Best Reasons to Visit Denali – The Last Frontier

Have you ever imagined visiting Denali? Is Denali on your bucket list? Denali National Park & Preserve is the top destination for adventure in Alaska, attracting visitors from all over the globe with its wild beauty. Here Denali, the tallest mountain in North America, rises high into the sky like a shining jewel. Get ready to dive into vast tundra rough mountains and land full of wildlife that make up this famous Alaskan region. If you’re looking for amazing views, exciting hikes or the peacefulness of nature, this park has it. Discover why Denali, known as The Last Frontier, should top your Alaska road trip itinerary. Discover the amazing beauty of Alaska from stunning views to wild places full of wonder. This is your chance to dive into the wild side of Alaska where excitement and nature come together.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: The Denali Park Road will be closed at Mile 43 of the 92-mile road this summer because of a landslide near Pretty Rocks. Because of road construction repairs, the Denali Park Road will be closed in thru summer 2025.

So Why Visit Denali National Park & Preserve?

Here are just some of the best reasons to visit Denali National Park & Preserve are:

1. Exciting wildlife experiences: You can never be sure when you’ll see wild animals. You have a good chance of seeing the Big Five animals: grizzly bears, wolves, caribou moose and Dall sheep.
2. You can enjoy wide views of Denali, the tallest mountain in North America, along with other famous peaks in the Alaska Range. They say that only 30% of visitors reach the top of the peak.
3. If you want to be alone, you will usually not encounter anyone else on the longer paths.
4. The beautiful scenery is amazing at every turn in the road. You will find taiga forests, subalpine woodlands, floodplain meadows and tundra.

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The park, when created, was originally called Mt. McKinley National Park in February. On December 26, 1917. This park is the crown jewel of the Alaskan Park System. Denali National Park & Preserve covers 6 million acres and a large part of it remains almost untouched. The name Denali comes from the native Athabaskan languages and means “the tall one” or “big mountain.” The park has only one road to enter and leave. You can see both big and small native animals on the road. People who go to Denali National Park & Preserve can easily discover quiet in this authentic American wilderness.

How do Visitors Get to the Denali National Park-Last Frontier?

• By Air: The closest major airport is in Anchorage, Alaska (Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport). From Anchorage, you can fly into the smaller town of Healy, which is about 10 miles north of the park entrance. There are also private charters and smaller regional airports that may provide access to the park.
• By Train: The Alaska Railroad offers a scenic ride to the park from Anchorage. It’s a fantastic way to soak in the beauty of Alaska’s wilderness along the way.
• By Car: If you’re up for a road trip, you can drive 240-miles from Anchorage, along the (A-3) George Parks Highway, which connects to the park entrance. However, be aware that much of the park is not accessible by car, and many visitors rely on buses once inside. Driving from Fairbanks is approximately 125-miles.
• By Bus: Once inside the park, the only way to explore beyond the first 15 miles of the park is by taking a park-operated bus. These buses give access to remote areas and help minimize human impact on the environment.
• We rented an RV in Anchorage from the Great Alaskan Holidays for our Alaska dream vacation, traveling the Parks Highway, taking two days to enjoy the sites along the way.

What to Know Before You go to Denali National Park & Preserve the last Frontier

• Entrance Fees (2025 Rates): Private Vehicle: $15 per vehicle (valid for 7 days) Individual/Walk-in: $8 per person (valid for 7 days) Motorcycle: $8 per motorcycle (valid for 7 days) Annual Pass: $45 for a Denali-specific annual pass, or use the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass ($80) for access to all national parks and federal lands across the country.
• Operating Hours: Park Hours: Denali is open year-round, but certain services, facilities, and roads may be closed or limited depending on the season. The main visitor season is during the summer months (mid-June to mid-September). Visitor Center Hours: (Summer Season): 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily (hours may vary). Winter Season (October to May): Limited visitor services; the park may be less accessible, and services like bus tours and road access beyond the park entrance may be restricted.
• Denali Bus Service: Available from mid-June to mid-September for accessing deeper parts of the park. During winter, the buses don’t operate, but winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are available.
• Pets: Denali allows pets in designated areas, including the main entrance area and along the paved roads. However, most trails, park buses, and the backcountry prohibit pets. This is to protect both wildlife and your pet. You must keep your pet on a leash (no longer than six feet) while in the park.

