuttle (the only way to get to the dog sled demonstration other than by foot). Wild River The shuttle is a great option if you're short on time and looking for a scenic 2-hour round-trip ride through the park or if you want to access popular hiking trails like the Savage River Trail or the Savage Alpine Trail. Keep an eye out for wildlife, which can be seen throughout the park. Visit the Park shuttle page for a full schedule.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
There is no shortage of adventures in the Denali region, mountain bike has zip lines. You will also find rafting, fishing, hiking, photographic circuitsand more. Again, book early to secure your spot. Be flexible and allow a few days/time slots in case your first choice is booked.
RESTAURANTS
All these activities are sure to whet your appetite. In summer, there is a wide variety of restaurants in the Denali Park Areafrom fine dining with fantastic views to local breweries to pizza and Thai cuisine. During peak summer season, restaurants can fill up early and have longer wait times. If you can, stock up on snacks before your trip to Denali so you have plenty of fuel for your adventures.
If you’re planning to visit Denali or any other top Alaska destination this summer, be sure to book early, plan ahead, and be flexible! These small steps will help you have the ultimate Alaska adventure.
