Denali Tours
 

I was wondering if the Denali Wilderness Tours are worth the money or if the shuttle would provide essentially the same service.

You will find a strong consensus on this board that the park shuttles are the way to go.

All busses in the park are old school busses so you might as well pay a lot less.

The shuttle drivers are very knowledgeable and will stop for wildlife viewing.

A lot of people say you should go on the first bus of the day to see wildlife. Those busses are very early and crowded.

We got there at noon, bought tickets and left around 1:00. We were all very excited about how many grizzlies, moose, and caribou we saw. Better yet, we could see McKinley all day.

Take water and snacks. There won't be anywhere to get them. Be sure to take binocs.

It will be very dusty. I wished I had wet wipes or a wet wash cloth.

Question for Connie : did you see the wildlike on the first half of the tour or only on the second half ? Most posts on this board says you only see wildlife on the LONG tour (8 hours rooundtrip on a dusty bus with 8 & 5 year old kids, I am hesitating to do this). But if its possible to see wildlife on the first half of the tour, I will do it (4 hours riundtrip with 8 & 5 year old is no problem). What do you think ?

We didn't see wildlife close to the entrance but I would definitely say we saw wildlife in the first two hours--all kinds.

Another thing I forgot to mention was the first busses of the day are packed and our bus was only half full--which would be great for small children.

I have never been on a shuttle bus without a very informed driver. Passengers are also great spotters. As for taking a 5 year old- it wouldn't be my recommendation. It is a long ride that a lot of young children just can't tolerate. You have no way "out" and I doubt you can guarantee no disruptions. :) I am a first bus out rider. :) Go with what fits your schedule best. NO GUARANTEES on any wildlife and most will require binoculars. As an added option- consider the Anchorage Zoo and the Wildlife park in Girdwood. If in Fairbanks a look at the raindeer and musk oxen research farm at the University offers close up extended viewing.