When is the Best Time to Visit Denali National Park?

Summer (mid-June to mid-September): The summer months are the best time to visit Denali, as the weather is milder, and most of the park’s facilities and services are open. Temperatures can range from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C) but can drop unexpectedly. Winter (October to early May): The park is less accessible, but for those who enjoy winter activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, it can be an exciting (albeit colder) time to visit.

NOTE: Annual Passholders are eligible for a refund of the entrance fee (with proper ID), either at the Denali Bus Depot or Riley Creek Mercantile. The park will automatically add the fee to your bill when you make shuttle or campground reservations.

Transportation Shuttle Buses Through the Last Frontier of Denali

Most of the Denali Road is only accessible by park buses in the summer (May 20—mid-Sept.). You can only drive the first 15-miles with your RV or car. You will need to consider whether you prefer a knowledgeable guide to lead your tour, or do you want to go it alone? All buses depart from the Denali Bus Depot, which is open from 5 am to 7 pm.

Green (Non-Narrated) Transit Bus: Eco-Friendly Travel in Denali National Park – The Last Frontier

If you prefer to go it alone without the narration of a knowledgeable park ranger, then this is the bus for you! Unlimited flexibility. Get off where you like, flag down another green bus to continue. This is a true shuttle bus experience, meaning you bring your own food, water, and hiking gear for backpacking into the heart of the wilderness on your own terms. You just ask the driver to stop and disembark. When you have finished your off-trail hike ready to return, just flag down the next green bus. As part of efforts to protect this pristine environment, Green (Non-Narrated) Transit Buses provide an eco-friendly way to explore the park while minimizing the ecological footprint of visitors.

NOTE: If the bus is full, you will have to wait. This is the biggest disadvantage of traveling the green bus.

Although this isn’t a guided tour, the drivers know a lot and are happy to share interesting information if you start a chat or ask them questions. These buses will stop if you see any wildlife while traveling, so stay alert. For restroom breaks, I believe the green shuttles are the best option to explore the park if you are not camping and just want to spend the day enjoying the park. Because of the road closure at mile 43, this bus will stop at the East Fork just before reaching the closed area. It then turns around and heads back. These buses leave the visitor center every 30 minutes, so there are plenty of them available so you don’t have to worry.

Note: Denali National Park Visitors Can Expect Major Road Closure to Mile 43 thru 2025. Roughly half of the main road through Denali National Park and Preserve will remain closed as park officials contend with landslide issues.

Denali National Park: Free Shuttle Bus

During the summer, three free bus routes operate near the park entrance to assist visitors in getting from the visitor center to other facilities. The park has named the shuttles Savage River Shuttle, the Riley Creek Loop Shuttle and the Sled Dog Demonstration Shuttle. This service helps visitors check out important spots in the park with no need for your own car. It’s a fantastic way to lower your carbon footprint while still enjoying the amazing sights of Denali and the surrounding nature. This free shuttle called “Savage River Shuttle” takes visitors to the Savage River Campground and the starting points for the Savage River and Mountain Vista trails. The free shuttle called “Riley Creek Loop” takes you to the Riley Creek Mercantile Riley Creek Campground Denali Bus Depot Horseshoe Lake Trailhead and the Denali Visitor Center. The Sled Dog Demonstration Shuttle offers free round-trip rides to the popular sled dog shows starting from the Denali Visitor Center.

Camper Buses in Denali National Park & Preserve

You may only reserve camper buses in advance for those visitors with campground reservations or a backcountry permit. They mark camper buses with a small tent icon to differentiate them from regular transit buses. Bike riders can use this bus to travel the park as well.

Tan Tour Bus: Narrated Tours Through Denali National Park

On these narrated tours you cannot disembark even if you spot wildlife. On our tour, much to our pleasure, we were part of the 30% club that got to see Denali. Denali didn’t cannot live up to its promise: the rugged mountain was magnificent. We felt incredibly lucky! We saw moose, caribou, a lynx, a grizzly, and Ptarmigan. You can buy snack food and drinks at the Denali Bus Depot. Book your tickets online and pick them up at the Denali Bus Depot the day before-arrive early!

TIP: Don’t hog a window – take several pictures and then move so others can take photographs too.

