How to Get to Denali National Park

Firees

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posted on 12 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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Located in the Alaskan interior, Denali National Park consists of six million acres of largely undisturbed wilderness with a single main road running through it. Many consider the highlight of the park to be the presence of Mount McKinley, the tallest peak in the country. Visitors may choose to experience it either by car or by shuttle or tour bus, all of which provide a detailed look at one of the most remote national parks in the United States. Before frequenting the site, visitors will need to know how to get there.

Steps

Flying to a Nearby Airport

Locate the closest airports to the park. There are options both for local travelers and for those who wish to visit from far away: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the closest major airport, located approximately 155 miles (248 km) south of the park. Fairbanks International Airport is another major airport option, located approximately 210 miles (336 km) north of the park. Several municipal airports offer local service, including Palmer Municipal Airport and Kenai Municipal Airport.

Research flight prices to find the best deal. Prices on flights vary from one location to another, and will also fluctuate depending on the time of year. Depending on where your trip originates, you may not have a direct flight to Fairbanks or Anchorage, so consider whether you may be willing to make multiple flight transfers when choosing your destination.

Purchase your ticket(s). Be sure to note whether you’re buying a refundable or nonrefundable ticket in case your plans change. Nonrefundable fares will often be lower, but you run the risk of not being able to get any money back if you cannot make the flight.

Read up on all of the fees involved in a visit to Denali. The park’s website highlights the costs you’ll incur during your stay: Single-Visit Passes $10 per person. This allows an unlimited number of travelers access to the park for seven days. Children 15 and under stay free. Season Passes Annual Pass (Denali National Park only): $40 per person National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass: $80 per person. This pass allows unlimited entry to any national park that charges admission. Those affected include the pass-holder and up to three adults over the age of 16. Those 16 and under are admitted free. Annual Military Pass (all national parks): Free. This pass is intended for all active military personnel and any dependents; proper identification is required. Access Pass (all national parks): Free. This pass is intended for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Acquiring one by mail costs $10. Senior Pass (all national parks): $10. This pass provides lifetime access for any U.S. citizens or permanent residents over 62 years of age. Acquiring one by mail costs $10. Volunteer Pass (all national parks): Free. This pass is provided to those who volunteer for 250 hours at any national park. Hours are tabulated on a cumulative basis.

Driving Directions from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport

Drive from the airport to the freeway. Take W. International Airport Rd. for 3.2 miles (5.1 km) Turn left onto C. St. and continue for 0.8 miles (1.3 km) Continue onto A. St. for 2.2 miles (3.5 km) Turn right onto E. 6th Ave. for 0.8 miles (1.3 km) Continue onto AK-1 N/E 5th Ave and continue to follow AK-1 N for 34 miles (54 km)

Navigate to AK-3 N. Continue onto Interstate A-4 W for 1.3 miles (2.1 km) Continue onto AK-3 N for 111 miles (178 km)

Turn right onto Byer’s Lake Campground Rd. and continue for 1.8 miles (2.9 km).

Driving Directions from Fairbanks International Airport

Drive from the airport to the freeway. Drive northeast on Airport Way/Old Airport Rd. for 0.8 miles (1.3 km) Continue on Airport Way via Byers Access Rd. for 1 mile (1.6 km) Merge left onto AK-3 N/AK-3 S/George Parks Hwy and continue south for 207 miles (331 km)

Turn left onto Byers Lake Campground Rd. and continue for 1.8 miles (2.9 km).

Taking the Train

Visit the Alaska Railroad website and plan out your itinerary. The website offers a detailed list of arrivals and departures, including trips from Anchorage and Fairbanks to Denali National Park. Make sure you leave yourself enough time to get to the train station from the airport, accounting for the possibility of delays.

Purchase your train tickets prior to leaving for Alaska. Although tickets can be purchased at the station on the day of your trip, buying them ahead of time will ensure that you will not be left without transportation if the train is sold out on the day you arrive.

Take a taxi or shuttle to the train station once you arrive at your respective airport. Both airports offer taxi service to all local destinations, including the train station.