15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Denali National Park

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Hey there, fellow adventurers! I’m excited to share my personal journey with you through Denali National Park, a place that truly captures the essence of Alaska’s wild beauty. Nestled in the heart of Alaska, Denali is a breathtaking wilderness that calls to the adventurer in all of us. Whether you’re drawn to its towering peaks, abundant wildlife, or pristine landscapes, there’s something here for everyone who loves nature as much as I do.

Introduction to Things to Do in Denali National Park

Denali National Park and Preserve is enormous—spanning over six million acres, making it one of the largest national parks in the United States. And, of course, it’s home to Denali, North America’s highest peak, which stands majestically at 20,310 feet. The park’s diverse ecosystems range from lush forests and alpine tundra to glacial rivers and expansive valleys, offering a stunning backdrop for every visitor. And the wildlife? It’s incredible. I’m talking grizzly bears, moose, wolves, and Dall sheep, all living their lives against this spectacular scenery.

Whether you’re an experienced explorer or visiting Denali for the first time, there’s no shortage of amazing activities to dive into. Let me walk you through some of the best things you can do in Denali National Park based on my own experiences getting to Denali via the Alaska Railway from Anchorage.

1. Take a Bus Tour into the Heart of Denali

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the park is by hopping on a bus tour. Trust me, it’s worth it. The park offers a variety of bus tours, from narrated tours to flexible shuttle services. These tours are an excellent way to see the park’s stunning landscapes and spot wildlife while learning about Denali’s rich history and ecology.

Narrated Bus Tours: These are perfect if you’re new to the park. I took the Tundra Wilderness Tour, and it was fantastic. The guide’s insights added so much to the experience, and I got to see everything from sweeping vistas to wildlife up close.

Shuttle Bus Services: If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the shuttle bus is the way to go. You can hop on and off as you please, exploring various points along the park road. I highly recommend stopping at the Eielson Visitor Center and Wonder Lake—both offer breathtaking views.

2. Hike the Scenic Trails

Denali National Park boasts a variety of hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers, from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks. Hiking in Denali allows you to experience the park’s diverse landscapes up close and personal. My nephew a and I did a 4-mile nature easy hike though the park and it was such a refreshing way to enjoy the amazing views of the National Park, the Riley Creek, and the trail suspension bridge.

Horseshoe Lake Trail: This 3-mile round-trip trail is perfect for families and beginner hikers. The trail winds through a forested area before opening up to a picturesque lake. Along the way, you may spot beavers and other wildlife.

Mount Healy Overlook Trail: For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Mount Healy Overlook Trail offers a rewarding experience. This 4.5-mile round-trip trail climbs steadily through the forest, providing panoramic views of the park and the Alaska Range from the overlook.

Savage River Loop Trail: This 2-mile loop trail follows the Savage River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s an excellent option for a moderate hike with opportunities to see wildlife.

Triple Lakes Trail: The Triple Lakes Trail is a longer and more strenuous hike, spanning 9.5 miles one way. The trail takes you through dense forests, across ridges, and past three beautiful lakes. It’s a great choice for experienced hikers looking for a full-day adventure.

3. Experience Wildlife Viewing

Denali National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, and spotting animals in their natural habitat is one of the park’s main attractions. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of species, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Grizzly Bears: Denali is home to a healthy population of grizzly bears. These majestic creatures can often be seen foraging for berries, fishing in rivers, or roaming the tundra. The park’s bus tours and shuttle services increase your chances of spotting these magnificent animals.

Moose: Moose are frequently seen in Denali, especially in the park’s lower elevations and along rivers and lakes. Keep an eye out for these large herbivores, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours.

Dall Sheep: Dall sheep are commonly found on the park’s rugged mountainsides. These agile climbers are easily recognizable by their white coats and curved horns. The Polychrome Pass area is a good spot to look for Dall sheep.

Caribou: Caribou herds roam the park’s tundra and valleys. These migratory animals are often seen in groups, grazing on vegetation. The Teklanika River area is known for caribou sightings.

Birdwatching: Denali is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 160 bird species recorded in the park. Look for raptors such as golden eagles and peregrine falcons, as well as waterfowl and songbirds in the park’s diverse habitats.

4. Go on a Ranger-Led Program

Denali National Park offers a variety of ranger-led programs that provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the park’s natural and cultural history. These programs are typically free and offer a range of activities suitable for all ages.

Guided Hikes: Join a ranger for a guided hike to learn about the park’s flora, fauna, and geology. These hikes vary in difficulty and duration, making them accessible to everyone from families with young children to seasoned hikers.

