Denali - worth the bucks to stay in Kantishna?
Nov 2nd, 2003, 06:29 PM
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Denali - worth the bucks to stay in Kantishna?
Couple in late 40's planning a summer '04 trip, Prince William Sound small boat Cruise of 4 nights and then independent land touring by car to include Denali and Kenai Peninsula. Is is worth the price to stay deep in the park in Kantishna area for a night or two or just stay in park entrance area and travel in on park shuttle bus? Doesn't seem to be much discussion about the inner park accomodations. Thoughts appreciated.
Nov 2nd, 2003, 06:36 PM
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We stayed three nights at Denali Backcountry Lodge, even a little further in than Kantishna. It was the highlight of the trip. The bus trip in is very long, but worthwhile, and like us you will probably take a bus back out very early in the morning. That was incredible because we saw just about every animal known to the park --out before the other busses and people scared them away. I'm sure Kantishna works much the same way as the Backcountry Lodge -- with plenty of optional hikes and activities. I strongly suspect that those who only venture as far as the cars are allowed to go, don't get near the experience we got by staying back in the wilderness.
Nov 4th, 2003, 05:22 AM
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Yes, I do think staying at/near Kantishna is worthwhile, BUT if going mid season- you may encounter a significant amount of bugs. So inquire what the conditions have been in the past. For clairfication- those who do only get to Savage River- mile 16- certainly do not get much of any experience of Denali Park- get into the park and enjoy!!!!!
Nov 5th, 2003, 04:18 AM
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If you decide to stay inside the park I would highly recommend Camp Denali or North Face Lodge over the other two. Both have great views of Denali and the Alaska range while the others are further down the road and have views only of the Kantishna foothills. Camp Denali has the better view and the choice if you don't mind an outhouse. North Face is below and like a motor lodge. They both have minimum three night stays. This past August we actually stayed four nights in a cabin rented by North Face Lodge. Nice little place that sleeps four with great views of the mountains. Rental allows you to drive your own vehicle in on the park road. Regarding mosquitos. We went first week of August. While present they weren't as bad as the black flies and mosquitos we encounter in the Adirondacks. They were worse by Wonder Lake though. They are probably worse earlier in the season.
