Denali National Park is mostly known for being the home to Mt. McKinley – North America’s highest peak – but not much else. Within its six million acres, Denali offers visitors plenty to see and do. The park is home to 37 species of animals and 130 different types of birds. It’s also one of the few places in the United States that is just as beautiful now as it was a century ago. Denali is a favorite stop on many Alaskan cruise tours and wise visitors spend two or three days in the area.
While you’re in this beautiful section of The Last Frontier, here are some of the most popular attractions:
Flightseeing
There are several companies that operate throughout the park that offer air tours of the region. Many will get you very close to Mt. McKinley. Some cruise tour providers offer flightseeing as an optional excursion, so be sure to ask your trip director if it’s available to you.
Murie Science & Learning Center
Alaskan cruise tours are full of educational opportunities. The Murie Center is a part of an effort by the National Park Service to increase the amount of scientific research taking place on America’s public lands. Here, you and your family can watch presentations about the geography and ecology of the park, or participate in the popular half-day “Denali-ology” course.
Photo courtesy of the National Park Service/Denali National Park and Preserve
Sled dog demonstration
Denali is a truly unique national park. During the winter, Park Service rangers conduct winter patrols on dog sleds instead of snowmobiles or all-terrain vehicles. In the summers, the dogs have a different job.
Photo courtesy of the National Park Service/Denali National Park and Preserve
Every day the park gives tours of the kennels and educates guests about the huskies. The pups are happy to show off their skills to tourists each day.
Photo courtesy of National Park Service/Denali National Park and Preserve
Triple Lakes Trail
Although it is relatively new (opened in 2011) Triple Lakes has quickly become the most popular day hiking trail in Denali’s entrance area. The 8.6 mile route takes six to eight hours to complete and is great for hikers of various physical abilities.
Photo courtesy of the National Park Service/Denali National Park and Preserve
The terrain and vegetation is diverse and interesting. The first portion is flat, followed by a somewhat steep climb. Upon reaching the top, you’ll have a gorgeous view of the valleys formed by the Hines Creek and Nenana River.
Photo courtesy of National Park Service/Denali National Park and Preserve
At the end of the trail, you can walk to McKinley Village lodge, where a shuttle will take you back to the visitor center.
Photo courtesy of the National Park Service/Denali National Park and Preserve
The Alaskan cruise season will soon be in full swing. If you’re interested in visiting the Land of the Midnight Sun, now is the time to make your reservation. Contact one of our cruise experts at CruiseExperts.com by calling 1-888-804-CRUISE (2784).
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