DenaliNational Park

Choose Your Adventure

Do you already know what bus trip you want? Head over to our concessionaire's website. They manage most of the buses in the park (both narrated and non-narrated types), and you'll reserve your tickets through them. Otherwise, read the rest of this page to decide which bus is for you.

Know Before You Come

Due to the Pretty Rocks landslide , the road is currently closed to all traffic at Mile 43. There is only one road in Denali. Private vehicles can drive a small part of it, but most of the road is open only to bus traffic. Bus trips are available only in summer (mid-May through mid-September). All bus trips are operated by a private company with a contract to do so—not by the National Park Service. Advance reservations for bus trips aren't always necessary, but are strongly encouraged if you are only visiting for a short time (less than 2 full days).

Due to the Pretty Rocks landslide , the road is currently closed to all traffic at Mile 43.

There is only one road in Denali. Private vehicles can drive a small part of it, but most of the road is open only to bus traffic.

Bus trips are available only in summer (mid-May through mid-September). All bus trips are operated by a private company with a contract to do so—not by the National Park Service.

Advance reservations for bus trips aren't always necessary, but are strongly encouraged if you are only visiting for a short time (less than 2 full days).

An Introduction to Denali

The Denali Park Road parallels the Alaska Range and travels through low valleys and high mountain passes. It is the only road in the park. Along its route, beautiful landscapes can be seen at every turn, and there are many opportunities to view Mount McKinley—if the normally cloudy skies permit. Wildlife can often be seen, too, though sightings are not guaranteed—they are, after all, wild animals roaming an unfenced land.

During summer, roughly late May through early September, private vehicles may drive the first fifteen miles of this road, to a place called Savage River. The road to Savage River is paved, and features numerous pull-outs for folks to stop and snap some scenic photos. "The Mountain" can be seen as early as Mile 9, if the day isn't too overcast, and animals of all sorts can sometimes be seen on this stretch of road—although chances to see wildlife increase greatly with a bus trip farther down the Park Road.

Types of Bus Trips: Tour vs. Transit

You should understand the nature of bus trips in Denali before booking anything.

There are two main types of buses in Denali—narrated trips ( tour buses) and non-narrated trips ( transit buses). In addition, a few free buses travel routes around the park entrance, connecting visitor centers and points of interest in the same area where visitors may drive their own vehicles.

Non-narrated transit buses Cheaper than tour buses, and more flexible in that you may disembark and re-board anywhere along the restricted portion of the road, these are called transit buses. Transit bus drivers aim to help you experience the park on your own terms. These buses stop for wildlife viewing, restroom stops and beautiful scenery, just like tour buses. Read more about non-narrated transit bus options

Narrated tour buses Your driver is your narrator on the tour buses, and they will provide a detailed and captivating program to accompany your journey along the Denali Park Road. Tour buses make the same restroom stops as the non-narrated buses, and of course will pause for views of wildlife and scenery. All tours offer either a snack or full lunch. Read more about narrated tour bus options

Free buses Three types of free buses operate on the publicly-driveable portion of the Denali Park Road. These enable visitors without vehicles, or those who wish to leave their vehicle behind, to travel between various facilities, trails, campgrounds and day-use areas. All of these are free, and none require reservations. Learn more about free buses

Which Bus Do I Choose?

Child Restraint Information

Alaska State Law requires children to be in a car or booster seat as follows:

Children younger than 12 months of age or less than 20 pounds (9 kilograms) must be in a rear facing infant seat.

Children older than 12 months and younger than 4 years, and at least 20 pounds (9 kilograms), must be in a child restraint.

Children aged 4 through 7 years who are less than 57 inches (1.4 meters) tall or less than 65 pounds (30 kilograms) must be in a booster seat. Booster seats are no longer required for children of this age once they reach 57 inches (1.4 meters) tall or weigh 65+ pounds (30 kilograms).

Parents are responsible for providing the appropriate car seat.

Day hiking or backpacking may require extra logistical planning if your children require a car seat.

Beyond the Savage River Check Station at mile 15 of the Park Road, you'll need to be on a bus, bicycle, or on foot. Prior to the 1972 completion of the George Parks Highway (Alaska Route 3), which is the main travel artery into interior Alaska, visitation to Denali National Park and Preserve was fairly low. Anticipation of major increases in traffic resulting from a direct route to the park prompted park officials to implement a mass transit system beyond Mile 15 on the Denali Park Road. To provide for visitor access and enjoyment of the world class resources, our concessioner, Doyon/ARAMARK Joint Venture , offers several types of bus services along the park road.

Extending 92 miles from the park entrance to its terminus in the old mining community of Kantishna, this mostly-gravel road traverses boreal forests and sub-arctic tundra. The eastern half of the road (from Mile 0–43) crosses rolling mountainsides and scenic river valleys as it meanders through spectacular vistas and prime wildlife viewing areas. By riding a bus, you help to reduce traffic congestion and to protect the natural resources of the park. Even more information on how the park road is managed, as it relates to vehicle traffic, can be found in the Denali Park Road Vehicle Management Plan .

Beyond Buses: Recommended Itineraries

Planning a trip to Denali can be a big undertaking! Just getting to the park can take quite a while, and it is distinctly different from many national parks, so even seasoned park travelers can be unsure how to plan their trip.

Use the table below to start thinking about what might work well for you, given the amount of time you'll be here. There are plenty of other things to do than what is listed below - this is just a starting point.

