Danali Guide
 

Some friends are going to Denali and were wondering if it's possible to hire a guide.

Let me ask the question differently.

Is there any value or need to hire a guide?

What are you interesting in doing while in Denali and for what purpose are you considering a guide? More details please.

it's not for us.

Some friends are going and mentioned to my wife that they would like a guide.

I don't know much more. I was hoping this is something others do and could share.

I'm no expert, but I read the Alaska forum a lot. I've heard of guides used frequently in other areas, but not Denali. Most people take the shuttle bus tours (the drivers are guides) into the park, and may get off for hikes, then catch another bus back. Those staying in lodges inside Denali have the benefit of the staff there and the location for hikes and other activities.

Here's a website that may interest your friends:

http://alaska.org/

Tell them to be sure to check out the travellers' photos.

I'm not familiar with any hiking guides for the park, although maybe there might be guides for hire?

As said in the earlier post there is lots of info in the visitors center before heading in and the on the buses you may hear some information from the driver (although it's not your traditional tourist type of bus - no microphone with narrated stories). The drivers are friendly, answer questions, and mostly help you spot wildlife. There are a couple places the buses stop to let you off for photo ops. If you want to hike you can do so at any time and then just hop on the next bus that passes by flagging it down. Be prepared though because you are in bear and wolf country. Travel in groups, make noise, stay alert, don't go off into the bushes, and don't pack a lot of food. Also, there are times when the buses that are going past are full so you may not get on the first one that passes by. This happened to us and it began to rain. I am sorry I couldn't be more help, re: a professional guide. I haven't heard of anyone utilizing one in Denali. Maybe if you contacted the park directly they'd have more information?

There are some ranger guided hikes from the two Visitors Centers. The times are posted and you can just show up. The rangers will take you to the destination and leave you there. You can stay as long as you like and hike back on your own or go right back with the ranger. And as others have said, the shuttle buses take you into the park. The drivers aren't really guides, but will usually point out wildlife and stop for photo ops.
I don't think there's any further need for a private guide.

panecott, I guess we've been especially blessed on our Denali shuttle bus trips. All the drivers we had were great guides, whether that was their title or not. ;-)