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It's important to reserve tickets for narrated bus tours ahead of time; call the numbers provided here or log on to www.reservedenali.com.
With a landmass larger than Massachusetts, Denali National Park and Preserve has too much area for even the most dedicated vacationer to explore in one go. When planning your trip, consider whether you want to strike out on your own as a backcountry traveler or to stay at a lodge nearby and enjoy Denali as a day hiker with the help of a tour or shuttle bus. Both options require some advance planning, for bus tickets or backcountry permits. But both options also offer a magnificent experience.
The McKinley Station trail begins at the Visitor Center and follows a winding path toward Riley and Hines Creeks. While the trail drops more than 100 feet during its 1.5-mile-long path, the grade is never very steep and is made of compacted gravel for easy walking. Easy.
An offshoot from some of the park entrance's tamer trails, this rugged route best suited to experienced hikers comprises native plants, rocks, and roots. Footing can be challenging on the steep portions and the switchbacks. It gains 1,700 feet in 2.5 miles and takes about four hours round-trip, with outstanding views of the Nenana River and the Alaska Range, including the upper slopes of Denali. You are permitted to hike the ridge, but it's not maintained and can be dangerous. From the top hikers can take in the view of the park entrance and area to the south. It's often cold and windy at the summit, so wear appropriate clothing. Difficult.
After following the Taiga Trail for a short time, the Rock Creek Trail splits to the west and offers a steeper, challenging, and quieter journey through the woods. Farther from the road than many of the trails near the park entrance, this 30-inch-wide trail can have a steep grade at times of up to 15%. All together the trail runs about 2.5 miles one-way, ending at the Sled Dog Kennels. Moderate.
Running about 4 miles, this trail system connects the Savage River pullout and campground areas. You can use the Savage River Shuttle to access the trailhead or your personal vehicle. Note that if you're using your own vehicle, the trail spits you out about 2 miles down the road system. If you park at one end, you can use the park's shuttle service to get back to your vehicle. Access is dependent on the weather. The trail isn't accessible for most of the winter. Moderate.
True to its name, the River Loop follows the Savage River up the valley carved between Mount Margaret and Healy Ridge for about a mile. The trail crosses a bridge before traveling down the valley and reconnecting with the Savage River Picnic Area. The trail is inaccessible during winter months. Moderate.
This simple forested trail that winds around the Denali Visitor Center and other buildings and connects with the bus and train depot. The trail is made of gravel with minimal grade, most explorers should be able to complete the loop in less than an hour. Access may be limited by snowfall in winter. Easy.
At 9.5 miles one-way, the Triple Lakes Trail is the longest trail in the park. It starts at the Denali Visitor Center and runs south, crossing a pair of creeks and offering vistas at a trio of lakes. The trail is a mixture of gravel, roots, dirt, and rocks that features a relatively steep 20% grade in some sections. Plan on it taking about five hours one way before you reach the other trailhead on Highway 3, about 7 miles south of the park entrance. Difficult.