Which Narrated Tours are Available in Denali National Park?

• Natural History Tour – (4.5 hours) This tour is excellent for those with limited time in the park. We really enjoyed this tour that turns around at Primrose Ridge, where we got to experience a native presentation. We also got a magnificent view of the mountain at the turnaround.
• Tundra Wilderness Tour – (5.5 hours) takes you as far as the current road ends (MM43). 20-40 minute stopover at East Fork, where you will learn about Adolf Murie and his research in the park during the 1930s & 1940s. A tour of his cabin where he lived while conducting his famous research. Included is a snack and water, however preorders of boxed lunches are available on request.
• Kantishna Experience Tour – (12 hours) – To the end of the road 92-miles and back. You can take lunch at the Kantishna Roadhouse. The bus stops for photo ops and also for restroom breaks. I highly recommend this tour! Currently unavailable because of the road closure.
• NOTE: When riding the transit bus in Denali, make sure to bring layers of clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning beauty of Denali’s wilderness—and perhaps some wildlife sightings as well.

For 5 days in the fall, the Denali Park Road is only open to public vehicles via a lottery. The September’s Denali Road Lottery is very competitive, but if you are one of the lucky ones, it is unquestionably the trip of a lifetime. Not being offered in 2023.

What Things Can I do in Denali’s Last Frontier National Park?

Ride the Buses or Drive the Road

On our first trip (2012) to Denali, we took two different bus tours into the park. The Natural History tour was a short half-day trip that helped us get a general feel for the park. Staying at the Riley Campground gave us early access to all the amenities. We also did the full Kantishna Experience Tour (now called the Denali Experience Tour). The bus takes you the entire 92-miles to the old gold town of Kantishna. Narrated by a National Park Service Interpretive Ranger, we got to experience lots of wildlife (ptarmigans, lynx, moose, bear and caribou) and even got to do some panning for gold. It was a long day (12hrs) but worth every penny. Wonder lake and the Kantishna Roadhouse Lodge just some stops we made.

NOTE: Currently Denali Backcountry Lodge and  Kantishna Roadhouse are the only access to Kantishna/Wonder Lake Area. Only a few guests accepted for these all-Inclusive fly in adventures.

On our second trip in 2021 (Covid year), we entered and received the Road lottery permit driving to the Teklanika River Rest Area (MM 30). The scenery was just as breathtaking as we remembered. We saw grizzly bear, moose, and Dall sheep. Sadly, on this trip, the mountain did not show itself.

Discover Denali National Park’s Visitor Centers: Your Gateway to Alaska’s Last Frontier

Denali Visitor Center: Alaska Wilderness Exploration Starts Here

We started our journey at the Denali Visitor Center, which is the main hub of Denali National Park. Exploring the park’s history and environment at its engaging museum and then enjoy the award-winning movie about the park to discover the wonders of Alaska’s natural scenery. Here’s what you can enjoy:

• Skilled park rangers offer trail maps, hiking tips and travel advice for visiting Denali helping you explore the tough Alaskan landscape.
• Join a free walking tour led by a ranger to see wildlife, discover Denali’s ecosystems or enjoy stargazing under the northern lights.
• Have fun with your family by picking up Junior Ranger Activity Books for kids. You can also collect passport stamps from Denali National Park, which is great for those who love souvenirs!

Eielson Visitor Center (Mile 66): A Hidden Gem in Alaska’s Wild Heart

From the Eielson Visitor Center on a clear day, you will get breathtaking views of the tallest mountain in North America. Although it is closed now because of a landslide in 2023, make sure to include these exciting things in your future Denali plans. Don’t miss the exciting exhibits! Check out the hands-on displays like a 3D map showing the famous climbing paths of Denali and the story behind its famous intertwined moose antlers.

Eielson Alpine Trail: In 2012, we took a hike on this steep trail that offers substantial rewards. The 8-mile trail seems longer than it actually is! Along the was we experienced panoramic views of the Alaska Range from all angles. We did this in the spring. Brightly colored wildflowers filled the meadows. In the fall, the hills are full of wild blueberries.

