Nestled in the heart of Alaska's rugged wilderness, Denali National Park is a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Boasting 6 million acres of unspoiled landscape, this sprawling natural reserve offers awe-inspiring vistas, robust wildlife populations, and diverse ecosystems. From towering snow-capped mountains to lush forests, Denali National Park provides an unrivaled hiking and camping experience that is a must-do for any Alaska adventure vacation.
In this guide, we’ll provide a brief overview of the spectacular park, breakdown the options available for campers, and cover some of the top trails to explore while you’re visiting.
Denali National Park: A Brief Overview
Established in 1917, Denali National Park is home to North America's tallest peak, Denali Mountain (formerly known as Mount McKinley), which stands at an impressive 20,310 feet. The park's diverse habitats host an array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, wolves, caribou, and countless bird species. Visitors can experience this breathtaking landscape and its inhabitants through various recreational activities, including hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and mountaineering.
With over 100 miles of established trails and countless off-trail hiking opportunities, hiking and camping are the ideal options for fly experiencing Denali. The park's trails cater to all skill levels, from casual strolls to challenging backcountry treks, allowing options for the whole family and plans to fit every itinerary. With minimal trail infrastructure, hikers are granted a true wilderness experience, with the freedom to explore at their own pace.
Most trails and campgrounds are inaccessible during the winter months (ranging from late September to mid-May), but Denali is open year round. Certain park amenities close seasonally, including the infamous Denali Park Road, but snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are options throughout the winter – allowing visitors to experience the incredible variety of Denali’s beauty throughout its seasons.
Getting Around the Park for Hiking and Camping
The Denali Park Road, spanning 92 miles, is the primary route for visitors to access the park's campgrounds, trailheads, and scenic viewpoints. Private vehicle access is limited to the first 15 miles of the road, up to Savage River. Beyond this point, visitors must utilize the park's shuttle bus system or join a guided tour to explore deeper into the park.
The park’s shuttle bus system offers various options, including narrated tour buses and non-narrated transit buses. Transit buses allow hikers to hop on and off at different stops, providing flexibility to access trailheads and explore the park at their leisure. Reservations for both types of buses can be made in advance, which is highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season (June-August).
Cycling is another option for exploring the park. Bicyclists are allowed on the Denali Park Road, giving them the freedom to travel at their own pace while enjoying the scenic surroundings. However, keep in mind that the road is mostly unpaved and can be steep in certain sections. Additionally, cyclists must be cautious of wildlife and weather conditions, and check with the local visitor center on any construction closures.
Camping in Denali National Park
The park offers six campgrounds, each providing a unique experience and varying amenities. All campgrounds, except Riley Creek and Savage River, are accessible by the park shuttle system. Reservations are recommended during the weekends and peak summer months, and generator hours are limited in each campground for those traveling by RV or trailer.
Riley Creek Campground: Open year-round, this campground is located near the park entrance and offers basic amenities such as flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station.
Savage River Campground: Found at Mile 13 on the park road, this campground is open seasonally and provides access to nearby trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Sanctuary River Campground: A small, tents-only campground located at Mile 23, offering a more secluded experience with minimal amenities.
Teklanika River Campground: Located at Mile 29, this campground is a favorite among RV campers and provides access to multiple trails.
Igloo Creek Campground: This rustic, tents-only campground at Mile 34 offers a tranquil setting and close proximity to excellent hiking opportunities.
Wonder Lake Campground: The most remote campground, situated at Mile 85, features stunning views of Denali and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Additionally, numerous camping options are available directly outside of the park in established campgrounds, HipCamps, or on federal lands for dispersed camping. These options are much less popular with visitors, so if you can’t secure an in-park camping reservation, be sure to check into options just outside of the gates. The wildlife and views are just as impressive in the local areas.
Backcountry Camping in Denali
For those looking to embark on a true wilderness adventure, backcountry camping is an excellent way to experience the beauty of Denali in seclusion. Backcountry camping is camping outside of a developed campground and away from a road system. This requires hiking in with a pack, often over several miles (known as backpacking).
Backcountry permits are required for overnight stays in the park and are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Denali Visitor Center. Prior to receiving a permit, campers must attend a brief safety orientation and watch a video about the park's backcountry policies, and bring proper wildlife gear, including bear spray and a bear canister to store food.
Top Hiking Trails in Denali
Covering such a wide area of wilderness, there is no shortage of hiking opportunities in Denali, however established trails are limited in the park. Off-trail hiking is a favorite activity in the park, and the chosen option for many backpackers. However, if you’re not interested in striking out on your own, there are numerous established trail options that are excellent for an easy day hike. If you’re interested in off-trail hiking, check in with the Visitor Center to help plan your hike and get an updated weather and conditions report.
Check out one of these routes during your Denali adventure:
- Horseshoe Lake Trail (2 miles round trip): A gentle hike with minimal elevation gain, ideal for families or casual hikers, offering picturesque views of Horseshoe Lake.
- Savage River Loop (2 miles round trip): A relatively flat trail that traverses through the scenic Savage River Valley, featuring abundant wildlife and wildflowers.
- Triple Lakes Trail (9.5 miles one way): A more challenging hike, providing stunning views of three alpine lakes, lush forests, and the Alaska Range.
- Mount Healy Overlook Trail (6.9 miles round trip): A moderate to strenuous climb with rewarding panoramic views of the Denali National Park entrance area.
- Kesugi Ridge Trail (27.4 miles one way): A multi-day backpacking adventure, suitable for experienced hikers, boasting incredible views of the Alaska Range, Denali, and numerous alpine lakes (often considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the United States). This trail can be broken into shorter sections for day hikes.
Venturing into the Denali Wilderness
Denali National Park is an unforgettable destination for hikers and campers seeking unparalleled natural beauty and a true wilderness experience. With a variety of trails catering to all skill levels, a range of campground accommodations, and convenient transportation options, this park is the perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in Alaska's rugged landscape.
So lace up your hiking boots, pack your gear, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in the heart of Denali National Park.
