Denali National Park is a beautiful national park of the United States located in the state of Alaska. The park is surrounded by wilderness, rugged hills, lots of hiking opportunities, beautiful landscapes, and tons of wildlife. This is the only park in North America where you will find abundant and diverse wildlife viewing.
What to see/Points of Interest :
The northern region of the park is most popular among visitors. There is one 92-mile road that is the only access to this vast 6 million acre Denali National Park. During summer, people can drive their own vehicle up to Savage River at Mile 15. Beyond that point, it is restricted to bicycles, tour and shuttle buses, and hikers.
Mt. McKinley – It is the highest mountain peak in North America. It has always been a climber’s aspiration since 1913 when it was first climbed. However, it is known for its notorious weather condition making it difficult for climbers.
Hiking and Backcountry Trail – There are lots of beautiful hiking trails and backcountry trails for those who love to see nature in their own way. Get more information about trails here http://www.denali.national-park.com/
Wildlife viewing – One can get a good chance of viewing wildlife while on a bus ride on the park road. These buses are driven by a experienced driver who let you stop by the places for scenery and wildlife. Don’t forget to bring binoculars with you on this trip to amazing land. Well, hiking and backcountry trips give you a chance to see wildlife but you should be more careful.
Mt. Healy trail – This is a beautiful and well-maintained trail near the park’s main entrance. It is a popular trail for day hikers as it offers spectacular views of Nenana River Valley and ridgelines.
Wonder Lake – It is at mile 86, a beautiful lake to stop by, a favorite among photographers too. It would be a great idea to stay a few nights in the Wonder Lake campground and enjoy the nearby scenery.
Park Entrance Fee :
You can find information about the park’s time of operation, closures, fees, and other details by visiting the park website Denali National Park.
Getting there:
By Flight – Fly to Anchorage or Fairbanks. After reaching there you can take a car, bus or train to reach Denali.
By Car – Denali National Park is 240 miles north of Anchorage and 120 miles south of Fairbanks. There is only one road entrance into Denali. You have to take Alaska Highway 3.
By Train – Alaska’s railroad connects Anchorage to Fairbanks, if you take the train on this route it runs through the entrance of Denali. From there you will get buses.
Best time to visit :
The most popular time to visit Denali National Park is during the summer months. It is when the weather is warm and the wildlife is abundant. Especially in June when it changes its colors from winter browns to greens of spring and colorful wildflowers. It becomes a photographers’ wonderland during this time. So the peak season is mid-June to mid-August. Although the fall season (Sep-Oct) becomes litter cooler, it is also a good time that you may be able to view Northern Lights too.