What to do in Denali National Park

Discover the top activities to do in Denali National Park! Located in the heart of Alaska, Denali National Park and Preserve is a breathtaking wilderness area that spans over six million acres. Home to North America's tallest peak, Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley), this park offers a stunning backdrop for a wide range of outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Denali National Park is easily accessible by road, train, or air, with the Denali Park Road serving as the primary route into the park. This scenic road stretches 92 miles into the park, offering spectacular views and numerous opportunities to see wildlife such as grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. A ride on one of the park’s shuttle buses or guided tours is one of the most popular activities to do in Denali National Park.

For those who love hiking, Denali offers a variety of trails that cater to all levels of experience. The Horseshoe Lake Trail is a great starting point, providing a relatively easy hike with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forest. More experienced hikers might tackle the Mount Healy Overlook Trail, which rewards with panoramic vistas of the park’s rugged terrain. Hiking in Denali is one of the top activities to do in Denali National Park and offers a chance to immerse yourself in the pristine Alaskan wilderness.

Another must-do experience is the wildlife viewing. Denali is home to a diverse array of wildlife, and the park's vast, untouched landscapes provide an ideal environment for animals to thrive. Along with the "Big Five" (grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves), visitors might also spot eagles, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The best way to increase your chances of seeing wildlife is by taking a bus tour along the Denali Park Road, which is one of the signature activities to do in Denali National Park.

For a unique perspective of Denali, consider taking a flightseeing tour. These aerial tours offer breathtaking views of Denali’s towering peaks, glaciers, and expansive tundra. Some tours even include the opportunity to land on a glacier, allowing you to step out onto the ice and experience the grandeur of the Alaskan landscape up close.

In addition to its summer offerings, Denali National Park is also a winter wonderland. Visiting in the winter allows for activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. The park’s solitude and stunning snow-covered landscapes create a magical experience for those willing to brave the cold, making winter exploration one of the most rewarding activities to do in Denali National Park.

Camping is another way to fully experience the park’s natural beauty. Whether you choose to stay at a developed campsite along the Denali Park Road or venture into the backcountry for a more rugged experience, camping under the vast Alaskan sky is an unforgettable way to connect with nature.

No matter the season, Denali National Park offers a wealth of experiences that highlight the beauty and majesty of Alaska’s wilderness. Plan your visit to enjoy the many activities to do in Denali National Park, from hiking and wildlife viewing to flightseeing and winter adventures.