Denali National Park Tour & Trip Packages

Denali National Park Overview

Get ready for a frosty adventure in Alaska's subarctic wilderness at Denali National Park. The park and preserve offer an awe-inspiring landscape of untouched tundra and taiga forests. It's a mystical world where the cold deserts and forests of the northern hemisphere meet. 

Standing tall at 20,310 feet (6,190 mt), Denali is the highest peak in North America. It holds deep significance for the Native American people who named it “Denali” meaning “The High One”. 

Though the landscape remains frozen for much of the year, adventure lovers can’t resist the cold allure of these towering mountains. 

Denali National Park Visitor Insights

• Country: USA

• Location: Alaska

• Size: 9,492 sq mi (24,584 sq km)

Denali National Park Major Attractions

Denali or Mount McKinley

Mt. Denali is the reason mountaineers and thrill-seekers make the pilgrimage to Alaska. As the tallest and most isolated peak in North America, it stands proudly like Everest but despite its extreme cold and challenging conditions, hundreds of climbers summit it annually.

If scaling Denali isn't on your list but you still want to witness its grandeur, there are plenty of ways. Hike up Kesugi Ridge or Mt. Healy Overlook Trail for a closer look. Moreover, you can take a flightseeing tour for an unforgettable aerial view of Denali or kayak across Byers Lake.

Denali Park Road

Denali Park Road is your only access to the treasures of Denali Park. Spanning 92 miles (148 km), it goes through Alaska’s awe-inspiring ecosystems taking you deeper into the heart of this pristine wilderness.

While private vehicles are only allowed for the first 15 miles (24 km), the true beauty of the park unfolds beyond that point. The further sections are accessible only by National Park Service (NPS) narrated and non-narrated bus tours. Opt for narrated bus tours like the Tundra Wilderness Tour or Denali Natural History Tour to discover the magic that lies within.

Wonder Lake

While Alaska is all about the frozen wonders, it also boasts a tranquil and most iconic lake. Its name says it all-–the Wonder Lake. Take a 5.5 hour-long shuttle bus to reach this serene spot where you can hike, camp, kayak, canoe, or simply bask in the calm surroundings.

Don't forget to capture that classic Denali photo at Reflection Pond, where the peak reflects in the water. While here, look out for the park’s famous "Big 5" animals: moose, grizzly bears, caribou, dall sheep, and foxes. 

Flightseeing Tours

One of the standout and a must-try experiences in your Denali National Park itinerary is a flightseeing tour in a small private jet. These flights have no age restrictions and offer impressive spectacles and unparalleled perspectives of the vast mountains and glaciers. For an extra thrill, opt for a landing tour where you can step onto a glacier!

Dog Sledding Tours

Another fascinating attraction in Denali are dog tours. Hop onto a sled and race through rugged trails as Alaskan huskies lead the way. These canines remain indispensable and play a crucial role in preserving the native wilderness. They are the lifeline of the Arctic region for over a century, braving sub-zero temperatures.

Best Time to Visit Denali National Park

You might think Denali National Park closes for most of the year due to the cold, but it's actually open year-round. However,  the main activities are available only in the summer  from June to August. Summer is the best time for Denali National Park hikes and peak climbs, so it draws mountaineers and hikers. If you want a little solace, visit in early June before the crowds arrive. In winter, the park is still open for skiing, snowshoeing, and winter biking. If you can handle the cold, fall is the perfect time to catch the Northern Lights at Denali.

Adventure Activities to do in Denali National Park

Hiking: Exploring Alaskan trails is an unforgettable experience you must include in your Denali National Park package. The Savage River Loop Trail and Savage Alpine Trail let you hike along the picturesque Savage River. For a scenic stroll, try the Horseshoe Lake Trail or challenge yourself with the tougher Mount Healy Overlook Trail. The Rock Creek Trail takes you to the Denali National Park Kennels.

Cycling: Denali offers a range of cycling  routes from easy campground loops to the hectic Roadside Bike Trail and many others.

Camping: Choose from campgrounds like Riley Creek, Savage River, Sanctuary Campground, Teklanika, Igloo Campground, and Wonder Lake. 

For more adventures, go on a Jeep or ATV tour, raft the Nenana River, or see the Northern Lights.

Essential Tips to Know Before Going on an Denali National Park Tour

• Pack layers and be ready for sudden changes in weather.

• Private vehicles are restricted beyond the first 15 miles (24 km) of Denali Park Road. You’ll need to book the bus tours, so plan ahead to avoid the seasonal rush and high prices.

• Pass by the park's visitor center for up-to-date information on Denali National Park trail conditions, closures, and wild animals. 

How much does it cost for a Denali National Park Tour?

Prices of Denali National Park tour packages vary based on the number of days, accommodation choices, and travel preferences. Considering their popularity, the cost of Denali National Park trips are affordable with options starting from $440. At AdventureTripr, we tailor your Denali National Park itinerary to fit your budget and preferences.

Denali National Park Accommodation

Accommodation options in Denali Park are minimal with mostly campgrounds available. There are a few hotels but they book up early. Consider staying outside the park in nearby areas like Talkeetna and Fairbanks or communities such as Healy and Cantwell, which offer hotels, motels, B&Bs, and lodges.

Different Denali National Park Tour Itinerary Available

Enjoy our four-day adventure in Denali National Park with options like ranger-led hikes, breathtaking flightseeing tours, and exciting dog sledding demonstrations. AdventureTripr can take care of your accommodations and craft a customized itinerary based on your interests. 

Frequently Asked Questions

 Question: How to reach Denali National Park & Preserve? 

Answer: You can fly into Fairbanks or Anchorage and drive the rest of the way. Alternatively, take the Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star Train or use bus services from nearby towns. Multiple motorcoach options are available from Fairbanks, Talkeetna, and Anchorage. However, based on the weather conditions these transport systems may be closed. Do check before you plan anything.

Question: Do I need an entry pass?

Answer: Yes. Ages 16 and older, need to get a pass that is valid for 7 days. 

Question: Do I need camping or climbing permits?

Answer: Yes. You have to make bus and camping reservations. You don’t need permits to backpack and hike around but if you plan to climb the Denali peak, you are required to pay for a permit 60 days prior to your visit.

Question: How do I move around the park?

Answer: Since private vehicles are not allowed for a major part of the exploration, you can select from a variety of shuttle bus services in Denali Park. For an all-rounded experience choose a narrated tour. 

Question: Can I travel with kids and family to Denali Park?

Answer: Yes, opt for dog kennel visits and activities like ATV rides, ziplining, boating, and visitor center tours.