Visitors to Alaska's most sought-after national park, Denali, are rewarded with adventures they won't soon forget. See North America's tallest mountain, follow glacial-fed rivers, watch for roaming wildlife — every corner of this rugged landscape is an invitation for discovery.
Just eight miles from the park entrance, Denali Cabins is the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of exploration. Nestled among the trees, this serene collection of 46 private cedar cabins serves as a peaceful home base for your Denali National Park escape.
The friendly team at Denali Cabins can help arrange everything from flightseeing and whitewater rafting to sled dog tours. Here are just a few of the Alaska adventures waiting nearby.
Explore the majestic landscapes of boreal forests, wild rivers and occasional glimpses of snowcapped Denali (aka Mount McKinley) by hitting the trails.
The Horseshoe Lake Trail is a local favorite, offering views of the lake before looping around its shoreline and along the Nenana River. This beginner-friendly, two-mile round-trip hike is especially scenic in the summer, as wildflowers are in bloom and majestic moose or busy beavers are occasionally spotted nearby.
Hardy hikers will find Mount Healy Overlook a challenging trail with big rewards. The route gains 1,700 feet over 2.7 miles (one way) as it ascends halfway up Mount Healy, ending with panoramic views of the park valley. Most complete the round trip in about 3.5 hours, with chances to spot foxes, snowshoe hares and marmots along the way.
The Savage River Loop Trail offers a gentler option, tracing the river as it winds through a canyon. This short, 1.7-mile loop delivers plenty of scenery without a strenuous climb.
Those craving a tougher ascent will find it on Sugarloaf Mountain, just outside the park near the north entrance. This four-mile, out-and-back trail climbs 2,700 feet, offering sweeping views of the Alaska Range and Nenana River Valley along the way, as well as striking red and orange rock formations that set it apart from most Alaska trails. It’s as steep as a hike can get without requiring scrambling, and it’s often uncrowded. Keep an eye out for Dall sheep along the ridgeline!
Tip: Prefer to go with the pros? Consider a guided hike with the experts at Northern Epics.
One of the most heartwarming experiences near Denali National Park awaits at Husky Homestead. Founded by Jeff King, a four-time Iditarod champion, the homestead offers a glimpse into the life of a world-class musher. Visitors can meet sled dog puppies, see champion Alaskan huskies in training and hear stories from King’s decades of racing and exploring the backcountry.
In summer, travelers are welcomed to the property just outside Denali (and within walking distance from Denali Cabins), where they can watch the dogs in action and learn how dog mushing remains a vital part of life in Alaska.
Go for a ride across Denali's forests, rivers and open tundra by ATV. Denali ATV Adventures offers both guided and private trips, where riders can climb hills, cross creek beds and even take a nighttime tour to experience the land of the midnight sun.
Black Diamond Resort Co. features additional ATV adventures, including dining experiences, treasure hunts and side-by-side excursions. For a slower way to take in the scenery, Black Diamond also offers horse-drawn wagon rides.
One of the best ways to see the park's towering peaks up close is on a flightseeing tour. Board a small plane with Denali Air, the original flight tour company in Denali National Park, and take off from the closest airstrip to North America’s tallest mountain. Denali Air’s location often provides access to favorable weather conditions, and nearly the entire flight takes place within park boundaries.
TEMSCO Helicopters Inc. offers another way to see Alaska from above, with tours that not only give you views of Denali but also offer landing opportunities in remote areas. Guests can explore glaciers, nearby mountains outside the park and stretches of wild backcountry during these incredibly scenic stops.
Float the glacial waters of the Nenana River, winding through deep canyons with dramatic mountain views above. Denali Raft Adventures, the area's original rafting company, has spent over 50 years guiding visitors along this waterway. They offer thrilling whitewater runs, gentle trips for beginners and “mild and wild” options that fall in between — something for every experience level.
New Wave Adventures also provides a range of river-top trips, from family-friendly “Wilderness Wave” floats to their popular half-day Combo Tour, pairing scenic valley views with the thrill of rapids like Razorback and Train Wreck. Both outfitters supply all the gear and experienced guides, so all you need to do is show up ready for adventure.
Soar through Denali’s treetops with Denali Park Zipline, where a network of ziplines, suspension bridges and ladders lead to a dual zipline race at the finish.
The adventure also includes an ATV ride to the course, giving it a two-in-one feel. Guides share fun facts and local knowledge throughout the adventure, and you might even spot a moose or other wildlife below as you zip above and through the canopy.
Looking to relax between the excitement? Denali Cabins offers plenty of ways to unwind without leaving the property. Soak in the hot tubs or warm up in the wood-fired saunas, both open daily. Refuel at Prey Pub & Eatery, a rustic on-site restaurant serving Alaskan twists on pub favorites. For a quick pick-me-up during the day, stop by Mount Hunter Coffee Co. for coffee, tea and healthy grab-and-go options.
After the day’s adventures wrap up, browse the gift shop for souvenirs from your trip or gather around the fire pit to swap stories with other guests — if it’s a Friday, you may even catch a hosted Fireside Chat. You can also take a quiet stroll around the grounds for peaceful views of the surrounding mountains and forest.
Settle in at Denali Cabins, your gateway to Alaska's untouched wilderness, grand adventures and legendary wildlife.
About the Author
Based in Anchorage, Alaska, Andrea Burtzel is an outdoor advocate who loves inspiring others to get outside through activities like rock climbing, mountain biking and trail running. When she’s not out exploring, she’s working toward a degree in Journalism and Public Communications at the University of Alaska Anchorage. Follow her on Instagram at @andreainalaska or connect with her professionally at andreaburtzel.com.
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