What to Pack
Mountain weather is quite unpredictable. Throughout our operating season, from early June through early September, temperatures can vary from lows around freezing to highs in the mid 80s. Our naturalist-guided hikes explore Denali's trail-less backcountry rain or shine. As the saying goes, "There's no bad weather, just the wrong clothing."
If you are traveling to multiple destinations in Alaska, you may want to store some of your extra bags at the park entrance luggage storage. The cost is approximately $5 per bag, per day, and checking extra bags will allow for more space in your cabin or room at Camp Denali and North Face Lodge. While the accommodations are extremely comfortable, they do not offer an abundance of space for unneeded baggage. Our driver naturalist guides can direct you to the luggage check when you meet them at the train depot.
Essential gear:
- Hiking boots: over the ankle, well broken-in
NOTE: Hiking is mostly on trail-less terrain or unmaintained trails. Conditions range from wet-spongy to gravelly or boulder-strewn ground. Running/walking shoes are not recommended for the hikes. Even if you only participate in leisurely walks, well broken-in hiking boots are essential for your comfort and safety.
- Rain gear: lightweight, good quality jacket and pants (for rain and/or wind)
- Hat and gloves: wool or fleece
- Warm layers: mid-weight wool sweater, fleece vest, fleece jacket
- Shirts: short and long-sleeved
- Pants: light weight (jeans are too warm and restrictive for moderate or strenuous hiking)
- Underwear: light polypro top/bottom
- Binoculars
- Day pack
- Extra camera batteries
Optional wear:
- Jeans, khakis, skirts, casual lodge wear
- Active sandals for stream crossings
- Hiking gaiters to keep moisture and debris out of your boots
- Bathing suit
Available to borrow:
- Day packs
- Rain jackets and rain pants
- Water bottles
- Head nets
- Walking sticks
- Fishing gear
- Boots: rubber bottom, leather top (good for walking in wet conditions, not for steep or rocky terrain)
- Mountain bikes/helmets
- Canoes/paddles/PFDs
Available for purchase:
- Hats, gloves, socks
- Clothing
- Insect repellent
- Books and field guides
- Postcards
- Quality binoculars
60 years of Camp Denali
We're celebrating our 60th anniversary at Camp Denali in 2012! Over the years, there have been some changes, but the vision of Camp Denali's founders still guides us. All summer long, we'll be celebrating the pioneer spirit and 60 years of sharing our unique perspective of Denali with visitors from around the world.