Other Trip Planning Info

NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS

Denali is not closed in winter! This far north, winter is the predominant season. During this time, snow blankets the park, daylight disappears, and temperatures can plunge to a frigid -40 F (-40 C).

Even with the short days and chilly temperatures, there is still a lot to do here. Though the Denali Park Road typically closes at mile 3 for several months, there is plenty to do for those prepared for the cold and outdoor recreation or sightseeing.

Winter Visitor Center

At mile 1.3 on the park road is the Murie Science and Learning Center (MSLC), which acts as Denali's winter visitor center. The winter season runs from late September until early May annually.

The Winter Visitor Center is the place to begin your winter visit to Denali. Learn about the park by watching park films and browsing a small display area. Borrow snowshoes to take on the trails or pick up a Junior Ranger Activity Book. Get brochures and trail maps and access several trails fom here. Rangers are available to answer questions and collect park entrance fees (credit card only, no cash).

Indoor Picnic Area

Next door to the MSLC is the Murie Hall, which is open daily in winter as an indoor picnic area. This facility is open to the public from late September through mid-April annually and serves as a warm place to relax, plan your next adventure, or watch park films. The indoor picnic area has restrooms and a water bottle filling station. No food is available within the park. Bring food for your trip as the closest services are in Healy, 11 miles north of the park entrance. For more information on local lodges and restaurants that are open in the winter, refer to the Denali Chamber of Commerce .

Common Winter Activities: Skiing, Biking, Snowshoeing

Cross-country skiing, winter biking and snowshoeing are peaceful and rewarding ways to explore Denali, whether for an afternoon or a multi-day trip following sled dog trails or along the Denali Park Road.

Some of Denali's summer hiking trails are also good for skiing. Please note that winter biking is only possible on the Roadside Bike Trail and the park road; other summer hiking trails cannot be biked, in summer or winter.

Telemark skiing and snowboarding involve long climbs on foot, but are possible in good snow years. If you plan to travel in areas that present avalanche hazards, please have proper training and equipment. We encourage you to travel with a partner or a group.

If you wish to take an overnight trip in the park, you'll need a backcountry permit .

You can visit the park's Sled Dog Kennels in winter, although the dogs are sometimes out on the trail. Open hours are hosted by a ranger on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 pm to 4 pm, except for major holidays.

Snow Conditions

Please be prepared for all conditions and contact the park with any questions you may have about trail conditions and winter recreation in Denali. Snow cover in Denali can range from excellent to nonexistent and temperatures can range from 40°F to -40°F in the winter.

Snowshoes and ice grippers are available to borrow from the Winter Visitor Center. For all other gear, bring your own equipment or rent it in Fairbanks or Anchorage before traveling to Denali. There are no local rental options in the Denali area in the winter.

The Leave No Trace organization published great guidelines in 2015 for enjoying untrammeled areas in winter while minimizing impacts on the underlying landscape. Learn more about Leave No Trace principles and backcountry snowsports .

Winter Highlights

Whether you're skiing, biking, snowshoeing, or just looking for a winter hike, check out a map of winter trails to plan your trip!

Winter Ranger Programs

Use our calendar to discover if any ranger-led activities will occur when you visit.

Driving into the Park in Winter

Most of the park road is closed in mid-winter. However, in fall and from February onward, visitors may drive 13 or more miles into the park.

Other Winter Activities

Winter Visit to the Sled Dog Kennels

Find out when the kennels are open and learn about the tradition of mushing in Denali.

The aurora, or northern lights, can be seen periodically in the Denali area.

Mushing and Skijoring

Visitors who own their own dogs are welcome to mush or skijor in the park.

Hardy souls will find great winter camping opportunities, with the wilderness all to themselves.

Winterfest Celebration

Every February, Denali and the surrounding community host a winter festival, celebrating Alaska's longest season.

Certain areas of the park are closed to off-road vehicles, including snowmobiles, but other areas open when snow cover is sufficient.

NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS

Road Closed at Mile 43

Due to the Pretty Rocks Landslide , the road is currently closed at Mile 43. Any destinations listed below that are past that point cannot be accessed by vehicle or bus.

NPS Photo / Emily Mesner

Where to See and Photograph Mount McKinley

Viewpoints to Which You Can Drive or Take a Free Shuttle

Viewpoints Accessed by Bus

Reflection Pond

NPS Photo / Tyler Devine

Wildlife Photography

While wildlife can be theoretically seen just about anywhere in the park, the most common wildlife viewing opportunities occur during a bus ride along the park road.

A few very general thoughts and tips for those looking for wildlife during their visit:

The longer a bus trip you choose to take, the better your odds will be of seeing wildlife. If you have the time to spend several days in Denali, taking bus trips on multiple days is a great way to maximize your chances of seeing wildlife.

The park entrance-area is thickly forested. While many species are present in this area, you may be more likely to spot animals where tree cover diminishes. Tree-line in Denali is roughly 3,000 above sea level, and the park road travels through a number of transition areas and alpine passes where lines of sight are extensive. Compare the bus options with the park map , looking for which landmark alpine passes (e.g., Sable Pass) you'll pass through.

The Wonder Lake area is fairly boggy, with many small kettle ponds and other bodies of water near the road - making it one of the better sections of the park road to look for water-loving birds.

The thrill of seeing wild animals in their natural environment provokes varying reactions from us all. Often, the excitement and happiness at this special kind of experience can make us forget our responsibility to keep ourselves, and the animals, safe.

