Denali National Park in Alaska is a true natural wonder and a must-see destination for any traveler looking for adventure and breathtaking scenery. The park is home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali, as well as an abundance of wildlife and pristine wilderness.
Outdoor activities
Explore the great outdoors by enjoying activities in Denali National Park. From taking guided bus tours to backpacking throught the park, there's something for everyone.
Guided Bus Tour
One of the best ways to experience the park is by taking a guided bus tour through the park’s interior. The tour will take you deep into the park, offering the chance to see grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and wolves in their natural habitat. The tour also offers stunning views of the park’s rugged landscape, including glaciers, rivers, and alpine tundra.
Backpacking
Another outdoor activity to consider is a hike or backpacking trip through the park. The park offers a variety of trail options, from easy nature walks to strenuous backcountry treks. The park’s backcountry is home to some of the most remote and unspoiled wilderness in the world, and a backpacking trip is an unforgettable way to experience it.
Must See Places
Two of the must-see places are the Eielson Visitor Center and the Wonder Lake. Both places offer unique experiences and provide a deeper understanding of the park's natural and cultural resources.
Eielson Visitor Center
The Eielson Visitor Center is a must-see destination when visiting Denali National Park in Alaska. The center is located in the park’s interior and offers a variety of educational exhibits, as well as a great view of Mount Denali. Visitors can learn about the park’s unique ecology and history, including information on the park’s wildlife, geology, and cultural heritage.
Wonder Lake
The lake offers a spectacular view of Mount Denali and the surrounding landscape. It is a great spot for photography and picnics, and visitors can also take a boat tour or rent a canoe to explore the lake. The lake is surrounded by the park’s wilderness and is a great place for wildlife watching. It’s a popular spot for visitors to see grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and wolves in their natural habitat. Visitors can also take guided hikes to explore the area around the lake.
Unusual Tip
Uncover the hidden gems of Denali National Park. This unusual tip will let you turn your travel into an unforgettable experience.
Winter Visiting
The park’s rugged landscapes and wilderness take on a different beauty in the winter, with snow-covered mountains and frozen rivers. Winter is also a great time to see the Northern Lights, as the long nights provide optimal viewing conditions. Visitors can stay in the park’s winter cabins, which offer a warm and comfortable base for exploring the park. Be prepared for the cold and pack accordingly, but also be rewarded with a different perspective on the park.
Hidden Wonders
Sure, here are two top places from Atlas Obscura to add to your itinerary when visiting Denali National Park.
The Murie Science and Learning Center
This unique facility is located within the park and is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural history of the park. The center offers a variety of educational programs, including ranger-led tours and workshops on topics such as wilderness survival and wildlife tracking. Visitors can also explore the center’s exhibits and displays, which highlight the park’s unique ecology and history.
Kantishna Roadhouse
This historic Kantishna roadhouse is located at the end of park road, near Wonder Lake. Built in the early 1900s, the roadhouse served as a stopover for gold miners and explorers. Today, it operates as a rustic lodge and offers a variety of activities, including guided hiking and backpacking trips, horseback rides, and even a dogsledding tour. Visitors can also stay overnight at the lodge, which offers a unique and remote wilderness experience.
Accommodation Suggestions
These are four accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences, whether you're a camping enthusiast, looking for a rustic wilderness experience, comfortable amenities or a high-end experience.
Camping:
Denali National Park offers several campgrounds for visitors to choose from. Camping is an affordable option and allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness of the park. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not accepted.
Budget:
Denali Backcountry Lodge is located in the park’s interior and offers a more remote and rustic experience. The lodge is only accessible by foot or by park bus and offers comfortable cabin accommodations, delicious meals, and guided activities. This is a great option for those looking for a wilderness experience without roughing it too much.
Mid-range:
Denali Bluffs Hotel is located outside the park, but offers comfortable accommodations and great views of the park. The hotel offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms and suites, as well as a restaurant and a gift shop. This is a great option for those looking for comfortable accommodations with easy access to the park.
High-end:
McKinley Chalet Resort is located at the park entrance and offers various accommodation options, including standard rooms and luxury suites. The resort also offers a restaurant, a gift shop, and a variety of activities, such as dog mushing, flightseeing, and river rafting. This is a great option for those looking for a high-end experience and many activities.
In conclusion, Denali National Park is a true natural wonder that offers visitors a chance to experience stunning wilderness, rugged landscapes, and an abundance of wildlife. A guided bus tour, a hike or backpacking trip, visiting the Eielson Visitor Center and the Wonder Lake, and considering a winter visit, are all great ways to experience the park. And don’t forget your camera, as the views are simply breathtaking.
