Denali National Park is a realm of rugged beauty and unspoiled wilderness. Dominated by the towering Denali, North America's highest peak, the park presents a spectacular array of natural wonders.
The splendors and wilderness of Denali makes it one of Alaska’s most visited destinations – and for excellent reasons. Here you can stand amidst tundra while watching caribou herds roam river valleys or come across a pack of wolves darting along the hillside. But experiencing Denali is not as easy as simply jumping in a car and going.
At over 7,400 square miles and with limited access, this park requires some careful planning to ensure you are making the most of your time here. In this guide, we will cover some of the best ways to experience Denali National Park, including options from the ground and the sky.
The Denali Park Road
Stretching for 92 miles, Denali Park Road is the park's lifeline, connecting visitors with its many treasures. This road meanders through valleys and mountain passes, presenting an ever-changing tapestry of Alaskan wilderness.
During the summer season, private vehicles have access to only the first 15 miles of the road, leading to Savage River. This stretch is paved and features numerous pull-outs, perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, with some key photo spots where you can get an excellent photo of Denali.
Beyond Mile 15, the road ventures into the less-trodden "Backcountry," accessible only by park bus, meaning you will need to leave your car at the park entrance and hop on a bus to see the rest of the park. While venturing in your car is fun, taking a bus tour into the heart of the park is where you will experience the true magic of Denali.
2024 Travel Advisory
A recent landslide has led to a partial closure of Denali Park Road for the 2024 season. Visitors should regularly consult the national park website for updates on road conditions and accessibility.
Bus Tours: Seeing the Park from the Ground
Denali National Park is divided into two distinct areas: the "Frontcountry," which extends to Mile 15 along the Park Road, and the "Backcountry," stretching from Mile 15 to Mile 92.
For those wishing to explore beyond Mile 15, private vehicles are not permitted. To journey further into the park's depths, you will need to hop on an official bus tour.
Tip: Since this is a very popular destination, it is highly recommended that you make bus reservations a few months before your arrival. You can make these reservations on the official Denali National Park page, ensuring you have everything booked and secured for your trip.
Non-Narrated Transit Buses
Ideal for the flexible traveler, the non-narrated transit buses (seen as the green buses in the park) allow you to hop on and off as you please. They're perfect for day hikes or simply soaking up the park at your own pace.
Plus, they stop for all the important things - wildlife, restrooms, and those great views. This is the best option if you plan on hiking in the park or want to plan your own itinerary. This is also a great option for wildlife photographers, as the bus will stop at some of the best trails for wildlife viewing.
Narrated Tour Buses
The tan-colored tour buses offer a guided experience, with drivers providing in-depth commentary on the park's history, geology, and wildlife. These buses make the same stops as transit buses but do not accommodate hikers looking to hop on and off for hiking. This is the perfect option for individuals who may have mobility issues or for groups looking to see as much of the park as possible in one day.
There are two main types of narrated tours offered in the park:
- Denali Natural History Bus Tour
- Duration: 4.5 to 5 hours
- Focus: The park's natural and cultural history
- Stops include Savage Cabin, Primrose Ridge, and others for interactive Alaska Native presentations.
- Tundra Wilderness Tour
- Duration: 5 to 5.5 hours
- Focus: In-depth exploration of the park's wildlife and landscapes
- Key Stop: Murie Cabin, where renowned biologist Adolf Murie conducted his research.
If you plan on using the Denali bus system to see the park, remember that the buses only operate in the summer (typically from late May to early September). Once snow begins to fall, the park road will close after the first 3 miles, making access to the park extremely limited in the winter months.
If you do plan on visiting during the off-season (anytime other than summer), you can still access the park through trails and backcountry hiking. The Murie Science and Learning Center provides free rentals of snowshoes and ice grippers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable winter experience. There are no snowmobile tours offered in the park and the park rangers utilize dog teams to conduct patrols – making for a serene and peaceful winter landscape.
Flightseeing – Seeing Denali from the Sky
Flightseeing tours offer a bird's eye view of Denali and the surrounding Alaska Range. Departing from Talkeetna and other locations, these flights provide a unique perspective on the park's grandeur, allowing you to see most of the park in one day. While weather can affect schedules, these tours are a must for any Denali visitor, offering spectacular views of the Alaskan wilderness.
The aircraft used for these tours are typically small, offering an intimate and personal experience. Equipped with large windows, they provide unobstructed views of the landscape below.
If you have several days to explore the park, consider starting off your Denali trip with a flightseeing tour and then spending a few days exploring the park via the park’s bus system. This will allow you to get the best of both options – a bird’s eye view and an on the ground experience.
Accessing Denali National Park
Reaching Denali is part of the adventure, with several options available to suit different preferences and budgets.
- By Rail
- Connecting Fairbanks and Anchorage, the Alaska Railroad offers a scenic and comfortable journey to Denali. This option is ideal for those seeking a relaxed approach to travel, and local shuttles in Denali eliminate the need for a rental car.
- By Bus
- A budget-friendly alternative, the Park Connection bus service runs between Denali and Anchorage, catering to those who prefer not to drive.
- By Car
- For those valuing flexibility, rental cars are available in Anchorage and Fairbanks. This makes driving a great option for reaching the park and having the flexibility to explore the numerous sights and towns along the way. While useful for exploring the park's Frontcountry, remember that private vehicles are limited to the first 15 miles of the Denali Park Road.
Maximizing Your Denali Experience
To truly appreciate Denali National Park, a mix of road, bus, and air exploration is recommended. Each mode offers a unique perspective and set of experiences. By combining these different modes of exploration, you’ll leave with a comprehensive and deeply enriching understanding of Denali National Park, carrying memories that will last a lifetime.
