denali national park and preserve--national parks in alaska

Denali National Park

Putting together your Denali National Park trip?

When exploring the outdoors, I encourage you to follow Leave No Trace Principles and be respectful of where you are so we can preserve these spaces for future generations. ♥️

Perhaps no place felt as wild to me as Alaska in all of my travels, and Denali felt like the quintessential location to express this. Daniel and I made it a huge point for Denali National Park to be the center of our Alaska road trip–and it was absolutely unforgettable. Seeing a mother moose and her calf off the side of the road to trying to glimpse Mount Denali on the Savage Alpine Hike, the park definitely left an impression.

Because Denali is so untamed, getting to it and navigating through the park can be difficult. We had no idea that you couldn’t drive through the park on Denali Park Road and that you needed to take the bus during the busy months instead. Planning around the schedule took more planning than we thought!

I found that doing a little research (when we had WiFi back at our accommodations), helped in making sure that we managed to catch the right bus and so we could get back in time before they shut down. Checking the weather every day was also essential so we brought the right gear with us!

This guide will cover the basics of what you should know when you visit Denali, what you shouldn’t miss, and how you can be prepared while you explore!

Quick tip: If you do get the chance to see Denali, see it from Petersville Road. It’s difficult to get to, but well worth going off-road to get those perfect pictures!

Map of Denali National Park

map of denali national park

Denali National Park basics

Date founded: February 16, 1917

Annual visitation: 427,562

Location: Alaska

Fun fact: Denali was originally named Mount McKinley National Park after Presidential candidate William McKinley. The name was later changed in 1980.

How to get to Denali National Park

Getting to Denali National Park is an adventure in itself! From my experience, the best way is to fly into Anchorage or Fairbanks, then drive or take a bus to the park. Daniel and I chose to drive from Anchorage, which is about a 4-5 hour journey, offering stunning views of Alaska’s landscapes.

The Parks Highway (Alaska Route 3) is the main route and it’s a beautiful drive. If you’re up for a road trip like we were, this is a fantastic way to see the Alaskan wilderness up close. Just keep an eye out for moose along the road!

Quick tip: Because everything in Alaska is far from each other, you’re going to want to make sure your rental car has plenty of mileage in your agreement to get you from place to place!

Top 5 things to do in Denali National Park

If you love wildlife and hiking, there are so many things to do in Denali National Park. Here are my top choices that you will want to make sure not to miss when you’re there!

1. Hiking in Denali

Tackling some of Denali’s trails is a must. We explored several and each offered unique views and challenges. Remember to prepare for varying terrains and weather conditions.

2. Wildlife viewing

Denali is teeming with wildlife. We were lucky to spot moose just off the road! Keep your eyes peeled for bears, caribou, and more, especially in areas like Polychrome Pass.

3. Bus tour on Denali Park Road

This guided tour offers an in-depth look at the park’s ecology and history. We learned so much while enjoying spectacular scenery. Plus, the guides know exactly where you are likely to spot some wildlife!

4. Flightseeing tour

If your budget allows, a flightseeing tour is unforgettable. Seeing Denali from the air, even if the peak is shy, is breathtaking. You also have a chance to spot wildlife from the air.

5. Visitor centers

Don’t overlook Denali’s visitor centers! They’re full of educational displays and helpful rangers. It’s a great starting point to understand the park’s vastness and how to explore it safely.

When to visit Denali National Park

The best time to visit Denali National Park is from late June to early September. This is when the park is fully accessible, and you get the long, beautiful Alaskan summer days. I found that June and July offer the warmest weather and the best chance to see Denali’s peak, though it can still be elusive–don’t expect that you will see it when you’re there!

Late August to September brings stunning fall colors and fewer tourists, but also cooler temperatures and lots of rain. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers and rain gear is essential.

I recommend two or three days to visit Denali National Park

Two or three days in Denali National Park is ideal to appreciate its vastness without rushing. With two days, you can explore parts of the park accessible by the Denali Park Road and enjoy a few hikes. Adding a third day allows for deeper exploration, maybe a bus tour into the wilderness, or tackling more extensive trails.

Daniel and I found this timeframe just right to immerse ourselves in the park’s beauty and still long to return for more.

Closest airport to Denali National Park

The closest major airports to Denali National Park are in Anchorage and Fairbanks. Anchorage’s Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is about a 4-5 hour drive to the park, while Fairbanks International Airport is closer, around a 2-hour drive.

Both offer rental cars for the scenic journey. During our Alaska road trip, Daniel and I flew into Anchorage and drove from there, which added to our adventure and let us see more of Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes–it’s worth the time on the road! Realistically, you will probably fly into Anchorage over Fairbanks since it is a more difficult airport to reach unless you are already in Alaska.

Where to stay when visiting Denali National Park

For accommodations, there are options inside Denali National Park, like lodges and campgrounds, but they often book up fast and can be pricey.

During our trip, I found staying in nearby towns like Healy or Cantwell more budget-friendly and less crowded. These towns provide a good balance of convenience and local Alaskan charm, as well as more options for food, making them great choices for exploring the park and surrounding areas.

Weather in Denali National Park

Weather in Denali National Park is as varied as its landscapes. Summers are mild with temperatures ranging from 33°F to 75°F, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. However, even in summer, it can get chilly, especially at night.

Winters are cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports but requiring proper gear. During our visit, Daniel and I experienced occasional rain, so packing waterproof gear is wise. Spring and fall are transitional, with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. Always be prepared for sudden weather changes–layers are key!

Quick tip: If you bring nothing else, a rain jacket should be in your pack! Storms come in fast, and it’s common to experience drizzling rain several months out of the year.

How to get around Denali National Park

Getting around Denali National Park mainly involves the park’s well-designed bus system, which is a great way to see the sights without the hassle of driving. Private vehicles have limited access beyond certain points.

The bus system offers different types of tours and shuttles, letting you explore deeper into the park. Daniel and I found this an efficient and environmentally friendly way to travel within the park. It’s also a great opportunity for wildlife viewing and meeting fellow travelers.

Quick tip: Take a picture of the bus schedule on your phone so you know when the last one leaves and so you won’t get stranded in the park!

Tips for visiting Denali National Park

Here are some tips I found helpful when visiting Denali and some I would recommend for your trip!

  • Weather preparedness: Denali’s weather can shift dramatically. Layering is key – pack a mix of thermal wear, a fleece, and a waterproof jacket. During our trip, these layers were lifesavers against sudden rain and cold winds.
  • Bear safety: Since Denali is bear country, carrying and knowing how to use bear spray is vital for safety. I always have it within easy reach on hikes, just as a precaution.
  • Maximize bus tours: The park’s bus tours are not only great for reducing driving stress but also offer a wealth of information from knowledgeable guides. On our tour, we learned about the park’s history and saw wildlife we might have missed otherwise.
  • Respecting the wilderness: Stick to trails and minimize your environmental impact. Denali’s wilderness is breathtakingly pristine, and it’s up to us to keep it that way. Remember, leave no trace!
  • Packing the right gear: Essential items include binoculars for wildlife viewing – we saw so many moose! – and a quality camera for the stunning landscapes. Also, don’t forget water, snacks, and a good map. These essentials made our hikes both enjoyable and safe.

Articles on Denali National Park

Denali National Park FAQs

Here are some frequently-asked questions I often get from readers about visiting Denali National Park.

Entering Denali National Park comes with a fee. For my trips, a 7-day pass per person is $15. These fees go towards maintaining and preserving the park.

If you’re a frequent national park visitor like me, consider the America the Beautiful Pass, which offers access to all national parks for $80 a year. If you plan on visiting any national park site in the United States more than three times, you get your money’s worth.

Yes, carrying bear spray in Denali National Park is a good idea. While Daniel and I luckily didn’t encounter any close bear situations, it’s always better to be prepared. Bear spray can provide peace of mind and an added safety measure, especially on more remote trails. Just make sure you know how to use it!

Quick tip: You can’t fly with bear spray. One way I’ve gotten bear spray in the past is to ask my accommodations if they have some left by other guests. It saves you money and they almost always have some!

Yes, there are cabin rental options in and around Denali National Park, though they can be somewhat limited within the park itself. These range from rustic cabins to more comfortable lodgings, offering a unique way to experience the Alaskan wilderness. Remember, cabin rentals inside the park can be quite sought after and may require advance booking, especially during peak season.

Outside the park, in nearby towns like Healy, there are more cabin rental options, often providing a balance between comfort and that rugged Alaskan feel.

The main road in Denali National Park, the Denali Park Road, typically closes for the winter season due to snow and weather conditions. This closure usually happens in mid-September, but it can vary depending on the weather each year.

The road then reopens in late spring, generally in May. It’s important to check the park’s current conditions and road status before your visit, as these dates can change. During our visit, Daniel and I kept a close eye on road closures to plan our travels accordingly.

In Denali National Park, while you can’t take your pup everywhere, there are some dog-friendly options. Dogs are allowed on a leash in campgrounds, parking lots, and on park roads. They are not allowed on buses, on most trails, and in the backcountry.

I recommend the Roadside Trail and the Bike Path where you and your furry hiking buddy can hit the trail together. It’s a great way to enjoy the park’s beauty with your four-legged friend. Just remember to keep them leashed, Leave No Trace, and clean up after them–we want to keep Denali as pristine as we found it!

For Denali National Park, pack for varying conditions. Key items include:

  • Layers: Weather can change quickly. Bring thermal wear, fleece, and a waterproof outer layer.
  • Sturdy hiking boots: Essential for those rugged trails.
  • Bear spray: Safety first, especially on remote hikes.
  • Sun protection: Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen, even under overcast skies.
  • Water and snacks: Keep hydrated and energized.
  • Binoculars: For wildlife spotting – we saw lots of moose!
  • Camera: Capture those breathtaking landscapes.
  • Rain gear: We had some rainy days, so this is a must.

You might want to check out my full packing list for Denali so you don’t miss other item you might need for your adventure.

If you’re headed into the backcountry, you’ll need a lot more gear so you are prepared to handle all that the Alaskan wilderness will throw at you–make sure you are prepared and you know the rules for permits beforehand.

Need help planning your Denali National Park trip?

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