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Hike the Majestic Denali

Conquer North America's highest peak - a legendary mountain with dramatic glaciers, pristine wilderness, and breathtaking views across the Alaska Range

Elevation

6,190 m

Location

Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

Denali from Wonder Lake, Alaska

Denali Hiking Routes & Experiences

Hike the West Buttress Route to Denali Summit

Denali: 5-Hour Guided Wilderness Hiking Tour

Hike with an experienced naturalist on a small group tour in the Denali area. As you walk, learn about the tundra, taiga, and boreal forest of Denali from your local guide.

4–5 Hours Live tour guide Summit views
$160
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Savage Alpine Trail

Denali: Denali National Park Walking Tour

Walk with an experienced local naturalist and witness the splendor of the Denali National Park.

3 hours Small group Scenic views
$128
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Taiga Trail Walk

Denali: Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park

Take a relaxing walk through the beautiful boreal forest of Denali with an expert naturalist guide. Learn about the flora and fauna that make this place home, and about the geologic forces at play.

3 hours Easy walk Forest views
$139
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About Denali & the Alaska Range

Denali, North America's highest peak at 6,190 meters, stands as a sentinel over the Alaska Range. Its name means "The High One" in the native Koyukon Athabascan language, perfectly describing its towering presence above the surrounding landscape.

The mountain is home to grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and golden eagles. The dramatic glaciers and ice fields create a stunning alpine environment, while the surrounding tundra and boreal forest offer diverse ecosystems for visitors to explore.

Denali is the centerpiece of Denali National Park and Preserve, showcasing some of Alaska's most spectacular wilderness and natural heritage.

Explore Mountain Features
Hiking in Denali National Park near Denali

Why Visit Denali?

North America's Highest Peak

Stand in the shadow of the continent's tallest mountain and enjoy panoramic views across the Alaska Range and beyond.

Alaskan Wildlife

Spot grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, and golden eagles in this pristine wilderness environment.

Dramatic Landscapes

Experience the raw beauty of the Alaska Range with glaciers, tundra, and the iconic Denali massif.

Photographer's Paradise

Capture stunning Alaskan scenery, changing weather patterns, and the mountain's ever-changing moods.

The Story of Denali

Denali has been a sacred landmark for thousands of years, with deep cultural significance for Alaska Native peoples including the Koyukon Athabascans. The mountain holds spiritual importance and features prominently in indigenous stories and traditions.

The first recorded ascent was in 1913 by Hudson Stuck, Harry Karstens, Walter Harper, and Robert Tatum. The mountain was officially named Mount McKinley in 1896 but was renamed Denali in 2015 to honor its original native name and cultural significance.

Now a popular destination for mountaineers and wilderness enthusiasts from around the world, Denali continues to inspire with its wild beauty and challenging terrain, embodying the spirit of Alaskan adventure.

Learn more about Denali's history

Mountain Features & Highlights

Denali Summit Ridge

Summit Ridge

The exposed summit ridge offers breathtaking views across the Alaska Range, with the remains of old expedition camps and emergency shelters providing historical interest.

Denali Glaciers

Massive Glaciers

Denali's glaciers, including the Kahiltna and Ruth Glaciers, offer world-class mountaineering routes and spectacular views of the mountain's most impressive ice features.

Polychrome Pass

Polychrome Pass

This colorful mountain pass provides stunning views of Denali and the Alaska Range, offering a dramatic backdrop for photography and wildlife viewing in the park.

Grizzly Bear in Denali

Alaskan Wildlife

Watch for grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, and golden eagles in their natural habitat - an integral part of the Denali experience.

Planning Your Denali Adventure

Hikers on Denali Trail

Prepare for your journey with these essential tips:

  • Check the weather – Conditions can change rapidly. Only attempt the summit in good weather with clear visibility.
  • Start early – Allow plenty of time for your adventure, especially during shorter daylight hours in shoulder seasons.
  • Be prepared – Carry proper clothing, food, water, and navigation equipment. The wilderness can be dangerous in poor conditions.
  • Know your limits – The Savage Alpine Trail is challenging but accessible. Summit attempts require mountaineering experience.
  • Respect the environment – Stay on marked paths and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect this fragile wilderness.
  • Explore more – Discover the surrounding tundra, glaciers, and the rich history of Denali National Park beyond the main routes.

Find Denali & Denali National Park

Address: Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA

Coordinates: 63.0692°N, 151.0070°W

Located in central Alaska, accessible by car via the Parks Highway or by train. The park entrance is near the town of Healy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wear sturdy boots, layered clothing, and waterproof gear. Alaskan weather is unpredictable and can change rapidly.

Taiga Trail and other short walks are suitable for families. The Savage Alpine Trail is challenging and requires good fitness. The summit is for experienced mountaineers only.

There is an entrance fee for Denali National Park. Climbing permits are required for summit attempts and have additional fees.

Absolutely. Denali offers spectacular photo opportunities. Please stay on marked paths and respect the wilderness environment.

June to September offers the best conditions. Winter visits require special preparation and experience with cold weather.

Some areas of the park have accessible facilities, but most trails are not wheelchair accessible due to the rugged terrain.

Look for grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, wolves, golden eagles, and many other species adapted to the Alaskan wilderness.