Hike the Majestic Denali

North America’s highest peak — dramatic glaciers, alpine ridges, and vast Alaskan wilderness in Denali National Park and Preserve.

Hikes & activities Typical duration Best season
10+ hiking tours 3–6 hours Jun–Sep
Denali reflected in Wonder Lake in Denali National Park, Alaska

Book curated Denali hikes with

10+ hiking tours
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4.7 (50+)

Denali: 5-Hour Guided Wilderness Hiking Tour

4–5 hours • small group • naturalist guide

from $150 per person Book Now
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4.5 (30+)

Denali: Denali National Park Walking Tour

3 hours • small group • park highlights

from $120 per person Book Now
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4.9 (20+)

Denali: Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park

3 hours • easy walk • forest & wildlife

from $130 per person Book Now
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100+ reviews on GetYourGuide

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Why visit Denali

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North America’s Highest Peak

Stand beneath Denali’s 6,190 m summit and take in sweeping views across the Alaska Range and surrounding wilderness.

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Alaskan Wildlife

Watch for grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, and golden eagles in one of North America’s most iconic wildlife habitats.

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Dramatic Alaska Landscapes

Explore tundra, boreal forest, glaciers, and mountain passes that offer unforgettable views and photo opportunities in every season.

Getting to Denali National Park

Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA
  • Most visitors base themselves near the park entrance along the Parks Highway, close to the small communities of Denali Park and Healy.
  • Drive the Parks Highway from Anchorage or Fairbanks, or arrive by train on the Alaska Railroad; allow extra time for weather and road conditions.
  • Plan hikes for the main summer season (roughly June–September), dress in layers, and be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather.
  • A park entry fee applies for Denali National Park and Preserve. Check current conditions, shuttle schedules, and any trail restrictions before you set out.

FAQ

What should I wear for hiking in Denali?

Wear sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, and waterproof outerwear. Alaskan mountain weather can change quickly, so be ready for sun, wind, rain, and colder temperatures even in summer.

Are the trails family friendly?

Yes. Shorter routes like Taiga Trail and other easy walks can be suitable for families, while longer routes such as the Savage Alpine Trail require good fitness and preparation.

Are there fees to visit Denali?

Yes. Denali National Park and Preserve charges an entrance fee, and separate climbing permits are required for summit expeditions.

When is the best time to visit?

June to September generally offers the best conditions for hiking and sightseeing. Winter visits require specialized gear, experience with extreme cold, and additional planning.

Can I photograph the mountain and wildlife?

Absolutely. Denali and the surrounding Alaska Range offer incredible photo opportunities. Keep a safe distance from wildlife and follow park guidelines when photographing animals.

Is the park accessible?

Some visitor facilities and viewpoints are accessible, but most backcountry trails are not wheelchair accessible due to rugged terrain. Check the latest accessibility information with the park service before your visit.

What wildlife might I see?

Look for grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, wolves, golden eagles, and many smaller species adapted to the subarctic environment. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.

About Denali & the Alaska Range

Denali, North America’s highest peak at 6,190 meters, towers above the Alaska Range and anchors one of the continent’s great wilderness areas. Its name means “The High One” in the Koyukon Athabascan language, reflecting its cultural and spiritual importance to Alaska Native peoples.

The mountain and surrounding park are home to grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, and golden eagles. Glaciers and ice fields carve dramatic valleys, while the surrounding tundra and boreal forest offer a mosaic of ecosystems to explore on foot.

Denali National Park and Preserve showcases some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery and natural heritage, from roadside viewpoints and day hikes to remote backcountry adventures.

Hiker on a trail in Denali National Park with Denali in the distance

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