Denali National Park

Denali Overview

Denali National Park and Preserve, located in Interior Alaska, USA, is a vast wilderness home to North America’s highest peak, Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley. Spanning an impressive area of approximately 6,190 square miles (about 16,000 square kilometers), the park was established in 1917 to protect its diverse wildlife and the majestic landscapes of the Alaska Range.

Denali stands at a towering height of 20,310 feet (6,190 meters), dominating the landscape with its snow-capped peak and serving as a beacon for adventurers and nature lovers. The park’s environment is a dramatic mix of tundra, forests, and glaciers, offering habitats for a wide array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, Dall sheep, caribou, and moose.

One of the unique aspects of Denali National Park is its single, 92-mile long road that delves into the heart of the park, providing visitors with unparalleled opportunities to experience the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Access to the park road is limited to park buses for most of its length beyond the Savage River checkpoint, in an effort to preserve the natural environment and minimize human impact.

Denali offers numerous outdoor activities, from hiking and mountaineering to wildlife viewing and photography. The park’s vast, unspoiled landscapes provide an ideal setting for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature. For the adventurous, climbing Denali presents one of the most challenging mountaineering experiences in the world.

The park also places a strong emphasis on education and conservation, with visitor centers and ranger-led programs designed to enhance public understanding of the park’s ecological systems and cultural heritage.

Denali National Park and Preserve stands as a symbol of wild, untouched America, inviting visitors to explore its wonders and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Alaska Range. Its combination of high mountain peaks, diverse wildlife, and expansive wilderness areas make it an unforgettable destination for all who venture into the Last Frontier.

Park Map

Denali National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Predators

Denali National Park, a pristine wilderness in the heart of Alaska, is a sanctuary for some of North America’s most iconic predators. Amidst its vast landscapes of tundra, forests, and glaciers, these apex predators play a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance, each adapted to survive in the rugged beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Visitors to Denali are often awed by the sight of these magnificent creatures, who embody the wild spirit of one of the last great frontiers.

Grizzly Bear – A symbol of the wild, Grizzly Bears roam the park’s vast expanses, powerful and solitary, searching for berries, salmon, and small mammals.

Gray Wolf – Elusive and social, Gray Wolves move in packs across Denali’s landscapes, their howls a haunting reminder of the wilderness that thrives within the park’s boundaries.

Wolverine – Rarely seen, Wolverines are solitary and formidable predators, known for their strength and versatility in hunting and scavenging in the harsh Arctic environment.

Lynx – With their tufted ears and large paws, Lynx are specially adapted to hunting in snowy conditions, preying on snowshoe hares and other small animals.

Golden Eagle – Majestic in flight, Golden Eagles are skilled hunters, soaring high above the tundra and forests in search of hares, marmots, and birds.

Red Fox – Adaptable and cunning, Red Foxes are spotted throughout Denali, their varied diet allowing them to thrive in diverse habitats within the park.

Bald Eagle – America’s national bird, the Bald Eagle, is a powerful predator in Denali, often seen near rivers and lakes hunting for fish.

American Marten – Agile and elusive, the American Marten navigates the park’s forests in search of rodents, birds, and insects, a small but effective predator.

Northern Goshawk – A fierce and formidable raptor, the Northern Goshawk hunts birds and small mammals, a stealthy presence in Denali’s dense woodlands.

Coyote – Coyotes are versatile predators in Denali, hunting alone or in pairs for a wide range of prey, from rodents to ungulates, adapting to all seasons.

The predator species of Denali National Park, from the powerful grizzly bear to the swift coyote, play essential roles in the park’s ecosystem, captivating visitors with their beauty, resilience, and the dynamic natural dramas they enact.

Amidst the park’s rugged mountains, vast tundra, and dense forests, these species adapt and thrive, contributing to the rich tapestry of life in this spectacular Alaskan wilderness. From the smallest bird to the largest mammal, each creature adds to the allure of Denali, offering visitors a glimpse into the interconnectedness of nature in one of America’s most iconic national parks.

Caribou – Roaming the vast tundra in large herds, Caribou are a vital part of the park’s ecosystem, their migrations a spectacular display of wilderness in motion.

Moose – The largest member of the deer family, Moose are often seen in the park’s wetlands and forests, browsing on willows and aquatic plants.

Dall Sheep – With their impressive curled horns, Dall Sheep are a symbol of Denali, agilely navigating steep cliffs and rocky outcrops in search of grasses and lichens.

Snowshoe Hare – Adapted to the snowy environment, Snowshoe Hares change color with the seasons, from brown in summer to white in winter, blending into the landscape.

Arctic Ground Squirrel – A common sight in Denali, these ground squirrels are crucial for aerating the soil and serving as prey for many of the park’s predators.

Beaver – As nature’s engineers, Beavers play a critical role in creating wetland habitats, their dams and lodges a common feature along the park’s waterways.

Ptarmigan – The state bird of Alaska, Ptarmigans also change color seasonally, their plumage helping them remain camouflaged against the tundra and snow.

Hoary Marmot – Often called the “whistle pig” for their loud alarm calls, Hoary Marmots are social creatures, living in colonies among the park’s rocky areas.

American Pika – These small, mountain-dwelling relatives of rabbits are known for their high-pitched calls and for gathering and storing vegetation for the winter.

