DENALI
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 4,740,911 ACRES

EST. 02 26 1917

ALASKA

Planning a Trip to
Denali National Park

Denali National Park and Preserve is one of the most beautiful and remote parks in the United States. Located in the heart of Alaska, it features the highest mountain in North America, Mount Denali, as well as stunning tundra landscapes, glaciers, and abundant wildlife. Denali is home to a variety of animal species, including grizzly bears, caribou, wolves, moose, and Dall sheep. Visitors can explore the park by car, foot, or bike, or take a guided tour to get the most out of their experience. Denali National Park is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the majestic beauty of Alaska.

"the grandest of all special temples of Nature" and "the only one of the world's great parks that could not be improved."
- John Muir

"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world - the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware.
-Theodore Roosevelt

BEST TIME TO GO

The best time to visit Denali National Park is in the summer months between June and August. This is when the park is open and accessible, with warmer temperatures and longer days. There are plenty of activities to enjoy during this time, like hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. However, the months of May and September are also a great time to visit, as the days are still long and the temperatures are mild. During the winter months, visitors will find snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, as well as the opportunity to see the aurora borealis. Spring is a great time to visit, too, as the days are getting longer and the wildlife are coming out of hibernation. No matter what time of year you visit, Denali National Park is an unforgettable experience.

The best time to visit Denali National Park depends on the activities you plan to do. For wildlife viewing, May and June are great months since the animals are more active and the vegetation is lush. For hiking and camping, the months of July and August offer the most comfortable temperatures and hours of daylight. If you are looking to take advantage of the night sky, the months of September and October offer the darkest skies. If you are looking to take advantage of the park's snow, winter months are the best time. However, the park can become quite cold with temperatures often dropping below -20 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, it is best to avoid visiting Denali National Park in the winter if you are not prepared for extreme cold.

OVERVIEW

Denali National Park is one of the most popular parks in Alaska, offering breathtaking landscapes and a variety of wildlife. With its majestic mountains, vast tundra, meandering rivers, and diverse wildlife, Denali National Park is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the Alaskan wilderness. The best things about Denali National Park are the incredible views of Mount McKinley, the tallest mountain in North America, the opportunity to spot grizzly bears, wolves, and caribou, and the chance to take part in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing.

WEATHER

Denali National Park is known for its diverse and extreme weather. During the summer, temperatures can reach highs of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius), while during the winter temperatures can drop as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 degrees Celsius). In spring and fall, temperatures usually reach around 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit (4-10 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is also common throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and September. Snow is common during the winter months, with the snowiest months being December, January and February. When visiting Denali, it's important to pack accordingly for the season and to be prepared for unpredictable weather.

Denali National Park is a unique and diverse ecosystem, home to a variety of wildlife and plants. The park is home to over 900 species of plants, 39 mammals, 169 birds, and 6 amphibians. The park is also home to the world’s largest population of Dall sheep, grizzly bears, and caribou. The park's ecology is also affected by the extreme weather conditions, with temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Denali National Park is an important habitat for many species, and its ecology is protected and managed by the National Park System.

GEAR

1. Hiking boots – Invest in some good quality, waterproof and sturdy hiking boots that are designed for mountain terrain.

2. Backpack – Look for a comfortable, lightweight and waterproof backpack that is designed to fit your body type.

3. Sleeping Bag – Choose a sleeping bag that is rated for arctic temperatures and won’t weigh you down.

4. Rain Gear – Make sure to pack a waterproof jacket and pants to protect you from the elements.

5. Trekking Poles – These are essential for providing stability and support for your hikes.

6. Water Bottle – Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to help reduce waste.

7. Headlamp – Bring a headlamp for exploring caves and dark trails at night.

8. Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes and other bugs can be abundant, so pack some bug spray.

9. Sun Protection – Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.

10. Binoculars – These will help you spot wildlife from a distance.

Denali National Park is an amazing destination for backpacking and camping. Here are the top ten pieces of gear to have for a successful and enjoyable backpacking trip in Denali:
1. Quality tent: A durable and lightweight tent is essential for any backpacking trip in Denali.
2. Sleeping Bag: A good quality sleeping bag is essential for staying warm on cold Denali nights.
3. Backpack: A good quality, comfortable backpack is essential for carrying all your gear.
4. Waterproof Jacket: A waterproof jacket is essential for staying dry in rainy Denali weather.
5. Hiking Boots: A good pair of hiking boots is essential for tackling Denali's rugged terrain.
6. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, so bring a large water bottle for your trip.
7. Headlamp: A headlamp is essential for navigating through dark Denali nights.
8. Navigation Tools: A map and compass are essential for navigating in Denali.
9. First Aid Kit: A comprehensive first aid kit is essential for any backpacking trip.
10. Bear Spray: Bear spray is essential for ensuring safety while hiking in Denali.