When photographing wildlife from outside a vehicle, please follow the distance regulations listed below:

Grizzly bears Pedestrians and bicyclists: do not approach to 300 yards (meters) or less. If you are adjacent to a vehicle (i.e., within 2 yards of entering it): do not stay outside of the vehicle if the bear is 25 yards or closer to you.

Raptor nests and occupied dens (lynx, fox, wolverine, coyote, wolf, etc) Pedestrians and bicyclists: do not approach closer than 100 yards. The park will institute and post temporary closures of at least one quarter mile around known wolf dens; and appropriately-sized closures around other sensitive den/nest sites.

Other animals and active bird (non-raptor) nests Pedestrians and cyclists: Maintain a minimum distance of 25 yards.

Landscape Photography

Photo Galleries

NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS

This Page Includes:

Trails Around the Park Entrance

Trails Beyond the Park Entrance

Trail Mileages & Brief Descriptions

Tips for Hiking Off-Trail

Map of Areas Off-Limits to Hiking

Photo Galleries

There are two ways to hike in Denali—on a marked trail, or off-trail in nearly any direction you choose.

Trail hiking There are not very many marked trails in Denali, and most of the trails here are short and near the park entrance. But visitors are not limited to hiking only on the trail system. Unlike most parks that require visitors to stay on trails, Denali also provides the opportunity to explore a trail-less wilderness.

Off-trail hiking Hiking off-trail can seem intimidating at first, but it is a memorable and unique experience. The information on this page will provide you with some knowledge of where and how to begin such an adventure, but you may want to talk to a ranger upon arriving to clarify any questions or concerns you have before starting a hike.

NPS Photo / Emily Mesner

Check out information for self-guided trail hikes . These trails are all within a few miles of the Denali Visitor Center. You may wish to download or print these materials in advance, though cell / data service is available while on many of these trails, if you decide to access them while hiking.

Trails Around the Entrance of Denali

Trails in Denali are largely centered around the Denali Visitor Center. Some of these trails are utilitarian—they travel alongside the Denali Park Road and connect the visitor center with other important facilities in the entrance area of the park, such as the park sled dog kennels , Riley Creek Campground and the Denali Bus Depot . Other trails offer a departure from the immediate surroundings of the park's only road, allowing you to seek a bit of solace and quiet, while still having an obvious, established path to follow. Below is a map featuring trails in the park. Zoom in and click on the various trails to get descriptions, difficulties, and lengths. A few trails exist farther west in the park, and can be seen by scrolling in that direction. The menu in the upper-right of the map lets you change what type of base map you are using, make it full-screen, and print if you wish. A simplified, print-friendly trail map is also available.

Trails Not Near the Park Entrance

Tsenesdghaas Na' Trailhead

Located around 6 miles south of the Denali Park Road entrance. Limited day parking is available for personal vehicles.

The 1.5-mile Oxbow Loop Trail is a short loop that contours along the west bank of the Nenana River, offering views from high above the river. The trail wanders in and out of spruce forest and eventually drops down to the edge of the river. This trail provides walk-in access to a gravel bar on the Nenana River, which might be useful for rafters.

The southern portion of the Triple Lakes Trail can be accessed from this trailhead. This 9.5-mile trail is the longest trail in the park, connecting the Tsenesdghaas Na’ Trailhead near mile 231 of the George Parks Highway (Hwy 3) with the Denali Visitor Center Campus. At the southern end, the trail will pass under the highway bridge, eventually crossing some railroad tracks on the way to reach three scenic lakes. Continue north along a ridge to cross a suspension bridge and hike along Riley Creek. Plan ahead to arrange your own transportation back to your starting location.

The Nenana River Hiking Trail can be accessed from this location, but is currently being constructed, so the length and trail condition will vary.

Mountain Vista and Savage River Areas

Located at miles 13–15 on the Denali Park Road. Limited parking is available for personal vehicles; riding the free Savage River Shuttle is recommended.

The 0.6-mile Mountain Vista Trail is a short, fairly flat loop where you can view Mount McKinley on clear days. Look for the fully snow-covered mountain in the distance to the southwest.

The 2-mile Savage River Loop is a mellow walk along the river. The surface is uneven and rugged in areas, but there is no significant elevation change.

The more steep and strenuous Savage Alpine Trail is four miles long, and connects the Savage River area with the Mountain Vista area. Use the Savage River Shuttle to travel back to your starting point if you need to pick up a car, or use it to return to the park entrance if you have no vehicle; or, you can walk about two miles along the park road.

Both the Savage River Loop and the The Savage Alpine Trail are located almost entirely within designated Wilderness. Trail users must adhere to the group size limit of 12 in accordance with park regulations.

This area is not accessible in winter. Winter begins when snow falls, typically late September or early October. Learn more about the Savage River area

Eielson Visitor Center

Located at mile 66. Not currently accessible via bus.

The Tundra Loop is around a third of a mile through alpine country, very close to the visitor center. A spur trail leads an additional quarter of a mile, one-way, off the Tundra Loop.

The Thorofare Ridge Trail is a very steep hike of around 1,000 feet. The trail is a bit less than one mile one-way, up Thorofare Ridge. The views are particularly impressive on clear days!

The Gorge Creek Trail descends 600 feet to the Gorge Creek and Thorofare River bars, with access to numerous dayhiking opportunities and backcountry camping units. A creek crossing may be required if you want to hike past the end of the trail.

