Introduction
Denali National Park and Preserve is a breathtaking natural wonder located in Alaska. The Park was established in 1917 and spans more than six million acres. The beautiful landscapes there consist of huge mountains, a wide variety of wildlife, and clean, untouched wilderness. The Park showcases Denali, North America’s tallest peak at 20,310 feet.
Geography and Landscape
Denali National Park showcases a wide range of geographical features. Another option for visitors is to explore the soaring peaks, glacial valleys, and wide-open tundra. It kicks off at an elevation of 1,500 feet and soars to over 20,000. The great diversity in this variation creates opportunities for unique ecosystems, each of which can foster varieties of plants and animals. The Park is complemented by glaciers, rivers, and lakes, which add to its unique natural beauty.
Wildlife Diversity
Denali has a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can see grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep. Birdwatchers will love the sight of golden eagles, ptarmigans, and much else besides. Wildlife has much more land on which to live successfully in this excellent wilderness park.
The Seasons of Denali
There is no one right season to visit Denali. Every season in this Park has its own set of experiences. Blooming wildflowers and migratory birds return with the spring. In summer, the Park draws visitors looking to hike, camp, and experience its splendor. Fall decorates this colorfully crimson, orange, and yellow wooded landscape. Denali, in winter, gets a dusting of snow, perfect for all kinds of snowy fun.
Recreational Activities
Recreational activities abound in Denali National Park. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. Some of the Glaciers in Alaska provide opportunities to view healthier wildlife, seeing them at their best unprotected. For campers, designated camping areas allow you to savor nocturnal displays of starlight away from sounds and lights.
The Park additionally offers bus-guided tours for the more adventurous. The tours provide an additional understanding of the Park’s environment and background. Visitors can also join ranger-led programs on wildlife, geology, and conservation.
The Road into Denali
Running 92 miles through the Park, Denali Park Road offers magnificent vistas. For the first 15 miles, private vehicles are allowed. Visitors can access the Park beyond that point by shuttle buses. They serve as transports to different locations by the side of the road.
Lakeside, mountain views, and glimpses of Denali are better than the bus. There are stops along the way for visitors to explore and take photos. Numerous wildlife encounters can be seen, thereby making the journey a memorable one.
Visitor Centers & Other Facilities
No visit to Denali National Park is complete until you’ve stopped in at one of the visitor centers. Denali Visitor Center Visitors will find interpretive information on park history, the North American Grasslands Exhibit, and upcoming celebrations. The Murie Science and Learning Center is specifically dedicated to educational activities within the park.
The Park is also equipped with campgrounds, restrooms, and food areas. Closely adjacent to the live adventure experienced at Denali, visitors can cozy up & dine denizen-style with lodging and dining experiences from The Denali Park Village.
Conservation Efforts
Many Denali National Park attractions focus on preserving the land. The Park has the protection of its natural resources and wildlife habitats. Park staff conduct research to track the status of ecosystems and wildlife populations over time. They help maintain the Park’s vulnerable ecosystem for generations to come.
Education programs also focus on environmental awareness. We support Leave No Trace for all our visitors and you are encouraged to do so while visiting. This prevents human disturbance from the already delicate ecosystem.
Getting to Denali National Park
It’s convenient to travel as it is perfect to make your way into Denali National Park. The Park is about 240 miles north of Anchorage and 120 miles south of Fairbanks. The George Parks Highway carries tourists from Anchorage and Fairbanks directly to the Park.
In addition, visitors may board one of the trains offered by the Alaska Railroad, which rides to/from and into/within the Park. Shuttle buses provide transportation within the park, getting you quickly to key features once you are in Denali.
