Denali National Park and Preserve is Alaska’s crown jewel, home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), and sprawling wilderness teeming with wildlife. Covering six million acres, this vast park offers a pristine environment perfect for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who simply want to escape into nature. From hiking and dog-sledding to breathtaking scenic drives, Denali promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the wild.

Stops in this Denali National Park and Preserve Adventure

Denali National Park and Preserve (3-4 days)

Denali National Park is the ultimate wilderness experience. With only one road cutting through the vast landscape, this park offers a raw and untouched view of Alaska’s beauty. Explore the rich biodiversity, from grizzly bears to caribou, and take in the dramatic mountain vistas.

Sights

• Mount Denali: The highest peak in North America, towering at 20,310 feet. While climbing Denali is reserved for seasoned mountaineers, you can admire its majesty from numerous viewpoints in the park. On clear days, the sight of Denali will leave you in awe.
• Denali Park Road: The park's single road stretches 92 miles and offers some of the most spectacular views of wildlife and landscapes. Shuttle buses provide access deep into the park, taking you to places cars can’t reach, like Wonder Lake and Eielson Visitor Center.
• Sled Dog Kennels: Denali’s sled dogs are an essential part of the park’s history. Visit the kennels to learn about dog-mushing and meet the dogs that patrol the park in winter. During summer, you can watch a live demonstration of dog-sledding.
• Savage River Loop Trail: One of the best hiking trails in the park, this easy loop offers stunning views of the river, mountains, and wildlife. Perfect for those who want to explore the park’s beauty without embarking on a long or strenuous trek.

Fairbanks (2 days)

Just a two-hour drive north of Denali, Fairbanks is known as the gateway to Alaska’s interior. It’s a lively city with a frontier spirit and a perfect base for exploring the Arctic Circle or enjoying the midnight sun in summer.

Sights

• University of Alaska Museum of the North: This museum offers a fascinating look at Alaska’s natural and cultural history, with exhibits ranging from ancient Indigenous artifacts to contemporary Alaskan art.
• Chena River State Recreation Area: Located just outside Fairbanks, this recreation area is perfect for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. It’s also a great spot to see the Northern Lights in winter.
• Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center: Learn about Fairbanks’ history and the culture of Alaska’s Indigenous peoples. The center also provides excellent resources for planning outdoor adventures.
• Pioneer Park: A quirky, family-friendly attraction that features historical buildings, a Gold Rush town replica, and the SS Nenana, a vintage sternwheeler. It’s a fun way to get a feel for Fairbanks' history.

Talkeetna (1-2 days)

Talkeetna is a charming, quirky village about halfway between Anchorage and Denali. Known as the base for mountaineers preparing to climb Denali, Talkeetna’s relaxed, artsy vibe, combined with its rich history and stunning views, make it a great stop.

Sights

• Talkeetna Riverfront Park: The confluence of three rivers—Susitna, Chulitna, and Talkeetna—provides an iconic view of Denali on clear days. It’s also a popular spot for kayaking, rafting, and fishing.
• Talkeetna Historical Society Museum: This small museum offers a deep dive into Talkeetna’s history, including its role in the Gold Rush and the early days of Denali expeditions. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the town’s adventurous past.
• Flightseeing Tours: Talkeetna is famous for its flightseeing tours that offer breathtaking aerial views of Denali and the surrounding mountains. Some tours even include glacier landings, making it an unforgettable experience.
• Denali Brewing Company: A visit to this local brewery is a must. Sample their wide variety of craft beers, including seasonal brews inspired by the surrounding wilderness.

Kenai Fjords National Park (2-3 days)

Located a few hours’ drive south of Anchorage, Kenai Fjords National Park offers a striking contrast to Denali. Here, towering glaciers meet the ocean, and marine wildlife like whales, sea otters, and puffins thrive. It’s a stunning stop for those seeking coastal and glacial beauty.

Sights

• Exit Glacier: One of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska, Exit Glacier offers several hiking trails where you can get up close to the ice. The Harding Icefield Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views of the glacier and surrounding icefields.
• Kenai Fjords Boat Tours: Explore the dramatic fjords and glaciers from the water. These boat tours offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with sightings of orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, and more.
• Resurrection Bay: The stunning bay is surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers. Kayaking through the calm waters of Resurrection Bay is a peaceful way to experience the beauty of Kenai Fjords.
• Bear Glacier: The largest glacier in Kenai Fjords, Bear Glacier is known for the icebergs that break off and float into the lagoon. You can visit it by kayak or boat for a truly unique experience.

Good to Know

• Wildlife: Denali is home to a wide array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, caribou, and moose. Keep your camera ready, but always remember to keep a safe distance from animals.
• Weather: The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, even in summer. Be sure to pack layers, rain gear, and sturdy footwear for your adventures.
• Limited Roads: Denali Park Road is only accessible by shuttle buses beyond Mile 15, so plan accordingly if you want to explore the deeper parts of the park. Book your shuttle tickets in advance to secure a seat.

Getting There

• By Air: The nearest major airports are in Anchorage (ANC) and Fairbanks (FAI). Anchorage is about a 4-hour drive from Denali, while Fairbanks is about 2 hours away.
• By Car: The Parks Highway (Alaska Route 3) connects Anchorage and Fairbanks, passing right by Denali National Park. It’s a scenic drive with plenty of opportunities for stops along the way.
• By Train: The Alaska Railroad offers scenic train routes between Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Denali. The train ride is a relaxing and beautiful way to see the Alaskan wilderness.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit Denali National Park is from late May to mid-September. Summer offers long days, with the sun barely setting in June and July, making it perfect for exploring. This is also when wildlife is most active, and the park’s shuttle system is fully operational. The shoulder seasons—May and September—are quieter and cooler, but still offer great opportunities for hiking and sightseeing, often with fewer crowds. Winter, while beautiful, brings extreme cold and limited access, making it ideal only for experienced adventurers seeking winter sports or a chance to see the Northern Lights.

For Foodies

• Reindeer Sausage: A must-try Alaskan delicacy, reindeer sausage can be found in many restaurants and food trucks throughout the state. It’s savory, slightly smoky, and often served with caribou or moose dishes.
• Fresh Alaskan Salmon: Whether it’s grilled, smoked, or served in sushi, Alaskan salmon is some of the best in the world. You’ll find it on menus everywhere from Fairbanks to Talkeetna.
• King Crab: Indulge in Alaska’s famous king crab, especially in coastal areas like Seward. Served with melted butter, it’s a decadent treat for seafood lovers.
• Wild Berries: In summer, you’ll find wild blueberries, cranberries, and more growing in the wild. Many local cafes and bakeries incorporate these into jams, pies, and desserts.

A journey through Denali National Park and beyond offers an experience like no other. From the towering peaks of Denali to the glacier-filled waters of Kenai Fjords, Alaska’s wild landscapes invite you to embrace adventure, explore untouched wilderness, and connect with nature on a deeper level. 🌲