Located at mile 85. Not currently accessible via bus.

There is one trail in this area, called the McKinley River Bar Trail , leading from Wonder Lake Campground to the McKinley River. It is 2.5 miles one-way, with negligible elevation gain. The trail travels through spruce forest and past several small ponds, offering chance to see water fowl and terrain which is different from much of the park. It is plagued most of the summer by mosquitoes, so bring a head net. return to top of page

Note that some trails are loops, and so a round-trip time and distance is offered. Other trails are not loops by themselves, and so the time and distance numbers are for a one-way hike. Add multiple one-way trails together to estimate a larger loop (e.g., a loop combining the Rock Creek and Roadside Trails).

An additional wrinkle is that not every trailhead is at a visitor center or road. In those cases, you might need to add a bit more time (e.g., the Meadow View Trail is only a third of a mile long, but to get to either trailhead you must hike along one of a couple different trails from the visitor center). Some of the longer trails are explained in greater detail on separate pages, linked below.

You can download a print-friendly map and chart of trail info , with additional details like connecting trails, max grade and trail surface.

Note: Due to the Pretty Rocks Landslide , buses are currently traveling no further than Mile 43 of the Denali Park Road. The trails below are located past this point, and will not be accessible until 2027.

Hiking Off Trail

Denali is nearly the size of Massachusetts (or just over half as large as Switzerland), and most of the park is devoid of human-made trails. The idea of hiking in the wilderness, with no trail to follow, excites some hikers and confuses or intimidates others. However, the nature of Denali's Park Road and bus system , and the terrain itself, can make trail-less hiking more approachable than it may seem at first blush.

This is a question that only you can answer. Every person will want something slightly different out of their day hike, and the sheer size of Denali prevents any one spot from being "the best." Some people will want to hike up into steep terrain to gain big views, while others will prefer a stroll along a river. Some people don't mind pushing through thick brush for part of a hike, while others will want to avoid anything more than shrubs and small bushes.

Starting an Off-Trail Hike

A good strategy is to take an early transit bus into the park and scout the terrain from the road on your drive west. On your return back east towards the park entrance, you can ask your driver to let you off at whatever area looked most appealing.

Ending an Off-Trail Hike

After your hike, you need only return to the road and wave down any passing transit bus. You can get a copy of the latest bus schedule upon arriving in the park, or you can download a schedule to bring with you. While uncommon, the first bus or two that you try to re-board may be full, so be prepared for the possibility of waiting an hour for a ride.

In a trail-less wilderness like Denali, you will choose your own route. By avoiding terrain traps like pockets of spruce forest and alder, you can make navigation easier. Tree-line in Denali is generally around 3,000' above sea level, and much of the Park Road travels near or above that level.

Above tree-line, you will find either brushy tundra, with plants that may slow your travel but allow you to see over them, or alpine tundra, with extremely short vegetation that offers no impediment to your speed or your visibility. In many parts of the park, you will find that the Park Road stays in your view, even after several miles and several hours of hiking.

Learn more about terrain types in Denali

Equipment & Travel Tips

The list below is not exhaustive, but should help in planning your off-trail adventure.

Carry adequate food and water. There are no restaurants or amenities west of mile 3 on the Park Road.

Bring a means to treat water, such as purification tablets or a water filter.

Wear appropriate clothing. Avoid cotton and choose either quick-drying synthetic materials or wool, which insulates even when wet.

Plan for bad weather. Rain is likely (and snow is possible) in summer. A hat, gloves, rain jacket and rain pants may be necessary.

In the case of a storm, avoid high ridges and exposed areas.

Other gear, such as trekking poles, calf-high gaiters, and ankle-high boots will make your hike more comfortable.

Be prepared to self-rescue and carry a first aid kit. Travel immediately to the Park Road and flag down a ranger or bus driver if you need assistance.

Bring a plastic bag to pack out your trash, which includes toilet paper and menstrual products.

Be aware of wildlife closures and avoid hiking within them.

If your children require a child seat on the bus, keep in mind that you'll need to either carry them or safely store them before setting off on a hike. Child seats can be left in the food storage sheds at any campground . Car seats may not be left by the roadside —they often have food smells that attract animals large and small.

It is safest to hike with at least one other person and to stay in areas where visibility allows you to see animals at a great distance and avoid them when necessary. In areas of brushy or alpine tundra, you can sometimes see for miles.

However, you will likely face areas of reduced or limited visibility while day hiking. When your visibility is reduced, you should make noise, either by talking with your partner, singing, or simply shouting "Hey there!" every few minutes. The human voice is distinctive and tells wildlife that you are in the area, which helps minimize surprise encounters. Bear bells, whistles, etc., are no substitute for your voice. The first few shouts may feel silly, but with enough repetition, they will seem a natural part of hiking in Denali.

Read more about wildlife safety

NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS

Note: Ranger programs in Denali are mainly offered in the summer, from mid-May through mid-September. Check our event calendar for scheduled programs and check at the visitor center upon arrival for other talks and guided walks that may be offered during your visit.

Whether you have time for a short talk or plan to fill multiple days attending these programs, park rangers are here to help you understand, appreciate, and take care of your park.

With the exception of Discovery Hikes, all ranger hikes, sled dog demonstrations, campground programs and other talks in Denali are free and do not require you to sign up in advance. Discovery Hikes are technically free, but will likely require you to purchase a bus ticket and you must register for the hike in advance.