Evening Programs: Attend an evening program at one of the park’s campgrounds or visitor centers. These programs often include slide shows, talks, and interactive presentations on topics such as wildlife, conservation, and the history of Denali.

Junior Ranger Program: The Junior Ranger Program is a great way for kids to engage with the park. Children can complete a series of activities to earn a Junior Ranger badge, learning about the park’s ecosystems and wildlife along the way.

5. Explore the Denali Visitor Center

The Denali Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for your Denali adventure. The center offers a wealth of information about the park, including exhibits, films, and educational displays. Park rangers are available to answer questions and provide recommendations for your visit.

Exhibits and Displays: Explore the visitor center’s exhibits to learn about Denali’s natural and cultural history. Displays cover topics such as the park’s geology, wildlife, and indigenous cultures.

Films and Presentations: Watch a film or attend a presentation to gain a deeper understanding of Denali’s unique features. The visitor center offers a variety of films that showcase the park’s landscapes and wildlife.

Bookstore: The visitor center’s bookstore offers a selection of books, maps, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up a guidebook or a keepsake from your visit.

6. Take a Flightseeing Tour

For a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a flightseeing tour over Denali National Park. These tours offer a bird’s-eye view of the park’s stunning landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, and valleys. Flightseeing tours provide a unique perspective and allow you to see areas of the park that are otherwise inaccessible.

Even though I didn’t personally take one (my sister forbid me from taking my nephew on a helicopter ride), I think this would’ve been an amazing experience with spectacular views!

Denali Scenic Flights: Several companies offer scenic flights over Denali, providing spectacular views of the Alaska Range and Denali itself. Some tours include landings on glaciers, allowing you to step out and explore the icy terrain.

Helicopter Tours: Helicopter tours offer a more intimate and flexible experience. These tours can take you to remote areas of the park, where you can land and explore on foot. Helicopter tours often include options for glacier landings and hiking excursions.

7. Try Rafting on the Nenana River

For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, consider rafting on the Nenana River. The river flows along the eastern boundary of Denali National Park and offers a range of rafting experiences, from calm floats to thrilling whitewater rapids.

Scenic Floats: If you prefer a more relaxed experience, opt for a scenic float trip. These trips provide a leisurely ride down the river, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery and spot wildlife along the banks.

Whitewater Rafting: For those seeking excitement, whitewater rafting trips offer a thrilling ride through the river’s rapids. Experienced guides navigate the rapids, ensuring a safe and exhilarating adventure.

8. Camp Under the Stars

Camping in Denali National Park is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the wilderness and experience the park’s natural beauty up close. The park offers several campgrounds, each providing a unique camping experience.

Riley Creek Campground: Located near the park entrance, Riley Creek Campground is the largest and most developed campground in Denali. It offers tent and RV sites, as well as amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a camp store.

Teklanika River Campground: Situated at mile 29 of the park road, Teklanika River Campground provides a more remote and rustic camping experience. The campground offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and river.

Wonder Lake Campground: For a truly scenic camping experience, consider staying at Wonder Lake Campground. Located at mile 85 of the park road, this campground offers breathtaking views of Denali and the Alaska Range. It’s a great spot for photography and wildlife viewing.

Backcountry Camping: For the ultimate wilderness experience, try backcountry camping in Denali. The park offers a permit system for backcountry camping, allowing you to explore and camp in remote areas. This option is best suited for experienced campers and hikers who are prepared for the challenges of backcountry travel.

9. Visit the Sled Dog Kennels

Denali National Park is home to the only working sled dog kennel in the U.S. National Park System. Visiting the sled dog kennels is a unique opportunity to learn about the role of sled dogs in the park’s history and ongoing operations.

I have actually done this a few times and it never disappoints!

Kennel Tours: The park offers free kennel tours during the summer months. During these tours, you can meet the dogs, learn about their training and care, and watch a sled dog demonstration. The park rangers provide insights into the history of dog sledding in Alaska and the important role sled dogs play in the park.

Sled Dog Demonstrations: One of the highlights of visiting the kennels is watching a sled dog demonstration. These demonstrations showcase the incredible strength and endurance of the sled dogs as they pull a wheeled cart around a track. It’s a thrilling experience that gives you a glimpse into the world of dog mushing.

10. Discover the Murie Science and Learning Center

The Murie Science and Learning Center (MSLC) is a hub for research and education in Denali National Park. The center offers a range of programs and exhibits that focus on the park’s natural and cultural resources.

