Explore
Denali’s deep wilderness begins where private vehicles turn around. You must take a transit or tour bus to explore this unpaved section of the park.
During summer, personal cars cannot drive past the Savage River at Mile 15. The remaining 77 miles of the 92-mile Denali Park Road are unpaved and open only to official park buses.
This restricted access protects the 6-million-acre wilderness and its wildlife. Riding a bus deep into the park gives you the best chance to spot grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and caribou across the open alpine tundra.
2026 update: the road is closed at Mile 43 while the Pretty Rocks bridge is finished. Transit and tour buses go no farther than East Fork, and Eielson Visitor Center and Wonder Lake are out of reach this season. Full access is expected to return in 2027.
Mile 4630 mins (on bus)
This viewpoint features colorful volcanic rocks and deep valleys. Buses usually stop here so passengers can look out over the vast landscape. Use binoculars to scan the expansive plains far below for grizzly bears.
Mile 661-2 hours
This sustainable facility is embedded directly into the hillside. It offers excellent sightlines toward the 20,310-foot Mount Denali. Always check for current road closures, such as the Pretty Rocks landslide, before planning to travel this far.
Mile 85Half to full day via bus
This serene, boggy area is famous for reflecting Mount Denali on clear, calm days. Reaching this point requires a long bus ride that takes most of the day. Bring heavy bug spray and a headnet, as the area is known for thick mosquitoes.
