Experience Denali.
Guided Hikes
Our guides are naturalists and educators, each with a depth of general natural history knowledge and a particular interest of their own. They are experienced backcountry travelers and skilled leaders. You don't have to be capable of scaling Denali to enjoy our hikes. All you need are good hiking boots, an enthusiasm for walking, rain or shine, and a spirit of adventure.
Each day, we offer guided hikes for a range of activity levels, led by naturalists who bring the landscape, wildlife, and history of Denali to life. From gentle tundra walks to climbs up 2,000-foot ridges, every outing blends exploration with insight, through both story and science.
The Hikes We Offer:
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Forays are a great option for those who want to take it slow and spend the day outside with a naturalist guide. We may operate from a van and take short walks on the park road, on unimproved trails or in firmer tundra, as group members are able. We also may take deeper dives into birding, plant identification, or geology as group interest and weather dictate. There are ample opportunities to take in the landscape, look for wildlife, photograph, and bird and botanize.
1-3 walks of a quarter to a half mile each. 3-5 hours.
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Moderate hikes allow guests to travel through a variety of terrain at an average pace. You may traverse trail-less, spongy tundra and bushwack around tundra ponds, rich with birds and wild berries, or climb alpine hills for the reward of expansive lunchtime views. There may be over-the-ankle stream crossings, rocky footing, or unimproved trails in addition to firm, dry tundra.
3-5 miles, up to 800 feet elevation gain. 4-6 hours.
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The “Stren” is for guests who want to learn about Denali’s ecology from our naturalist guides while hiking at a steady pace for longer distances and gaining significant elevation. Hikers must be prepared for stream crossings, steep climbs and descents, exposed hillside traverses, scree or loose, rocky footing, and patches of thick brush. Your effort will be rewarded with the extra cookies you packed from our bakery and the exhilaration of personal accomplishment in Denali’s rugged terrain.
4-6 miles, up to 2000 feet elevation gain. 5-7 hours.
Independent Activities
While our guided hikes offer the deepest insight into Denali’s landscape, independent activities provide the freedom to explore on your own terms. Whether you’re seeking quiet reflection or a full day outdoors, these options invite you to experience the park at your own pace.
Wander nearby trails through tundra and forest, right from your cabin door.
Hike the Local Trails
Cast a line in clear northern waters for this uniquely Alaskan fish.
Fish for Arctic Grayling
Ride a scenic stretch of the Denali Park Road, taking in its vast and quiet beauty.
Cycle the Park Road
Capture the ever-changing light, expansive landscapes, and wildlife that make Denali a photographer’s dream.
Photograph the Scenery
Paddle across calm waters with sweeping views of Denali and the surrounding peaks.
Canoeing on Wonder Lake
It is vacation, after all! Unwind in your cabin, relax in our historic lodge and library, or make yourself at home in any of our guest facilities.
Rest & Relax
Throughout the summer, we invite specialists to share their expertise with our guests and staff, both in the field and through evening presentations. Review the 2027 line-up and consider timing your visit to coincide with one of our Special Emphasis Series speakers.
Our Guest Speakers: Special Emphasis Series
David Sibley
Ornithologist, Author and IllustratorDavid Sibley, son of ornithologist Fred Sibley, began seriously watching and drawing birds in 1969, at age seven. Since 1980, David has traveled throughout North America in search of birds, both on his own and as a leader of birdwatching tours. He will be joining us from June 4th to 11th, 2027.
Drew Lanham
Author, Poet, Professor, 2022 MacArthur FellowJ. Drew Lanham, PhD, is an author, poet, public speaker and scientist, from Edgefield and Aiken, South Carolina. He is an Alumni Distinguished Professor and Master Teacher of Wildlife Ecology at Clemson University, whose work addresses the confluence of race, place and nature. He will be joining us from June 18th to 25th.
Writer and Environmental HistorianBathsheba Demuth
Bathsheba Demuth is a writer and environmental historian specializing in the lands and seas of the Russian and North American Arctic. Her work addresses how ecologies and people change each other over time. She will be joining us from August 9th to 16th.