Trumpeter Swan – The largest of North American waterfowl, Trumpeter Swans are a majestic sight on Denali’s lakes and rivers, known for their powerful, trumpeting call.

The diverse array of non-predator species in Denali National Park, from the solitary moose to the social hoary marmot, showcases the incredible adaptability and beauty of wildlife in Alaska’s natural landscapes, captivating the hearts of those who venture into this wild and pristine territory.

Denali

America's Tallest

Denali, also known as Mount McKinley, is North America’s highest peak, towering at 20,310 feet (6,190 meters) above sea level.

Located in Denali National Park in Alaska, this majestic mountain dominates the landscape with its snow-capped summit and rugged slopes.

The best places to view Denali include the park’s scenic overlooks, such as Stony Hill Overlook, Eielson Visitor Center, and Wonder Lake.

These vantage points offer unobstructed views of the mountain’s awe-inspiring beauty, surrounded by pristine wilderness and vast expanses of tundra.

Additionally, flightseeing tours provide unparalleled opportunities to witness Denali’s grandeur from above, allowing visitors to marvel at its massive glaciers, sheer cliffs, and imposing peaks.

Whether viewed from the ground or the air, Denali captivates all who behold its splendor, earning its place as one of the world’s most iconic mountains.

Denali National Park Pictures

See All Pictures

Share your clicks with us

You can now upload photos of national parks with just few steps.

Engaging Denali National Park

Scenic Bus Tours

Exploring Denali’s vast landscape via bus tours is a popular way to experience the park’s stunning scenery and diverse ecosystems. These guided tours take visitors deep into the heart of Denali, offering panoramic views of towering mountains, expansive tundra, and pristine wilderness. Knowledgeable park rangers provide insights into the park’s geology, wildlife, and history, enhancing the overall experience.

Hiking and Backpacking

With over 350 miles (563 kilometers) of maintained hiking trails, Denali National Park offers endless opportunities for hikers and backpackers to explore its rugged terrain.

From leisurely nature walks to challenging backcountry routes, there’s a trail for every skill level and interest. Hikers can marvel at sweeping vistas, traverse alpine meadows, and even attempt to summit Denali, North America’s highest peak.

Flightseeing Tours

For a bird’s-eye view of Denali’s awe-inspiring landscapes, visitors can opt for flightseeing tours. These exhilarating aerial excursions provide breathtaking panoramas of the park’s vast wilderness, including glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and pristine lakes. Experienced pilots narrate the journey, pointing out notable landmarks and offering insights into the park’s natural and

Denali National Park Trails

Horseshoe Lake Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 100 feet (30 meters)

Description: This gentle trail leads to the picturesque Horseshoe Lake, offering serene views of the water and a chance to see beavers at work in their natural habitat. The trail descends through a spruce forest to the lake’s edge, where hikers can enjoy the quiet beauty of the Alaskan wilderness and views of the Nenana River.

Savage River Loop Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: Circumnavigating the Savage River, this easy loop offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the chance to spot wildlife, including Dall sheep, moose, and eagles. The trail is mostly flat, making it accessible for most visitors, and includes a bridge crossing over the river, adding to the scenic variety.

Mt. Healy Overlook Trail

Rating: Moderate to Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 4.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 1,700 feet (518 meters)

Description: Climbing from the Denali Visitor Center, this trail offers a challenging hike with rewarding views of Denali National Park and the Nenana River valley. The trail can be steep in places but provides hikers with a sense of accomplishment and stunning vistas from the overlook, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more strenuous hike.

Triple Lakes Trail

Rating: Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 9.5 miles one way with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet (305 meters)

Description: This longer hike takes adventurers past three beautiful alpine lakes, through dense forests, and over ridges with sweeping views of the Denali wilderness. The trail is known for its diversity of landscapes, including opportunities for wildlife viewing and fishing. Hikers can explore the heart of the park on this challenging but rewarding trail.

Eielson Alpine Trail

Rating: Moderate to Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1 mile round trip with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet (305 meters)

Description: Accessible from the Eielson Visitor Center, this steep trail climbs above the treeline into alpine tundra, offering unparalleled views of Denali (weather permitting) and the surrounding vast landscapes. The trail is short but steep, providing a quick, intense workout and the chance to experience the park’s alpine environment up close.

Related National Parks

Sources

Alaska, Denali National Park, https://www.alaska.org/destination/denali-national-park, retrieved April 2024.
Department of the Interior, 9 Things you didn’t know about Denali National Park and Preserve, https://www.doi.gov/blog/9-things-you-didnt-know-about-denali-national-park-and-preserve, retrieved April 2024.
Live Science, Denali, Facts About North America’s Tallest Mountain, https://www.livescience.com/40595-denali-mount-mckinley.html, retrieved April 2024.
National Geographic, Everything to know about Denali National Park and Preserve, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/national-parks/denali-national-park/, retrieved April 2024.
National Park Service, Denali, https://www.nps.gov/dena/index.htm, retrieved April 2024.
Travel Alaska, Denali National Park and Preserve, https://www.travelalaska.com/Destinations/Parks-and-Public-Lands/Denali-National-Park-and-Preserve.aspx, retrieved April 2024.

Denali Overview

Park Map