Denali National Park and Preserve

The basics

The main activities at Denali are admiring the scenery and observing the wildlife. Caribou, moose, bears (black and grizzly), wolves, and Dall sheep are heavily sought after and also the most elusive; more common animal sightings include smaller mammals such as arctic squirrels, foxes, and marmots. Though walking and hiking tour options are limited, so as not to disturb the environment and wildlife, guided tours from Talkeetna and Healy offer opportunities for adventure activities such as flightseeing, whitewater rafting, ziplining, and ATV rides.

Things to know before you go

• Denali National Park is ideal for animal and nature lovers, but offers fewer types of outdoor activities than other parks.

• Only one road traverses the park, the 92-mile (148-kilometer) Denali Park Road, of which only 15 miles (25 kilometers) are paved; if you wish to go beyond, you must walk, bike, or take the park bus tour.

• The Denali Visitor Center provides information, exhibits, ranger talks, and other services.

How to get there

The only way to reach Denali National Park by road from Anchorage or Fairbanks is via State Route 3; it’s roughly 2 hours from Fairbanks or 5 hours from Anchorage. The Alaska Railroad also connects to the park from both cities.

When to get there

The summer season, running from mid-May to mid-September, is the best time to visit if you’re hoping to see wildlife, with temperatures ranging from 40° to 60°F (5° to 15°C). You may also visit in the spring or fall, but snow can fall at any time, so be prepared for cold or unexpected weather, and note that the buses do not operate during this time. The park road is closed in the winter, but Denali remains open for winter recreation.

Tips for spotting wildlife

Denali National Park is home to 39 mammal species and 169 bird species, but wild animals can be hard to spot, and sightings aren’t guaranteed. To maximize your chances, take a tour or the park bus instead of exploring on your own. The tour buses take you up a bit higher off the road for an elevated view, and tour groups provide more sets of eyes to keep watch. Grizzlies are more common around rivers and high-alpine areas, while Dall sheep are sometimes seen up high on the mountainside. If it’s clear and warm, some animals are less active in the middle of the day, so try the cooler hours of morning and evening.

Ways to explore

The main activities at Denali are admiring the scenery and observing the wildlife. Caribou, moose, bears (black and grizzly), wolves, and Dall sheep are heavily sought after and also the most elusive; arctic squirrels, foxes, and marmots are more common. Though walking and hiking tour options are limited, so as not to disturb the environment and wildlife, guided tours from Talkeetna and Healy offer opportunities for adventures such as flightseeing, whitewater rafting, ziplining, and ATV rides.

Most visitors take bus tours to explore the landscape, as the park’s main road is cut off to private vehicles after 15 miles (24 kilometers).

Accessibility

While the park does not have formal trails in most areas, accessible features do exist near the entrance, including the Denali Visitor Center. Bus tours are accessible, but call in advance to make sure of arrangements.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Rain gear, insect repellent and/or mosquito headnet, bear spray, binoculars, camera with extra batteries, refillable water bottle, sunscreen

What to wear

Layered, moisture-wicking clothing, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, plus warm accessories like hats and gloves if necessary

Not allowed

Littering, unleashed pets, fires outside of designated campground fire rings

Amenities

Visitor centers with restrooms, gift shops, campgrounds, bus services

Address 

Denali National Park and Preserve is located in Alaska's interior, about 240 miles (386 kilometers) north of Anchorage and 120 miles (193 kilometers) south of Fairbanks. It’s easiest to get there via car or train.

Driving

From Anchorage, the drive takes 4–6 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. From Fairbanks, expect a 2–2.5 hour drive. Note that private vehicles can only drive the first 15 miles (24 kilometers) of Denali Park Road in the summer; beyond that point, visitors must use park buses or bicycles.

Public transportation

The Alaska Railroad's Denali Star train is the way to go. Daily service is offered during the summer months—it’s an 8-hour trip from Anchorage and a 4-hour ride from Fairbanks.

Best times to visit

An early morning visit gives you the best chance to see the “High One,” as clouds are common in the afternoons. (If you catch a glimpse, you’re a member of the ”30-percent club.”)

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, especially during the shoulder seasons (late May to early June, and mid-September) when school’s in session.

Best months to visit

The prime travel season runs from late May through mid-September, when the park is fully accessible and all services are running. June and July are the most popular months, though August and early September are lovely with fall-like weather and smaller crowds.

Special events

There are tons of cool ranger programs offered daily from May through September, including dogsled demonstrations, typically at the Denali Visitor Center or the Murie Science and Learning Center. Check the park calendar to help plan your visit.