Ranger Programs

Sled Dog Demonstrations

Learn about the historic and modern uses of Alaskan huskies in Denali.

Join a ranger to explore the boreal forest on a walk from the Denali Visitor Center.

Join a ranger at a campground for short, informative talks on all kinds of Denali-related topics.

Off-Trail Discovery Hikes

If you will be here for several days, consider signing up at the visitor center for an off-trail ranger hike.

Please contact us if you have questions about accommodations for ranger programs that are not answered by this accessibility information.

American Sign Language

Other Naturalist and Education Programs

Our partner non-profit association, Alaska Geographic, also offers a variety of programs for visitors. There is a fee and registration is required for Field Courses. The Speaker Series is free and no registration is required. In addition to the programs highlighted below, Alaska Geographic offers other day programs including morning bird walks and Nature Labs.

Multi-Day Field Courses

These active learning vacations immerse participants in intensive wilderness experiences led by experts in a variety of different fields.

Summer Speaker Series

Approximately once a week throughout the summer, speakers will lecture and answer questions on their scientific research in Denali.

Ranger Program Schedules

As you look through the calendar below, keep the following notes in mind:

Getting to the kennels for a sled dog demonstration involves arriving at the Denali Visitor Center bus stop 40 minutes before the demo begins . There is no parking available at the kennels, so park at the visitor center (if you have a car) and ride a free bus to the demonstration. Alternatively, you can walk on the Roadside Hiking Trail (2 miles, ~1 hour) from the visitor center to the kennels.

Most ranger-led programs occur daily from mid-May through September. Some weekend ranger programs are available in fall, winter, and spring, and special programs or events may occur at any time.

Additional programs may be offered each day. Look for fliers or inquire at the Denali Visitor Center for ranger chats, additional guided walks, and special activities.

NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS

Take Pictures for Science

Download the free iNaturalist app through the App Store or Google Play.

Make sure your location services are enabled for iNaturalist, so that it can identify photo locations. For iPhones, go to: Settings > Privacy > Location Services For Androids, go to: Settings > Location > App permission

For iPhones, go to: Settings > Privacy > Location Services

For Androids, go to: Settings > Location > App permission

Set your phone to airplane mode to increase battery life while you're in remote parts of the park.

While traveling in the park – on the bus, day hikes, or overnight backpacking trips, look for: Collared pikas Dall sheep Hoary marmots Arctic ground squirrels

Arctic ground squirrels

If you see any of these species:

Open the iNaturalist app and click Observe.

Press the green circle at the bottom to take a photo.

Once you have the photo, click Next.

Add the species name under What did you see? Then click Share. It will save but will not upload yet.

Once you are in an area with internet, open iNaturalist and click Upload.

Project Background

Meet the Wildlife

Loading results...

Jedediah Brodie

Identifying Scat

Arctic Ground Squirrel Scat

Government of Yukon

Dall Sheep Scat

Snowshoe Hare Scat

NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS

How to Get a Backcountry Permit

Backcountry permits are free and required for overnight trips in the Denali backcountry. From mid-May to late September, they are issued in person at the Backcountry Information Center on the Denali Bus Depot campus, no more than one day prior to the start of the trip. You will need a backcountry permit prior to acquiring Camper Bus tickets at the Denali Bus Depot. Plan for your group to spend at least an hour at the Backcountry Information Center to complete the permit process.

In the fall, winter, and spring, backcountry permits are available at the visitor center.

All members of the backpacking party must attend a backcountry orientation before the permit is issued. The backcountry video series may be viewed ahead of time, otherwise Chapters 3–5 will be included in your backcountry orientation when your party arrives to obtain the backcountry permit. Bear Resistant Food Containers are required from April 15 – September 30. You may bring your own approved BRFC or check one out from the NPS. Your permit will specify the backcountry unit in which you must camp for each night of your trip. A map of Denali’s backcountry units and their current availability may be found in the Backcountry Unit Guide .

Courtesy Alaska Geographic

Wilderness—A Land Without Trails

Begin Planning Your Backpacking Adventure

A backpacking trip in Denali is unlike backpacking in most other national parks. Denali is about the size of Vermont, with only a handful of trails—most of which are near the entrance of the park for day-hiking , rather than overnight backpacking. Backpacking permits are issued only in person, no more than a day before you begin your backcountry adventure—so use the information on this site as a guide, to familiarize yourself with the permit process and the landscape of Denali, but be ready to hash out the details of your itinerary only once you're in the park, speaking to one of our backcountry rangers.

Trip Planning Part 1: Research Before You Travel

Below is a detailed look at what you should think about before traveling to the park for a backpacking adventure.

Answering these questions will make it much faster and easier to get your permit once you're here. Some of these are simple to answer, while others will take some time for you to fully understand and/or answer.

What time of year are you coming?

Denali has three seasons:

Main season (May 20 – mid-September) This is the busiest time of year for backpackers. Backpackers must understand the Denali backcountry unit system (see below). Almost all backpacking trips begin with a bus ride along the Denali Park Road.

Winter (October 1 – April 15) The least busy time of the year, but this season is not for novice campers. Winter camping in Denali requires you to be prepared for extreme weather conditions.