Exhibits and Displays: The MSLC features interactive exhibits that highlight the park’s wildlife, geology, and ongoing scientific research. It’s a great place to learn about the latest discoveries and conservation efforts in Denali.

Educational Programs: The MSLC offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs include workshops, field courses, and hands-on activities that provide a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystems and scientific research.

Field Seminars: For those interested in a more immersive learning experience, the MSLC offers multi-day field seminars. These seminars are led by experts and cover topics such as wildlife biology, geology, and photography. Participants have the opportunity to explore the park in depth and gain valuable insights from knowledgeable instructors.

11. Explore the Savage River Area

The Savage River area is a popular destination for visitors to Denali National Park. Located at mile 15 of the park road, this area offers stunning scenery and a variety of recreational opportunities.

Savage River Loop Trail: As mentioned earlier, the Savage River Loop Trail is a scenic 2-mile loop that follows the Savage River. This trail is perfect for a leisurely hike with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Savage River Day Use Area: The day-use area at Savage River is a great spot for a picnic or a relaxing break. There are picnic tables and restrooms available, making it a convenient stop along the park road.

Savage Alpine Trail: For a more challenging hike, try the Savage Alpine Trail. This 4-mile trail climbs from the Savage River up to the alpine tundra, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is steep in sections but rewards hikers with stunning vistas.

12. Go Wildlife Spotting in the Teklanika River Area

The Teklanika River area, located at mile 30 of the park road, is known for its abundant wildlife and beautiful landscapes. This area is a great place to spot caribou, grizzly bears, and other wildlife.

Teklanika River Campground: The campground in this area is a popular choice for visitors who want to immerse themselves in the wilderness. Staying at Teklanika River Campground allows you to explore the surrounding area and increase your chances of wildlife sightings.

Wildlife Viewing: The Teklanika River area offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep your binoculars handy and be patient as you scan the tundra and riverbanks for animals. Early morning and late evening are the best times for wildlife spotting.

13. Discover Denali’s Winter Wonderland

While Denali National Park is most commonly visited during the summer months, winter in Denali offers a completely different and equally enchanting experience. The park transforms into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding.

Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing is a great way to explore Denali’s snowy landscapes. The park offers guided snowshoe walks during the winter months, providing an opportunity to learn about winter ecology and wildlife tracking.

Cross-Country Skiing: Denali has miles of trails suitable for cross-country skiing. Skiing through the park’s quiet, snow-covered terrain is a serene and beautiful experience. The Riley Creek Campground area is a popular spot for skiing.

Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of dog sledding in Denali’s winter wilderness. Several local operators offer dog sledding tours, providing a unique way to explore the park and learn about the tradition of dog mushing.

14. Photograph Denali’s Landscapes and Wildlife

Denali National Park is a photographer’s paradise, offering endless opportunities to capture its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, Denali provides a wealth of photographic subjects.

Landscape Photography: The park’s dramatic landscapes, including towering mountains, expansive tundra, and glacial rivers, provide breathtaking backdrops for photography. The viewpoints along the park road, such as Polychrome Pass and Stony Hill Overlook, offer spectacular photo opportunities.

Wildlife Photography: Denali’s abundant wildlife is a highlight for photographers. Be sure to bring a telephoto lens to capture close-up shots of animals from a safe distance. Patience and persistence are key to successful wildlife photography in the park.

Aurora Borealis: If you visit Denali during the fall or winter months, you may have the chance to photograph the Northern Lights. The dark skies and lack of light pollution make Denali an excellent location for capturing this natural phenomenon.

15. Attend Special Events and Programs

Denali National Park hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. These events offer unique opportunities to learn about the park and engage with its natural and cultural heritage.

Denali Music Festival: The Denali Music Festival is held annually in the summer and features performances by local and visiting musicians. The festival takes place in various locations within the park, providing a beautiful backdrop for enjoying music.

Denali Road Lottery: Each September, the park holds a lottery for permits to drive the entire length of the park road. Winners have the unique opportunity to explore the park’s interior by private vehicle, offering greater flexibility for wildlife viewing and photography.

Winterfest: Winterfest is an annual celebration of winter activities in Denali. The event includes guided snowshoe walks, skiing, dog sledding demonstrations, and educational programs. It’s a great way to experience the park’s winter wonders.

Conclusion

Denali National Park is a destination that offers something for everyone, from breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife to thrilling adventures and educational experiences. Whether you’re exploring the park’s scenic trails, embarking on a wildlife tour, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, Denali promises an unforgettable experience.

By taking the time to explore the many things to do in Denali National Park, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable place and create lasting memories. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the wonders of Denali. Your Alaskan adventure awaits!