Things to Do Outside Denali National Park

Denali National Park is known for its landscapes, diverse wildlife, and untouched backcountry that attracts adventurers from all over the world. While the park itself offers numerous reasons to visit, there are just as many things to do outside Denali National Park as there are to do inside the park. From exhilarating ATV rides to serene rafting tours, there’s something for every type of traveler. Below, we dive into some of the top activities outside Denali National Park, highlighting offerings like Jeep tours, ATV adventures, ziplining, and local rafting tours.

1. Denali Jeep Excursions

For those eager to explore Alaska’s rugged terrain with a touch of comfort, Denali Jeep Excursions provides an ideal blend of adventure and convenience.

• Tour Overview: Embark on a scenic drive along the Denali Highway, a route less traveled that offers pristine views of the Alaskan wilderness. Participants drive 4-door 4×4 Jeep Wranglers®, navigating dirt roads that unveil panoramic vistas of Denali, the Alaska Range, glaciers, and abundant wildlife.
• Why Go: Jeep excursion offers a unique perspective of Alaska’s backcountry, allowing travelers to access areas rarely seen by the average park visitor. The combination of driving and sightseeing makes it perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
• Details:
  • Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
  • Departure Dates: May to September.
  • Pricing: Adults (13 & older): $189; Children (12 & under): $119.
  • Booking: Reservations can be made through Denali Jeep Excursions.
  • Minimum Age: 5 years old.
  • What to Bring: Camera, comfortable clothing, and a sense of adventure.
  • Additional Highlights: Tour guides provide historical insights, wildlife spotting tips along the way, and stop at scenic overlooks.

2. Denali ATV Adventures

Immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness with an adrenaline-pumping ATV tour that promises both excitement and scenic beauty.

• Tour Overview: Denali ATV Adventures offers guided tours through the backcountry, featuring hill climbs, creek crossings, and forest trails. Riders can choose between single-rider ATVs or side-by-side vehicles, accommodating different preferences and group sizes.
• Why Go: This adventure provides an intimate encounter with Alaska’s natural landscapes, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and experience terrains inaccessible by standard vehicles.
• Details:
  • Tour Options:
    • Denali Wilderness Adventure: A 2.5-hour guided tour suitable for all skill levels.
    • Denali ATV Trailblazer: A more extensive 3.5-hour ride for those seeking a longer adventure.
  • Pricing: Starting at $155 per ATV for the Wilderness Adventure and the Trailblazer tour starts at $230 per ATV.
  • Booking: Tours can be reserved through Denali ATV.
  • Minimum Age: 16 years old to drive; 5 years old to be a passenger.
  • What to Bring: Sturdy shoes, gloves, and sunglasses to protect against dust and debris.
  • Additional Highlights: Knowledgeable guides share local lore and provide safety instructions to ensure a fun ride.

3. Denali Park Zipline

Experience the Alaskan wilderness from a bird’s-eye view as you soar above the treetops on a thrilling zipline course.

• Tour Overview: Denali Park Zipline offers an exhilarating adventure that begins with a three-mile trail ride through scenic landscapes. Participants then gear up to navigate six suspension bridges and seven ziplines, culminating in a dual racer finale.
• Why Go: This activity combines the thrill of ziplining with breathtaking views of the boreal forest and tundra, providing a unique perspective of the Denali area.
• Details:
  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
  • Departure Dates: May to September.
  • Pricing: Adults (13 & older): $179; Children (ages 8-12): $119.
  • Booking: Reservations can be made through Denali Park Zipline.
  • Minimum Age: 8 years old and at least 70lbs.
  • What to Bring: Closed-toe shoes, comfortable clothing, and a readiness for adventure.
  • Additional Highlights: Dual-racing zipline experience allows friends and family to race side-by-side for added excitement.

4. Rafting Tours on the Nenana River

Experience the beauty of the park from a different perspective, the river. Flowing along the eastern edge of Denali National Park, the Nenana River offers an exciting rafting trip taking you through rugged canyons, below towering peaks, and offers the chance to spot Alaskan wildlife. Perfect for adrenaline-seekers and nature lovers, these tours provide an unforgettable way to explore Alaska’s wild beauty from the water.

• Tour Overview: With two tours to choose from, the Wilderness Wave Raft Tour provides an 11-mile journey along the natural boundary of Denali National Park and is suitable for ages 5 years and older. The Canyon Wave Rafting Tour is more of a wild ride, with more challenging rapids and views of National Park gems like Mount Healy and Sugarloaf Mountain, this tour is suitable for ages 12 years or older.
• Why Go: This rafting experience is suitable for families and individuals seeking a scenic river adventure that balances tranquility with exciting rapids.
• Details:
  • Duration: Varies depending on the specific tour selected.
  • Pricing: Details available upon booking.
  • Booking: Tours can be reserved through Denali Rafting.
  • Minimum Age: 5 years old for scenic Wilderness Wave Float Tours; 12 years old for Canyon Wave Rafting Tour.
  • What to Bring: Water-resistant clothing, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof camera.
  • Additional Highlights: Professional guides provide safety gear and instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Additional Activities Outside Denali National Park

Beyond the highlighted tours, the Denali area offers a plethora of other activities to enhance your Alaskan adventure, here are a few additional things to do outside Denali National Park:

• Flightseeing Tours: Experience Denali’s beauty from the sky with flightseeing tours that offer unparalleled views of North America’s tallest peak and the surrounding landscapes.
• Dog Sledding: Dive into Alaska’s rich mushing heritage by embarking on a dog sledding excursion, available even during the summer months on glacier-fed trails.
• Hiking and Nature Walks: Numerous trails outside the national park cater to various skill levels, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
• Wildlife Viewing: The areas surrounding Denali are teeming with wildlife. Guided tours increase the chances of spotting creatures such as moose, caribou, and bears in their natural habitats.
• Fishing Excursions: Try your hand at catching Alaska’s famed salmon and trout in one of the many rivers and lakes near Denali.
• Aurora Viewing (Seasonal): If visiting in late summer or early fall, the chance to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Planning Your Adventure

When organizing activities outside Denali National Park, consider the following tips to ensure a memorable and safe experience:

• Book in Advance: Many tours operate seasonally, and spots fill up quickly during peak months.
• Dress in Layers: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so layering is essential for comfort.
• Check Age and Skill Requirements: Some adventures have age limits and physical requirements, so confirm details before booking.
• Stay Flexible: Weather conditions may affect certain tours, so having a backup plan can enhance your trip.

Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to experience the wild beauty of Alaska in a new way, there are plenty of things to do outside Denali National Park that offer something for everyone. Book your tours today and make your Alaskan adventure unforgettable!