Denali National Park and Preserve photo
ParkAlaska, US

Denali National Park and Preserve

Denali National Park and Preserve offers an unparalleled Alaskan wilderness adventure.

About

Denali National Park and Preserve offers an unparalleled Alaskan wilderness adventure.

This iconic park is a six-million-acre expanse of wildlands, dominated by North America's highest peak, the majestic Denali. It's a sanctuary where vast tundra, braided rivers, and towering granite peaks create a breathtaking backdrop for an incredible array of wildlife, making it a world-renowned destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. Denali was originally established in 1917 as Mount McKinley National Park with the primary goal of protecting its abundant wildlife.

Visitors come primarily to witness the "Big Five" of Denali: grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves, which roam freely across the diverse landscapes of tundra and taiga forests. Beyond these iconic mammals, the park is home to 39 species of mammals and 169 species of birds, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. The Denali Park Road, while partially restricted to private vehicles, provides access to stunning vistas and prime wildlife habitats, with guided bus tours offering the best chance to spot these creatures and take in the dramatic scenery.

A journey to Denali is an immersive experience into an untouched wilderness, offering moments of profound connection with nature. Whether you're captivated by the sheer scale of the landscape, the thrill of spotting a grizzly bear in its natural habitat, or the serenity of Wonder Lake reflecting the towering peak, the park leaves an indelible impression. It's a place where every turn reveals a new vista and every moment holds the potential for an unforgettable encounter with the wild. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.

Denali National Park and Preserve was first established as Mount McKinley National Park in 1917, primarily to protect the area's robust wildlife, especially the Dall sheep. The park was significantly expanded and renamed Denali National Park and Preserve in 1980 by the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), integrating the original national park with Denali National Monument and additional national preserve lands. This expansion substantially increased the protected area to over six million acres, safeguarding a more comprehensive range of ecosystems and wildlife habitats. The name "Denali" comes from the Koyukon Athabascan people, meaning "the Great One," a fitting tribute to North America's highest peak which dominates the park's landscape. The park's history reflects a long-standing commitment to wilderness preservation and scientific research, exemplified today by facilities like the Murie Science and Learning Center, which focuses on subarctic and arctic science education.

What to do here

Wildlife viewing, bus tours, hiking (frontcountry and backcountry), flightseeing, photography, camping, ranger-led programs, and sled dog demonstrations.

Accessibility

Many tour and transit buses are wheelchair-accessible (request when booking). The Denali Visitor Center and Riley Creek Campground offer accessible restrooms and paved routes. Some trails, such as the Mountain Vista Trail and parts of the Savage River Trail, are also accessible or suitable for those with mobility concerns. A wheelchair is available for loan at the Denali Visitor Center.

Don't miss

1

Denali Park Road Bus Tours

The primary way to explore the park beyond Mile 15, offering narrated tours (Natural History Tour, Tundra Wilderness Tour) or non-narrated transit buses for wildlife viewing and scenic drives. *Note for 2026: Due to the Pretty Rocks landslide, the road is open only to Mile 43, affecting access to areas like Kantishna and Wonder Lake by road.

2

Eielson Visitor Center (Mile 66)

Offers stunning views of Denali on clear days, exhibits, and ranger programs. Accessible via bus tours.

3

Sled Dog Kennels

The only working sled dog kennels in the National Park Service, visitors can meet the dogs and watch demonstrations. Free shuttles are available from the Denali Visitor Center.

4

Hiking

Options range from developed trails near the park entrance (e.g., Savage River Loop, Mt. Healy Overlook Trail, Horseshoe Lake Trail) to extensive off-trail backcountry hiking.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Book in Advance

Accommodations, bus tours, and shuttle tickets, especially during the peak summer season, sell out quickly. Book 3-6 months ahead.

Dress in Layers

Denali's weather is highly unpredictable and can change rapidly, even in summer. Be prepared for sun, wind, rain, and cold temperatures, possibly all in one day.

Bring Binoculars and a Telephoto Lens

Wildlife is often at a distance, and good optics will greatly enhance your viewing and photography experience.

Know Bear Safety

Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Maintain safe distances from all wildlife (at least 300 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other animals).

Utilize the Bus System

The bus tours are the best way to see deep into the park, learn from naturalists, and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.

Be Prepared for Mosquitoes

Especially in June and July, mosquitoes can be prevalent. Pack insect repellent.

Frequently asked questions

Denali National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife. Visitors have excellent opportunities to spot the "Big Five": grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. Other frequently seen animals include red foxes, arctic ground squirrels, willow ptarmigan, and golden eagles. The best time for wildlife viewing is generally from late spring through early fall, when animals are most active.
Private vehicles are generally restricted beyond Mile 15 of the Denali Park Road during the summer season. To venture further into the park and access prime wildlife viewing areas and scenic overlooks like Eielson Visitor Center, visitors must use the park's bus system (narrated tour buses or non-narrated transit buses). *Please note that as of 2026, the Denali Park Road is closed beyond Mile 43 due to a landslide.
Denali National Park strives to be accessible to all visitors. Many of the park's tour and transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, and accessible restrooms are available at rest stops along the Park Road. The Denali Visitor Center and areas like Riley Creek Campground feature accessible routes and facilities. Some trails, such as the Mountain Vista Trail and the Savage River Trail, are considered accessible or have sections suitable for wheelchairs. A free wheelchair loan is also available at the Denali Visitor Center.

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