Discover the Heart of Denali
Denali National Park & Preserve is open year-round to visitors. The park is famous for spectacular landscapes, rugged peaks, and abundant Denali wildlife. The Alaska Range, where Denali is located, splits the park into north and south sides.
Alaska State Law requires children to be in a car or booster seat as follows:
- Children younger than 1 year of age or less than 20 pounds (9 kilograms) must be in a rear facing infant seat.
- Children 1 to 4 years and at least 20 pounds (9 kilograms) must be in a child restraint.
- Children 5 to 7 years who are less than 57 inches (1.4 meters) tall or less than 65 pounds (30 kilograms) must be in a booster seat.
- Once child outgrows 65lbs a forward faceing booster seat with shoulder-lap seat belt should be used.
- Parents are responsible for providing the appropriate car/booster seat.
The North Side
The majority of visitors access the north side of the park by way of a single road 92 miles long. Beyond Mile 15 of the park road, visitors cannot drive personal vehicles and must enter the park by bus, bike, or on foot.
The Denali Visitors Center is located in the front country area of the park. Area information and interpretive services can be found here. The Visitor Center is open from May 15 to September 15. The Murie Science & Learning Center is open year round and serves as the winter Visitor Center. Rangers are available from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM to answer visitor questions and help plan trips.
The South Side
Denali National Park & Preserve's south side is accessed mostly by mountaineers climbing Denali and other peaks in the Alaska Range, or by scenic flight tours. Climbers are required to check-in with rangers at the Talkeetna Ranger Station before climbing Denali.
The Talkeetna Ranger Station stays open year round. Rangers at the Talkeetna Ranger Station also offer interpretative programs about the park throughout the summer.
Be prepared for the time of your life at Denali Park Village! Whether it is a relaxing stay at our scenic lodge or cabin or a busy week full of tours, hiking, rafting, or other activities, we are positive you will never want to leave. Check out our brochures to learn even more and better plan your trip of a lifetime!
- Denali Park Village Property Map & Guide (PDF)
- Denali National Park Tours (PDF)
- Denali Park Village Dinner Theater (PDF)
- Denali Park Village Activities (PDF)
When you stay with us at Denali Park Village, doing a tour (or a few!) is a must! Really get out and explore the vast Denali wilderness. See wildlife you won't be able to see anywhere else! Choose from four very popular tours, all of which are led by expert Certified Interpretive Guides. Find out more today!
In efforts of expediting your check-in when you arrive, you may want to take a few moments to fill out and sign the Waiver of Liability forms for the following activities.
From getting to Denali National Park & Preserve - to making your way to the Denali Park Resorts gift shop, the links below will guide the way.
National Park Service - Camping Reservations at Denali National Park
National Park Service - Plan Your Visit to Denali National Park
Your Denali adventure will be full of contrasts – untamed wilderness by day and luxury accommodations by night. We’ve put together this convenient packing list to help you plan for this unique adventure and ensure you’re comfortable, safe and enjoying every moment of your vacation.
Alaska's climate during the May-through-September travel season ranges from cool and rainy in the Inside Passage, to mild and sunny in the Interior and the Anchorage area. No matter which time of year you visit, dressing in layers is always a good idea. You'll be far more comfortable in a cotton turtleneck topped with a light sweater and windbreaker than bundled up in a parka. You can add and subtract layers as the weather warrants.
Packing List
Use this Alaska packing lists and tips below as starters and modify them for your personal tastes and needs.
Clothing you can layer | Long underwear, a fleece, and a waterproof/breathable shell |
Comfortable shoes with good traction | Running shoes with good support are adequate for anything you'll do except hike steep hillsides (which you may not do). If you prefer something sturdier, lightweight hikers are great, and some are waterproof as well. |
Sun protection | Lightweight, brimmed hat (sun and rain); sunglasses and sunscreen |
Light Winter cap/gloves/scarf | These really keep you warm if it gets unseasonably cold—or if you're feeling the effects of glacier-chilled wind—without adding a lot of weight. |
Summer Clothing | Unless you prefer last minute local shopping, pack shorts and short sleeve shirts. Recent Alaskan summers have been hot and sunny. |
Formal vs. Casual | Casual dress is the way to go in Alaska. Some cruise-goers bring formal attire for onboard the ship, then break out the jeans on land. |
Mosquito Repellent | The bugs generally aren't as bad as people fear, and they're really only a big consideration in June and July. If you really want to protect yourself, there's nothing as effective as 100% DEET products. Mosquito head nets tend to be overkill unless you plan on doing a lot of hiking or tent camping, as they obscure visibility and can get warm. |
Fishing License | You can order this ahead of time online, but it's easy to obtain from your air taxi, fishing guide, or most local groceries. |
Small First Aid Kit | Most hotels and tour operators will have you covered, but it's convenient to have bandages and ointment for minor emergencies |
Camera/Video Camera | Capture your Alaska experiences in real time and don't forget the extras: batteries, lenses, chargers, and memory cards. |
Backpack or Tote Bag | (medium to large) |
Zipper-Top Bags | Freezer-size zipper-top bags are great to keep clothing folded and toiletries isolated (in case of leaks). Separate baggies make it easier to repack in case your luggage is searched, and extra bags are handy for storing dirty or damp clothing. |
Watch/Alarm Clock | With so much daylight, it's easy to lose track of time. |
Additional Suggestions
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