Shoulder (a few weeks each spring and fall) This season is more complicated, and refers to the time before bus service begins on May 20 each year, and after buses stop running in mid-September. Conditions can vary hugely, so expect snow and rain (though you might only see sunshine!) In ideal conditions, backpackers can drive up to 30 miles into the park before starting their trip; however, conditions are often not ideal, so be flexible on where you backpack if you come in spring or fall. Summer rules are still in effect from April 15 to September 30, such as the requirement that you store food in a bear resistant food container. Please note, the visitor center is open for shorter hours in fall, winter, and spring.

Do you understand Denali's backcountry unit system?

(Note: Winter and shoulder-season visitors do not need to worry about the unit system)

In summer, there are many people wishing to backpack in the park. To prevent any single area from becoming over-crowded, the entire park is divided into 87 sections, or units, and only a certain number of people can camp in a given unit each night.

Our backcountry unit guide provides a map, current backcountry unit availability, and terrain details to help you play your trip. You won't select your unit(s) until you arrive and speak with a ranger, but the more you learn about the units before you come, the faster you can get your permit. Some of the guiding questions lower on this page make unit suggestions based on your experiences, skill, and what kind of trip you want to do.

How long is your trip?

The duration of your trip influences where you can (and where you should) camp in Denali. Keep in mind how long it takes to get to the park from Anchorage (5 hours by car, 8 hours by train) or Fairbanks (2 hours by car, 4 hours by train), too.

It is often smart to plan on at least one day in the entrance-area of Denali before and after your backpacking trip, particularly if you are traveling to / from Anchorage. Riley Creek Campground is a convenient place to camp your first and last night in the Denali area.

Most visitors plan on one, two or three nights backpacking. Long trips are possible (up to 30 nights!), either as one epic adventure or as a series of short routes, broken up by bus trips or stays in other campgrounds in the park.

Plan your bus ride into the park

(Note: Winter and shoulder season visitors won't have access to buses; buses only operate from May 20 to mid-September each year)

Nearly every summer backpacking trip begins with a bus ride on the only road in the park. Give thought to how long a bus ride you wish to experience—that will influence which backcountry units you should think about visiting.

If you are short on time, or do not wish to spend long on the bus, focus on areas within the first 15 miles of the park road (units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 24, 25, 26, and 27). These units are accessible by the Savage River Shuttle , which is a free bus ride.

Learn more about buses in Denali:

Bus prices vary from year to year, but you just need to buy one ticket for your trip in and out of the park. You cannot buy your ticket in advance—only when you arrive and have acquired your backpacking permit.

Bus schedules vary a little throughout the summer. When you download the schedule, you'll see that camper buses are lumped in with the broader non-narrated transit bus schedule; look for rows with a little tent icon to determine which buses are official campers rather than day-tripping transit buses. (Note: During the early and late parts of the summer, where no buses have a tent icon, any shuttle bus may be used by backpackers).

Read an overview of the Denali bus system if you're having trouble understanding how it all works.

What type of trip do you want?

Consider the type of backpacking trip you want. For example:

Base-camping This involves setting up camp in one backcountry unit for multiple nights. You can then day-hike in any backcountry unit, so long as you return back to your base each night to sleep. This is a great way to thoroughly explore a specific area of the park (and to get some time hiking without all of your camping gear on your back!).

Unit loop This type of trip involves hiking from unit to unit, usually spending just one night in each area. Most backcountry units south of the Denali Park Road have a river or creek in the middle of the unit, and mountains or hills forming their boundaries; thus, most loop trips involve river crossings and hiking in some steep terrain as you pass from one unit to another. Some loop trips might involve hiking across the park road, from a unit south of the road to a unit north of it.

Busing between units The bus ticket you buy to start your trip allows you to make free use of the bus system during your stay in the park. This means you can camp one night in a unit, hike to the park road in the morning, and ride the bus to any other unit. The advantage here is that you can see far more of the park during your trip. This type of trip is the most flexible, too, meaning you have the highest likelihood of getting the backpacking permit you desire.

Caching food and supplies Anyone camping more than two or three nights will likely want to cache food and/or supplies in the park, to avoid carrying it all at once. Items may only be cached in the food lockers at any campground, as well as Eielson Visitor Center and the Toklat Rest stop. These are the only places you can store food or personal belongings. Please label your items with your name and the date you intend to retrieve them. You can also leave items unneeded for your trip in lockers at the Denali Bus Depot .

Bear Resistant Food Container (BRFC) Summer backpackers must use a bear resistant food container . We loan them for free, though you can check out the list of approved BRFCs to see if your personal canister may be used here.

The bus system As mentioned above, your bus ticket lets you make free use of the bus system in the park during your backpacking trip, regardless of whether you are here for two nights or twenty nights. However , you may not return to the park entrance area (defined as the first 15 miles of the Denali Park Road, i.e. east of Savage River) until you are finished with your backpacking trip. If you return to the park entrance and wish to go back into the wilderness of the park, you will have to buy a new bus ticket.

Consider your skill level

Very few trails exist in the Denali backcountry. To have a comfortable experience, honestly assess the following questions.

Can you read a topographic map?

Can you orient yourself to a map with a compass? (Heavy clouds often make terrain difficult to see at any kind of distance, necessitating compass use)

Have you hiked off-trail before?

Have you successfully camped in difficult weather? (Snow can fall any month of the year in Denali, particularly at high elevations. Wind is a common problem, and gusts of 60 mph or more can occur on occasion.)

Given your experience, consider some general unit recommendations:

Beginner Unit 1 (which features the Triple Lakes Trail), Units 6-13, 18 and 31-34 (which feature open gravel areas along rivers, making navigation easier). In any unit, use rivers or creeks as your guide, hiking into and out of the backcountry along the same route. Expect to get wet feet, however, as water crossings will be likely.

