Denali National Park, Alaska

Denali National Park, Alaska

Discover Alaska's Untamed Wilderness

Experience breathtaking mountain views, scenic hiking trails, and incredible wildlife viewing.

AlaskaCruises.com visits Denali National Park, Alaska.

Last Updated: October 2026 | Reviewed by: Avril Smith, Staff Writer

Denali National Park and Preserve is one of Alaska's most spectacular natural attractions and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Located in the heart of Alaska, this incredible park is home to Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America, standing at 20,310 feet (6,190 meters) above sea level.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, vast forests, beautiful rivers, and open tundra landscapes. The park is also famous for its diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep. It is the perfect place for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, wildlife watching, photography, and scenic bus tours.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Denali National Park, Alaska?


Wildlife in Denali National Park

While summer is the most popular time to visit Denali National Park, this breathtaking destination offers plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the year.

  • Sightsee on a Denali Tour Bus: Available during the summer season, Denali's bus tours offer a comfortable way to take in the park's spectacular scenery and spot wildlife along the way. They're a great option for families with children and anyone looking to explore the park without hiking long distances.
  • Explore Mountain Vista and Savage River: Enjoy Denali's beautiful natural scenery, with several trails to explore and a picnic area where you can relax and take in the views. These areas are only accessible by car.
  • Hiking: Whether you join a ranger-led hike or set off on your own, Denali offers incredible views and plenty of opportunities to explore its breathtaking wilderness. Check out all the trails here.
  • Biking: Ride along scenic park roads and enjoy panoramic views of Denali's rugged mountains, open tundra, and stunning landscapes.
  • Berry Picking: In late summer, look for wild berries growing throughout the park. It's a fun way to experience Denali's natural beauty, but be sure to identify berries correctly and follow park regulations.
  • Watch Wildlife: Keep an eye out for some of Alaska's most iconic animals, including moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and grizzly bears. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance.
  • Camping: Spend a night surrounded by Denali's pristine wilderness and enjoy the peace and quiet of Alaska's great outdoors. Be sure to check campground availability and seasonal restrictions before your visit.
  • Photography: Capture Denali's breathtaking landscapes, from towering mountains and vast tundra to unforgettable wildlife encounters. Every season offers unique opportunities for photography.

Optional Land Excursions in Denali National Park, Alaska


Helicopter Flightseeing in Denali
  • Helicoper Flightseeing: Flightseeing aboard a helicopter is an ideal opportunity to see unexplored areas of Denali National Park accessible only by air. Follow Riley Creek over rugged foothills to the headwaters of Sanctuary River. Watch for grizzly bear, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. Examine the dramatic geological features of the Polychrome Mountains and soar along the spine of the imposing Alaska Range. See the stunning Cantwell Glacier a virtual waterfall of ice cascading 900 feet to the valley below. You may catch a glimpse of majestic Mt. McKinley towering on the horizon.

  • Whitewater Rafting: For those who thirst for whitewater adventure, set a course through the Nenana River Gorge. Traveling in oar-powered rafts rowed by experienced guides, the raft trip through the Nenana Gorge is Alaska's most popular whitewater raft tour. No paddling is required just hang on as you make your way through miles of action packed whitewater adventure. Offering several major rapids, magnificent scenery, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife, this raft trip is popular with adventurous first timers and experienced whitewater veterans alike.

  • Golfing on Denali's Tundra: This is like no other golf excursion you have experienced. This rugged links-like nine hole golf course is maintained on tundra, creating a unique playing surface. Imagine recounting to your friends at home about your golf outing on the Alaska tundra. All golfing essentials are provided. The package tour includes the greens fee, clubs, power cart, scorecard, and as many playing balls as you need to finish your round. The relaxing environment, mountain air and spectacular panoramic scenery truly make this a once in a lifetime opportunity. Par 34/3000 yards.

  • Husky Homestead Tour: Dog mushing is a way of life in Alaska and this tour gives you a chance to meet someone who has dedicated his life to the sport and lifestyle. A few miles south of the Denali National Park entrance is a very special place called Goose Lake Kennel. It is home to champion Iditarod musher Jeff King, his wife Donna, a well-known wildlife artist, their three daughters, and 75 friendly, energetic sled dogs. You'll meet some of Jeff's champion Iditarod dogs up close and get to play with some of the puppies. See a training demonstration of a dog-powered carousel and daily life at the kennel.

Additional Shore Excursions are available. Please call us toll free at 1-800-201-6937 for more information and reservations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Denali National Park

Can I visit Denali National Park on an Alaska cruise?

Yes. However, Denali National Park is located inland, so a typical Alaska cruise does not visit the park. To explore Denali, you can book an Alaska cruisetour that combines a coastal cruise with a land-based itinerary.

What is included in an Alaska cruise and Denali National Park tour?

Inclusions vary by cruise line and itinerary. Many Alaska cruisetours combine a multi-night cruise with hotel or lodge accommodations, scenic rail travel, motorcoach transfers, and time to explore Denali National Park. Some packages also include guided sightseeing tours and wildlife-viewing experiences. Review the itinerary details to confirm what is included in your package.

How many days should I spend in Denali National Park?

Plan to spend at least two days in the Denali area if your schedule allows. This gives you time to take a guided park tour, enjoy the surrounding scenery, and participate in optional activities. A longer stay may be ideal for travelers who want a more relaxed pace or additional outdoor adventures.

What is the best time of year to visit Denali National Park?

Summer, particularly June through August, is a popular time to visit Denali because of the long daylight hours and opportunities for sightseeing and wildlife viewing. May and September can offer a quieter experience, although weather, available activities, and seasonal services vary. Check operating schedules when planning your trip.

How do I get from an Alaska cruise to Denali National Park?

Transportation depends on your cruise itinerary and tour package. Many cruisetours connect cruise ports with destinations such as Anchorage and Denali using scenic rail journeys, motorcoaches, or a combination of both. Check your package itinerary for transfer arrangements and travel times.

Are Denali National Park Cruisetours Suitable for Families with Children?

Yes! Denali National Park cruisetours can be a fantastic choice for families traveling with children. These land-and-sea vacations combine an Alaska cruise with inland adventures, offering opportunities to enjoy scenic train rides, discover Alaska's wildlife, explore breathtaking landscapes, and experience family-friendly excursions.

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