Plan your visit
Plan your Denali trip
Get the facts on getting here, parking, and exploring the wilderness safely.
Denali National Park and Preserve
Mile 237 Highway 3, Denali Park, AK
GPS 63.7284, -148.8866
Open directionsGetting there
Denali is on Highway 3, connecting Anchorage and Fairbanks. The Alaska Railroad also stops right at the park entrance.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive in via Alaska Highway 3 (George Parks Highway). During summer, private vehicles can only drive the first 15 miles to Savage River. | 2 hours from Fairbanks, 5 hours from Anchorage | Only the entrance fee | In winter, only the first 3 miles are open to public vehicles due to snow. |
| Bus: Narrated tour buses and non-narrated transit buses travel beyond Mile 15; in 2026 they turn around at East Fork (Mile 43). | 4 to 12 hours depending on the chosen route | Varies by tour type and distance | Bus service is summer-only. Advance reservations are highly recommended. |
| Train: The state-owned Alaska Railroad runs directly through the park's entrance. | Varies from Anchorage or Fairbanks | The train depot is a five-minute walk from the Denali Visitor Center. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
Late May to early September is the main season. June, July, and August provide the most reliable weather and bus access.
What to bring
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Keep your distance from wildlife.
Stay 300 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other animals.
How the day runs
How to structure your time in the park.
Explore the accessible Mile 0-15 section using your own vehicle or free shuttles.
- Visitor Center
Watch the park film and grab trail maps.
- Sled Dog Kennels
Watch a free demonstration by the park's canine rangers.
- Mountain Vista
Drive to Mile 13 and hike the short loop trail.
- Savage River
Park at Mile 15 and hike the Savage Alpine Trail.
Take a transit or tour bus deep into the park to spot wildlife.
- Bus Departure
Board your pre-booked bus at the entrance depot.
- Polychrome Overlook
Stop at Mile 46 to view the colorful volcanic rocks and scan for bears.
- Eielson Visitor Center
Reach Mile 66 for clear views of Mount Denali if weather permits.
- Wonder Lake
Arrive at Mile 85. Bring heavy bug spray and a headnet here.
- Return Journey
Ride the bus back out, watching for moose, caribou, and Dall sheep.
Packing for Denali
Weather in Alaska changes rapidly. Bring layers of fleece or wool, plus a waterproof rain jacket and pants. You will also need sturdy waterproof hiking boots. Read our full Denali Packing List for more.
Buy bear spray locally upon arrival, as you cannot fly with it. Bring binoculars for wildlife and a reusable water bottle. For summer visits, a headnet and mosquito repellent are strictly necessary.
Easiest way to do it
Denali Park Nature Walk (3 Hours) w/Expert Naturalist
3 h 5.0 (417)
- Trekking poles
From$149per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Where can I eat in the park?
There are no restaurants past the park entrance. You must bring all your own food and water for bus trips.
Can I walk anywhere?
Yes. Denali is largely trail-less, and off-trail hiking is allowed. Follow Leave No Trace principles and wildlife distance rules.
Will I see Mount Denali?
The mountain creates its own weather and is often hidden by clouds. Clear days are rare but offer excellent views from Eielson or Wonder Lake.