Explore the Murie Science and Learning Center: Denali’s Hub for Wilderness Discovery

I loved discovering how science learning and adventure come together at the Murie Science and Learning Center in Denali National Park. This lively center pays tribute to conservation leaders Olaus and Mardy Murie and encourages visitors to connect with the park’s delicate ecosystems. In the winter, this location acts as the visitor center. It is open from 9:30 AM to 5 PM from the middle of September to the middle of May. We found many interactive displays about Alaska’s famous animals like grizzly bears and caribou. We also learned how scientists keep track of where these animals live. I often share podcast stories about natural history with my students as a teacher. The Murie Center is more than a museum; it serves as a hands-on classroom for learning about sustainable tourism and protecting Alaska’s last frontier.

Experience the Denali Sled Dog Kennels: Alaska’s Iconic Canine Adventurers

Don’t miss the chance to visit the free show at the Denali Sled Dog Kennels. The Parks Kennel welcomes visitors every day of the year from 8 am to 5 pm. You can reach the kennels by car, take the free park shuttle from the visitor center or hike on the Denali Roadside or Rock Creek Trails. Stepping into the world of Denali’s legendary sled dogs, a top-rated attraction in Denali National Park was a thrilling slice of Alaska’s last frontier. Home to the park’s boisterous, hardworking huskies, this living museum celebrates a century-old Alaskan tradition.

We got there right when the dogs were being taken out for a ride on the wheeled vehicle. They were barking and howling a lot. These dogs enjoy pulling sleds. The ranger explained the history and mentioned that these are basically the only way for rangers to get around during the winter. The best part is getting to meet the dogs and puppies after the demonstration. They are really cute!

Denali – The Last Frontier: Must-Pack Essentials for Hiking Alaska’s Wild Trails

We found hiking in Alaska’s Last Frontier provided us with a unique adventure-tall mountains, clear rivers and lots of wildlife. This rough wilderness needs careful planning, especially if you want to explore Denali’s wild and unpredictable landscape. To ensure you have a fun and safe hiking adventure, here’s a list of important items you should bring when exploring the beautiful landscapes of Denali.

• Begin with a moisture-wicking shirt and long thermal underwear to help keep sweat away from your skin.
• An insulating mid-layer like a fleece or down jacket will keep you warm when the temperature gets colder, especially in higher places.
• A strong jacket and pants that keep out water and wind will shield you from rain, snow or unexpected storms.
• Select durable waterproof hiking boots that provide good ankle support and have a tread design suitable for slippery or rocky surfaces.
• Wear a beanie or hat to keep your head warm gloves to keep your hands warm and a buff or neck gaiter to shield yourself from the wind or sun. Sunscreen and bug spray in the summer are essential.
• Maps are important, but a compass or handheld GPS will help you feel safer exploring Denali’s wild areas, especially where trails are unmarked.
• Denali’s beauty is worth capturing. Want great photos of this amazing park? Charge your camera or phone before you go. Cold kills batteries fast, so pack extras. Bring extra memory cards too. See Denali’s wildlife up close. Binoculars keep you safe while viewing animals.
• The park is a wilderness area with plenty of grizzly bears, so consider taking bear spray.
• Water is a must! Drinking fountains and water bottle refilling stations are at the Murie Science and Learning Center, the Denali Visitor Center, and at the Denali Bus Depot. You can see our entire packing list for Alaska National Parks here.

Denali: The Last Frontier – Hiking Trails Where Adventure Never Stops

• Horseshoe Lake Trail: This 1-mile loop near the visitor center has a steep drop but the path levels out by the beautiful Horseshoe Lake where you can see pleasant views of the Nenana River. It was amazing to watch a beaver pull a log along the path. While a different beaver swam over to the beaver dam across the lake. A simple and quick hike that everyone can enjoy no matter their experience. We combined this with the Tiaga Loop Trail.
• The Savage River Loop Trail is 2 miles long loop. It is mostly flat and kept in good condition. The trail makes a loop by going up one side of the river, crossing over on a footbridge and returning along the other side.
• The Teklanika Trail is a 5-mile loop. In the Lower Tanana dialect, it is called Toch’edha Nik’a which means “Water Amulet River.” This trail mainly goes alongside the river that is fed by glaciers and filled with silt. You can walk in either direction on the wide gravel riverbed for as far as you like before heading back to the road. The wide views of the tundra. Make sounds while walking on the trail to prevent surprising a bear.