Intermediate Consider almost any unit for a two or three night trip, except the far western areas and the units around Mount McKinley and Mount Foraker. Be prepared for brush and river crossings, as well as difficult navigation in wide open areas, if clouds prevent you from seeing your surroundings.

Expert Consider the remote, little-seen western parts of the park. Rivers are much bigger west of Eielson Visitor Center, so prepare for significant water crossings. Any unit except the Mount McKinley/Mount Foraker area could be possible.

Mountaineering The part of the Alaska Range in Denali features numerous glaciated peaks. Common trips run from 4 to 10 days, and some mountaineers fly into the park to begin their expeditions. Climbing permits are required for Mount McKinley and Mount Foraker. Learn more about backcountry mountaineering .

Think about the types of landscapes and terrain you want to encounter (or avoid!)

As a park largely devoid of trails, give careful thought to what kinds of landscapes or terrain you wish to experience. Focus your pre-trip research on units that sound appealing. (Note: These suggestions refer to the various backcountry unit numbers; check out the backcountry unit map to locate these areas).

Best-bets for beginners If this is your first off-trail backpacking trip, consider areas like Unit 1 (features a trail), Units 9–13, 18, 34 and 42.

Easy-to-navigate valleys and graveled river bars Generally units south of the park road meet this criteria, especially Units 6–13 (except 11, which is mostly rolling tundra hills). By heading south from the road, you're hiking toward the Alaska Range. These units may have river crossings, but navigation is comparatively simple and travel can be very fast.

Ridges with potential for amazing views Usually north of the park road, such as Units 25–30, 33–34, and the Kantishna region. Often there is brush at lower elevations, making navigation more difficult and travel much slower, but persevere through the brush, gain elevation, and look south for great views of the Alaska Range.

Super remote areas Units 21, 38–40, 44, and 87. These are not areas beginners should visit.

Valley glaciers Units 23, 44 and 87.

Accessible but little-used areas Units 2–3 are a short bus ride (or walk!) from the visitor center. Despite their proximity to the busy park entrance, very few people use these units. Expect some brush. These are a great choice for adventurers who want to minimize their time on the bus, and/or see places seldom visited.

Generalizations about wildlife Any animal can be found almost anywhere, but some generalizations can be made. Moose are most often seen near the park entrance / Headquarters area (eastern end of the park road), as well as near Wonder Lake (far western end of the park road). Grizzly bears and caribou are more common along the middle-third of the park road (e.g., Teklanika River to Eielson Visitor Center). Dall sheep spend time in high, rocky areas, particularly north of the park road.

Tie it all together

Before you visit the park, take time again to review the backcountry unit map , focusing on units that are of interest to you.

Come up with three or four possible routes. Remember that there is a quota system, with permits only issued in-person. Your first choice might be full when you arrive, but if you have a plan of what you generally want out of your trip, we can help you plan a great itinerary based on (a) your desires and (b) which backcountry units are available.

Consider writing down your answers to all of the above questions. This can help our rangers work with you to build a great trip itinerary, without taking up too much of your limited time in the ranger office!

Trip Planning Part 2: Pack for Your Trip (Gear and Supplies)

This section explains not just what you should bring backpacking, but how you can get it here (e.g., transporting stove fuel can be tricky).

Denali weather can change quickly. The most important food and supplies to consider:

High calorie food—Not only are you hiking, but it's often cold and rainy. That means your body will need more calories than usual.

Bug spray—Mosquitoes are typically a nuisance from May to September.

Tent—We strongly discourage bivy sacks. It's often raining, and bears are more likely to investigate bivvies than tents.

Gaiters—Stream crossings are common. Even if your gaiters aren't water-proof, they'll still help keep debris and rocks out of your boots. Many rivers in Denali are glacially-fed, and they carry a surprising amount of grit and rocks in their murky, fast water.

Proper layers—Plan on temps ranging from as warm as 75 F to as cold as 20 F, possibly in the same day!

Bear spray—Note that this cannot be carried on planes or trains, nor can you drive through Canada with it. Plan on buying it in Alaska.

Check out a more detailed gear list

Buying supplies in Alaska

Just outside of the park, several general stores and camping stores can be found. Note, however, that they sometimes sell out of certain supplies during the summer. Consider buying your most important items, such as stove fuel, in Anchorage or Fairbanks, before traveling to Denali.

Within the park, Riley Creek Mercantile is the only general store. You can buy backpacking food, but not fuel for a backcountry stove (though they do sell fuel for larger stoves, such as Coleman two-burners). They also sell bear spray here, though they occasionally sell out.

Bring a Bear Resistant Food Container (BRFC)

These hard plastic cylinders are mandatory for summer backpackers. You may bring your own approved BRFC or check one out from the NPS while getting your backcountry permit.

Read more about approved bear resistant food containers.

Trip Planning Part 3: What to Do Once You're in the Park

Get your permit at the Backcountry Information Center

As mentioned above, all backpackers need a free permit from the Backcountry Information Center. Plan for the permitting process to take at least an hour. If you're visiting in fall, winter, or spring (mid-September to mid-May), you'll get your permit at the Winter Visitor Center.

You may acquire your permit one day before or the day of your trip into the park.

