Denali offers a range of possibilities for exploring the Alaskan wilderness. If you prefer to get off the beaten track, take a park shuttle bus and head off with your map and compass. With an area the size of Massachusetts to explore, there is plenty to discover. If you are new to walking why not check out the range of easy walks leading away from the Visitor Center?
One of the best hikes leaves from the Denali Visitor Center and follows a steep path through the forest. When the weather is clear you can expect superb views of Denali Peak. This is a short but challenging hike, with gradients reaching 25% in places.
At just under 10 miles one way, this is the longest of the marked trails leaving from the Visitor Center. Many hikers start at the southern end of the trail and hike to the Visitor Center, enjoying views over the lakes along the way. Many hotels near Denali National Park have shuttle transfers to the start of popular hiking trails, Triple Lakes Trail included.
The beauty of Denali is the flexibility to hike off trail, going where you please. Shuttle buses run up and down the main road through the Park, so just ask your driver to let you off in a spot which looks appealing. When you are ready to leave, go back to the road and flag down a shuttle bus. Rangers can give advice on areas to explore and what gear you will need.
Denali is all about the great outdoors. If you are interested in wildlife then it's easy to spend your entire vacation tracking bears or moose but if you want to dip in and out of a wider range of activities that's possible too. If you are camping or staying in one of the Denali National Park cabins then all of the outdoor adventures you can imagine are right on your doorstep.
What better way to see the park than from the air? Departing from a small air strip just south of the Park's entrance, small 6 and 8 seater planes take visitors on an unforgettable 200 mile flight around the park. Don't forget your camera.
You will need a head for heights to tackle the Denali Zipline course. Climb up to platforms in the trees, then zip across the treetops on the lines. There is over half a mile of zip lines, and the whole experience takes around three hours.
The first place most visitors stop on arriving in the park, the visitor center has films and exhibits about the park. Ranger-led walks are a great introduction to the park and leave from the center, or see a demonstration of working husky dogs and sledding.
What better place than to have some great family fun than Denali National Park? Choose to stay in one of the Denali National Park cabins and whether you are into walking, water sports or just enjoying nature the adventure begins at your doorstep. There are a range of activities to choose from in Denali which aren't available elsewhere in America.
Hop into an off-road vehicle and go on safari trying to spot Denali's 'Big Five', grizzly bears, wolves, caribou, Dall sheep and moose. Having the services of an experienced local guide can maximise your chances of tracking down these creatures in the huge open spaces of Denai.
There is always something going on at the Murie Center, home to many scientists studying the unique environment of Denali. There is a permanent exhibition area and lots of educational activities and events take place during summer months.
Denali Outdoor Center offers white water rafting throughout the year, with dry suits provided to keep everyone warm. The whole family will get involved with the paddling as you hurtle down 10 miles of thrilling white water on the Nenana River.