Join a Ranger for a Guided Discovery Hike Through The Last Frontier

Denali National Park offers a variety of hiking opportunities for visitors to explore the park’s natural beauty and wildlife. One of the most popular options is the Denali Discovery Hikes, which are guided hikes that provide visitors with an up-close and personal experience of the park’s backcountry wilderness. You may sign up for a hike one to two days in advance, and you can only sign up in person at the Denali Visitor Center. No morning sign ups as these start 8 am before the visitor center is open. The hike is free, however if the bus goes beyond mile-15 you will need to pay the bus fare.

An experienced and knowledgeable guide provides insights into the park’s ecology, geology, and wildlife. The “off trail” hike ranges from moderate to challenging and covers a variety of terrain, from tundra, river crossings to forests. These hikes can last anywhere from a few hours to a full day (10 hrs). Discovery hikes require being prepared for any conditions, including getting your feet wet, and climbing in elevation. Remember, this requires a bit of preparation beforehand.

Discover Denali: A Guide to All 6 Campgrounds in Alaska’s National Park & Preserve

Campground Information & Rules

• Reserve far in advance – https://www.reservedenali.com/
• You MUST check-in for all the campgrounds is at the Riley Creek Mercantile or the Denali Bus Depot. 
•  If you are staying in the Teklanika campground, purchase the TEK-Pass-$40 flat-rate access to green park buses.
• There are no RV hookups in the park campgrounds.
• Operation of generators is from 8 am to 10 am, and 4 pm to 8 pm. Quiet hours are between 10 pm and 6 am.
• The Riley Creek Mercantile has the only showers ($4.50) dump station and laundry ($4.00). 
• Campgrounds in the backcountry require that you drive to your site and park your RV/car for the duration of your stay. Must use the park shuttles to traverse the park road further into the park (you cannot go east towards the front entrance).
• You must take everything you need for the duration of your stay for campgrounds beyond Savage River.

Riley Creek Campground (MM 0.4)

It was mid-day when we arrived at Denali National Park & Preserve. The Park Road leads 0.3-miles west to Riley Creek Mercantile and Riley Creek Campground. This is the main front-country campground in the park and is always full during peak season. Make reservations for months in advance. Luckily, I am a planner.

The campsites lie within dense moss carpeted boreal forest, giving the illusion of privacy. Many are within walking distance of the showers and the visitor center. However, you are free to use the Riley Campground Loop shuttle. The campground is located close to Denali Park Village for easy access to restaurants, excursions, and groceries.

We made a small fire to keep the mosquitoes away while we set up camp. This was the only place on our trip we had an issue with the mosquitoes. Tomorrow we are looking forward to the Denali Natural History Tour in the Park and the Kantishna Experience Tour is our last day in the park.

Denali National Park’s: Lesser-Known Campgrounds in Alaska’s Wilderness

• Savage River Campground (MM 12.8) – 32 sites- Flush Toilets. Close to good hiking trails. They spread campsites out-very private. Attend a ranger program in the evening.
• Sanctuary River Campground (MM 22.6) – 6 sites – For tent campers only on a first-come, first-serve basis. Nestled beside the Sanctuary River.
• Teklanika Campground (MM 29.1) – 53 sites- This is a fairly wooded campground. You can see your neighbors, but there are plenty of trees and vegetation around to make you feel you’re secluded. The minimum stay is 3 days for RVs.
• Igloo Creek Campground (MM 34) – 7 sites-No potable water-tent only. On the eponymous creek, in the valley between Cathedral and Igloo mountain.
• Wonder Lake Campground (MM 85.9) –  28 tent-only sites. On the shores of the lake, the mosquitoes can be ferocious, bring lots of bug spray or head-net!

Final Thoughts: Best Reasons to Visit Denali – The Last Frontier

John Muir, America’s most famous naturalist, and conservationist said it best. For those that desire solitude, you’ll find it in Denali. Visiting Denali National Park was definitely one highlight of our Alaskan vacation. If you enjoy visiting national parks, love scenery, and nature or are a hiking enthusiast, then you must put Denali National Park on your Alaskan To-Do List!

Have you taken a Denali National Park tour? Do you have any helpful tips to SHARE? What else should people know before visiting Denali National Park and Preserve?