Denali National Park
Denali National Park is a vast wilderness area in Alaska, covering over six million acres. The park is home to Denali, the highest peak in North America, standing at 20,320 feet. Visitors often come for the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, but the experience is about more than just the views.
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The park's remoteness means that much of it is only accessible by foot or dog sled in winter. The first 15 miles of the park road allow vehicle access, but many opt for park buses to explore deeper into the wilderness. Camping and backpacking are popular for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.
Highlights
Routes through here
Every route opens in the planner as your own copy: change any stop, any night.
Sightseeing
Things to do
Local food and drinks
Local traditions
Do's and don'ts
Practical
At a glance
- Established
- 1917
- Accessibility
- Some areas are wheelchair accessible, but many trails are not.
- Price level
- Mid-range
Things to know
History
Established in 1917 as Mount McKinley National Park, it was renamed Denali National Park in 1980. The park was expanded significantly, increasing its size by four million acres to protect the wildlife and natural beauty of the area.
The park's history is intertwined with the indigenous peoples of Alaska, who have lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years. The name 'Denali' means 'the high one' in the native Koyukon language, reflecting the mountain's significance to local cultures.
Photo: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons