13 Best Things to Do in Denali National Park in 2025
Denali National Park is a legendary destination that many travelers have on their bucket lists. With its towering mountains, expansive valleys, and abundant wildlife, it's a place where you can truly connect with nature. Whether you are seeking adventure or simply wish to enjoy the peaceful beauty of the landscape, Denali offers something for everyone.
Here are some of the best activities to consider while you’re there.
If you want to know how to plan your visit to Denali National Park, please check out our other Denali blog post.
1. Denali National Park Bus Tour
The top activity in Denali National Park is taking a bus tour. You can choose a bus tour that fits your preferences, budget, and schedule. If you want to learn more about bus tours in Denali Park, you can read our detailed article HERE.
To explore the park further, you will need to use the designated park buses. This system is designed to protect wildlife from the dangers of increased traffic. In 2025, Denali National Park will offer three types of buses:
Tundra Wilderness Tour,
Natural History Tour,
Non-Narrated Transit Bus.
2. Wildlife Viewing in Denali National Park
Denali National Park is great for seeing the "Big Five" large mammals: grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. Consider taking a bus tour for the best chance of spotting these animals. However, you should also keep your eyes peeled while driving through the first 15 Miles of the park road. We have yet to see any wolves, but they are out there!
Don't limit yourself to just the big animals; Denali is home to 39 species of mammals, 169 species of birds, 14 species of fish, and even one species of amphibian. Be sure to bring your binoculars!
3. Visit the Denali Sled Dog Kennels
Denali National Park has a long history of sled dog use, making a visit to the Denali Sled Dog Kennels a must for everyone. They offer free demonstrations during the summer, which last about 30 minutes and are held three times daily during peak season.
You can also visit the privately owned Husky Homestead run by Jeff King, a veteran musher and four-time Iditarod champion. These tours last approximately 1.5 hours and take place seven days a week, with three tours each day. Please note that this is an educational presentation, not a sled dog ride.
4. Go Hiking!
Denali National Park is a wild and beautiful place that may seem intimidating, but there is something for everyone to enjoy. The park service offers a Guided Nature Walk that covers approximately three miles and an option for more experienced hikers called the Discovery Hike.
In addition to these guided options, there are numerous self-guided trails to explore. Some popular choices include the Savage Alpine Trail, the easier Horseshoe Lake Trail, and the challenging Mount Healy Overlook Trail.
Local tour operators also provide guided hikes in the area. We typically book our guests with Northern Epics and consistently receive positive feedback about their experiences.
5. Fly over Denali National Park
Denali flightseeing tours are scenic flights conducted in smaller planes that provide stunning views of the Alaska Range, which includes Denali, the highest peak in North America. While these tours can be expensive, the unforgettable memories they create are certainly worth it.
In Denali National Park, two local operators offer these tours: Denali Air and Fly Denali.
You can read more about Denali Flightseeing tours HERE.
6. Take a Helicopter Tour in Denali National Park
Small planes aren't your only option if you want to see Denali National Park from above. Temsco Helicopters offers three unique tours:
Denali Glacier Landing - This tour includes a walk on Yanert Glacier, allowing you to explore the park up close.
Tundra Express - A shorter option, this tour features a 15-minute mountain landing.
Heli-Hiking Adventure - Designed for active visitors, this 5-hour tour includes a guided hike in the backcountry.
These tours provide distinct experiences for those looking to enjoy the stunning views and natural beauty of Denali National Park.
7. Whitewater Rafting
The Nenana River, situated just outside Denali National Park, offers fantastic opportunities for whitewater rafting. This popular activity is a great way to explore the area's rugged landscape. Several tour operators offer various options, so you should easily find one that suits your needs.
8. Ride an ATV in the Alaskan Wilderness
Denali ATV Adventures offers four guided tours just outside Denali National Park. All tours are guided and depart multiple times daily, lasting between two and a half to three hours. This makes it easy to fit them into your busy schedule. Get ready to get dirty and enjoy the ride!
9. Zip-line above the trees
Did you know there is a zip-lining option just outside Denali National Park? This three-hour tour includes a brief ride through the wilderness before you gear up and zip-line above the trees. If you have some extra time in the Denali region, this is a fantastic, family-friendly activity to consider.
10. Enjoy fly-fishing
Denali National Park may not be the most famous destination for fly fishing in Alaska, but Denali Fly Fishing Guides are ready to help you make the most of your experience! They focus on fishing the Nenana River and its tributaries, where you can target Arctic Grayling. This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy fly fishing in a stunning setting, free from the crowds often found on the Kenai River.
11. Go on a bike ride
Biking in Denali National Park is an activity for everyone! With various rental options available, including mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and e-bikes, everyone can enjoy exploring the park. The Denali Road is easy to navigate, so with the right equipment and local support, you can have a beautiful and active day outdoors.
12. Enjoy Alaska Cabin Nite Dinner Theatre
Are you done with outdoor activities? If so, head to Denali Park Village for an exciting dinner theater experience. The show runs daily and tells the story of pioneers from the Gold Rush in Kantishna. This popular performance tends to sell out, so book your tickets well in advance.
13. Visit 49th State Brewing - Denali
49th State Brewing in Denali Park offers excellent craft beer, delicious food, and stunning mountain views. Whether you sit indoors or on the outdoor deck, it's the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure in the Alaskan wilderness. Cheers to unforgettable brews and breathtaking scenery!