GEAR UP

HISTORY

Denali National Park and Preserve was established in 1917 as Mount McKinley National Park, making it the oldest national park in Alaska. The park was renamed Denali in 1980, which is the traditional Athabascan name for the mountain that dominates the park's landscape. Denali is home to North America's tallest peak, Mount McKinley, which stands at an impressive 20,310 feet. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves and Dall sheep, which can all be seen in their natural habitat. Denali is also known for its stunning views of the Alaska Range and its breathtaking glaciers. Visitors can explore the park's various trails and see its beautiful landscapes. Denali National Park and Preserve is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Alaska.

Denali National Park is home to a number of legendary stories, such as the story of the Denali Yeti. According to legend, the Yeti inhabits the park and is said to be a large, hairy creature with superhuman strength. Other stories include the tale of the mysterious lights at the base of Mount Denali, believed to be the spirits of those who perished in the park. There is also the story of the giant bear that roams the park, said to be the largest grizzly bear in the world. Finally, there is the legend of the great golden eagle that lives atop the mountain, said to protect the park from harm. All of these stories make Denali National Park a magical and mysterious place to visit.

RECOMMENDED

Denali National Park is full of breathtaking sights and activities to enjoy year-round. Here are the top 10 recommendations for things to do during each season:

Spring: Take a guided tour of the park, go dog sledding, view wildlife, go snowshoeing, explore the backcountry, and take a scenic flight tour.

Summer: Go backpacking, take a bus tour, go fishing, visit the Murie Science and Learning Center, white-water rafting, and take a nature walk.

Fall: Enjoy the fall colors, go on a bike ride, take a guided hike, take a rafting trip, take a horseback ride, and visit the Denali Visitor Center.

Winter: Go skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, visit the Murie Science and Learning Center, and take a scenic flight tour of the park.

Planning an unforgettable fly fishing trip to Denali National Park? Here is a top 10 list of essential gear that you should bring:
1. High-quality waders to keep you dry and warm.
2. A lightweight, breathable fishing shirt.
3. A good quality pair of polarized sunglasses to help you spot fish in the water.
4. A pair of wading boots to keep your feet safe and secure.
5. A wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the sun.
6. A good quality fly fishing rod and reel.
7. A selection of different sized flies to match the conditions.
8. A reliable net to help you land bigger fish.
9. A waterproof tackle box to store your gear.
10. A First Aid kit in case of any mishaps.

GET HERE

PLAN YOUR VISIT

1. Hike to a glacier - Experience the spectacular beauty of Denali National Park by taking a hike to one of its glaciers.
2. Watch wildlife - You'll have the chance to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat, including caribou, moose, bears, and wolves.
3. Take a bus tour - Hop on a bus tour to explore the park's vast terrain and view the incredible scenery.
4. Camp in the wilderness - Enjoy the great outdoors and spend a night camping in the wilderness.
5. Visit the Visitor Center - Learn more about Denali National Park at the Visitor Center, which offers educational programs and exhibits.
6. Go fishing - Cast a line and try your luck at some of the best fishing spots in the area.
7. Go rafting - Take a white water rafting trip down the Nenana River for an adventure you won't soon forget.
8. Go dog sledding - Enjoy a unique experience by taking a dog sledding tour through the park.
9. Take a scenic drive - Take a scenic drive on the Denali Park Road for some stunning views of the park.
10. Attend a ranger program - Take part in a ranger-led

Denali National Park is home to some of the most spectacular camping sites in the United States. Here are the top 10 campsites you should visit when visiting Denali National Park:

1. Teklanika River Campground,

2. Sanctuary River Campground,

3. Igloo Creek Campground,

4. Riley Creek Campground,

5. Wonder Lake Campground,

6. Sanctuary River Wilderness Campground,

7. Savage River Campground,

8. Stony Creek Campground,

9. Toklat River Campground

10. Wonder Lake Wilderness Campground.

Each of these campsites offer breathtaking views, plenty of activities, and a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Denali area.

FIND A CAMPSITE

# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Denali National Park and Preserve is one of the most visited parks in the United States. According to statistics, the park receives an average of 600,000 visitors each year. In 2020, the park saw a record-breaking 1.2 million visitors. July is the most popular month for visitors to come to the park, with an average of 80,000 visitors each month. The park also sees a large influx of visitors during the summer months, with an average of 40,000-50,000 visitors each month from June to September. The winter months of December and January are the least popular times to visit, with an average of only 8,000 visitors. No matter when you visit, Denali National Park has something for everyone to enjoy.