Getting your backpacking permit requires a few steps:

Watch the summer backcountry safety videos Once per summer, prior to receiving a permit. As the trip leader, please coordinate with your party to be sure everyone has watched these videos online prior to arriving at the park: Chapter 3: Hiking Chapter 4: Camping Chapter 5: Animal Safety Otherwise, they are available to watch at the Backcountry Information Center.

Chapter 3: Hiking

Chapter 4: Camping

Chapter 5: Animal Safety

Talk with a ranger, plan your backpacking itinerary At any point while we're open, check which units are available by looking at a whiteboard at the Backcountry Desk. This lets you check if any trip ideas you formulated ahead of time will be possible. If your first-choice units aren't available, think about what other options may work for you, given your timing, the type of trip you seek and what terrain you do or do not want to encounter. Rangers are available to talk through possibilities with you. Finish filling out your worksheet by writing in which unit(s) you’ll camp in and give the worksheet to a ranger. We’ll then talk about a few of the most important safety considerations and print your backpacking permit. The safety talk will last about 10 minutes.

If needed, buy maps and bus tickets Once you have your permit and know where you're going, you can buy the relevant topographical (topo) maps. You are not required to buy a map, but we strongly recommend you do so. We also recommend marking wildlife closures and backcountry unit boundaries on your maps—it will be your responsibility to avoid closures and camp in the proper unit. Most backpacking trips involve a bus trip into the park with a certain type of bus, called a camper bus . Only backpackers and campground-users can buy tickets for camper buses.

Begin adventuring

At this point, you have your backpacking permit and (if needed) your bus ticket.

If you came to Denali with a car, make sure you ask a ranger where you may park it (overnight parking may change year to year). There is no parking fee. Arrive at the Denali Bus Depot at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure, to ensure plenty of time to load your backpack and any other gear.

After your backpacking trip, no matter how many days it lasted, you may use any shuttle bus to exit the park. Simply wait anywhere along the Denali Park Road and wave down a shuttle bus as it approaches. The driver will let you know whether or not there is room for you. Remember to carry a copy of the transit bus schedule , available at the backcountry desk.

Detailed Planning Resources

After reading through the material above, browse these resources to learn more about specific backpacking topics.

Food safety Details on how to keep your food away from wildlife.

Wildlife safety More general information on how to behave properly around wildlife, particularly bears, moose and wolves.

Drinking water & backcountry sanitation Tips on avoiding bacteria from wilderness water sources (creeks, rivers, etc).

NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS

Read Today's Field Report

NPS Photo / E. Junck

Steps to Planning a Climb on Mount McKinley or Mount Foraker

1. Read the Expedition Planning Tools

Part 1 : Planning Considerations

Part 2 : Mountaineering Medical Issues

Part 3 : Equipment and Clothing

Part 4 : Clean Climbing

2. Apply for a Special Use Permit

Mountaineers that have physically climbed on Mount McKinley or Mount Foraker since 1995 can request a "seven-day exception" to the 60-day rule and instead register 7 days in advance of the climb.

An expedition leader is permitted to add one new member to their team at least 30 days prior to the start date of the expedition.

PAYMENT: Each climber must pay the permit fee using the Pay.Gov Denali NP&P Climbing Registration Form . Climbers will immediately receive an emailed receipt from Pay.Gov at the time of payment. The mountaineering special use fee is $475 U.S. currency for the 2027 season. A reduced fee of $375 will be charged for climbers aged 24 or younger as of the start date of the climb. The fee is payable via the Pay.Gov form. These funds directly offset costs such as maintaining the high altitude ranger camps, supporting ranger/volunteer patrols, providing mountaineering information, and keeping the mountain environment clean.

APPLY FOR SPECIAL USE PERMIT: After submitting payment through Pay.gov, each climber must complete the Denali National Park and Preserve Application for Special Use Permit . ( Climbers are strongly advised to read the accompanying Instructions for completing the standardized form as several of the fields will be confusing!) The Application form must be signed, dated and emailed to DENA_Talkeetna_ Office (at) nps.gov at least 60 days before requested departure date.

3. Climber Orientation

The Team Leader has paid their registration fee at Pay.gov, submitted a signed Application for Special Use Permit , and received their assigned orientation date and time, and

All other Team Members have paid their registration fee on Pay.gov, and submitted a signed Application for Special Use Permit .

4. Permit Terms and Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) About Mountaineering

Backcountry Climbing and Mountaineering

Mountain Weather Links

The National Weather Service publishes their mountain-specific forecast here: Mount McKinley Climbing Forecast (forecast available May to July)

MountainWeather.com compiles a Denali Area Weather page with links to the MesoWest data, the NWS Climbing Forecasts, as well as links to FAA webcams.

Historical Mountaineering Information

Climbing statistics - Yearly summit attempts from 1903 to present, as well as annual statistics by route for both Mount McKinley and Mount Foraker from 1979 to present.

Annual Mountaineering Summaries - Seasonal compilations of mountaineering statistics (including demographics, busiest summit days, etc), search and rescue summaries, medical overview, and a discussion of new routes and significant ascents.

Historical timeline of important climbing 'firsts' and interesting ascents

Mislow-Swanson Denali Pro Award Program

Other Helpful Reading

Denali Dispatches - Mountaineering Blog

Survival is Your Own Responsibility: Thoughts from a Retired Ranger, by Daryl Miller

Recommended Reading List

Registration and mountaineering ranger staff are available year-round at the Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station to answer your questions. Contact ranger staff by e-mail , or:

NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS