Denali National Park, home to North America’s tallest peak, Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), is a vast wilderness of towering mountains, sweeping valleys, and diverse wildlife. Spanning over six million acres, the park’s breathtaking landscapes offer a stunning backdrop for a variety of outdoor adventures. From its alpine tundra to dense spruce forests, Denali’s natural beauty is truly unparalleled.

The park’s history is rich and varied, with significant ties to the native Athabascan people who have lived in the region for centuries. In 1917, the area was designated as Mount McKinley National Park to protect the Dall sheep from overhunting. An interesting fact is that Denali, meaning “The High One” in the native Koyukon language, stands at 20,310 feet, making it the third most prominent and third most isolated peak on Earth.

Must-see attractions include the Denali Park Road, which offers stunning vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities, and the Savage River Loop Trail, perfect for a day hike. For a truly unique experience, visitors can take a flightseeing tour to view the peak and surrounding glaciers from above.

The best time to visit Denali is from late May to early September, when the park is fully accessible, and the weather is most favorable for exploring. Summer months provide long daylight hours, while fall offers a chance to see the northern lights.

Photo by Joonyeop Baek on Unsplash