I'm thinking of visiting Denali NP,alaska in either July or Sept 2000 (from the UK). There are a very small number of hotels/cabins? 95 miles inside the park. They are very expensive. I was wondering whether it is worth paying more to stay inside the park or just as good staying at the entrance like most visitors do. Your comments would be appreciated. Also which month would be best.

The main attraction of Denali is getting up-close views of TRULY wild animals -- grizzlies, moose, elk, maybe even a wolf; none of whom have been contaminated by human contact. They don't beg for food, for instance. You will likely experience this no matter where you stay; the key is getting on the bus as early in the day as possible, NOT spending extra to be inside the Park.

The Mountain is just as visible (or NOT)from all parts of the Park, so don't spend extra money just in hopes of getting a better view.

Paul is right--get your reservations for the earliest bus out. You always see the most animals early in the morning. Our 1st trip through we had the most gorgeous weather! We couldn't go anywhere because there was a moose on the road in front of the bus! Then we had a bear come right up along side of the bus. We were lucky enough to see the great mountain in all her glory all the time. The bus ride deeper into the park is worth the early morning get up time! The 2nd. trip, the weather and the animals did not cooperate, but it was still worth it.

I have only stayed outside the park in a modern cabin across the highway. We also took the first bus in, got off and hiked/picnicked, then trudged back to the bus through the tundra. We saw every animal expected either from the bus or while walking, so we felt it was a great deal. Then we ate a good casual food--once at a salmon bake place on the highway and once at a pizza place. Be sure to take your insect repellent--the mosquitoes are ferocious. We were there in May so I can't comment about the timing. Sept would be less crowded than July.

We were at Denali in mid-June, took the late afternoon bus trip into the park and saw every kind of wildlife imaginable plus THE mountain. (The sun doesn't go down until after midnight) It was the highlight of our trip. Take binoculars and a zoom lens for your camera. We were on a Princess Cruise line trip and stayed in the Princess lodge which was lovely. Have a great trip.