About Denali
Denali is six million acres of wild land, bisected by one ribbon of road. Travelers along it see the relatively low-elevation taiga forest give way to high alpine tundra and snowy mountains, culminating in North America's tallest peak, 20,310' Mount McKinley. Wild animals large and small roam un-fenced lands, living as they have for ages.
Solitude, tranquility and wilderness await.
Things to do: Arts and Culture · Astronomy · Stargazing · Biking · Camping · Backcountry Camping · Car or Front Country Camping · Group Camping · RV Camping · Climbing · Mountain Climbing · Dog Sledding · Fishing · Food
Popular trails
Curated routes with approximate round-trip distance. In the app, tap one to log it.
- Mount Healy Overlook Trail4.7 mi
- Triple Lakes Trail8.9 mi
- Horseshoe Lake Trail3.0 mi
- Rock Creek Trail2.0 mi
- Savage Alpine Trail7.9 mi
Camping
Approximately 330 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (June – August).
Best time to visit
Peak season: June – August. Access is seasonal — confirm opening and closing dates on NPS.gov before you go.
Summer is typically cool and wet, with highs typically in the upper 50s to low 60s, and lows in the 40s. On occasion, summer highs reach the low 80s, though this is rare. Snow can fall any month of the year, so be prepared for chilly weather even in summer. Fall colors emerge on the alpine tundra in August and in the low valleys in early September.
Winter generally starts in mid-September, with temps often getting down to -40 by January. Spring is a short season in April / May, with highs above freezing.
Entrance fees
- Entrance - Per Person — Denali charges an entrance fee year-round. Youth age 15 or younger are free. For people age 16 or older, the $15 entrance fee provides a 7-day entrance permit. Be prepared to show your receipt or pass (digital or physical) if requested by park staff.$15
Annual Entrance - Park: $45. An America the Beautiful pass ($80/yr) covers every national park.
Getting there
Nearest city: Fairbanks, AK. Park center: 63.330°, -150.500°.
" Fairbanks is about 2 hours north, while Anchorage is 5 hours south of the Denali entrance. You can also reach Denali from either city via the Alaska Railroad, which is operated by the State of Alaska.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Denali National Park?
Entrance - Per Person: $15.
When is the best time to visit Denali?
Peak season is June – August. Access is seasonal; check NPS.gov for opening dates. Summer is typically cool and wet, with highs typically in the upper 50s to low 60s, and lows in the 40s. On occasion, summer highs reach the low 80s, though this is rare. Snow can fall any month of the year, so be prepared for chilly weather even in summer. Fall colors emerge on the alpine tundra in August and in the low valleys in early September.
Can you camp in Denali National Park?
Yes — about 330 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reserve ahead in peak season.
What is the closest city to Denali National Park?
Fairbanks, AK is the nearest major city. " Fairbanks is about 2 hours north, while Anchorage is 5 hours south of the Denali entrance. You can also reach Denali from either city via the Alaska Railroad, which is operated by the State of Alaska.
What are the best hikes in Denali?
Popular trails include Mount Healy Overlook Trail (4.7 mi), Triple Lakes Trail (8.9 mi), Horseshoe Lake Trail (3.0 mi), Rock Creek Trail (2.0 mi). The park has roughly 39 named trails.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.