Denali National Park, Alaska’s crown jewel, is home to awe-inspiring landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the towering Denali mountain—North America’s highest peak. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a photographer, or simply seeking serenity in nature, Denali offers something for everyone. Here are the top five must-see places in Denali National Park, including tips on how to visit each and the best ways to explore the area while you’re here.
1. Denali (Mount McKinley)
Why it’s a must-see: At 20,310 feet, Denali Peak (Mt. McKinley) is the centerpiece of the park and the highest mountain in North America. While climbing the peak itself is a formidable challenge, visitors can still enjoy its majestic presence from several vantage points around the park. The Denali Viewpoint South offers spectacular views from the park’s main road, while the Denali National Park Visitor Center has exhibits and information about the mountain’s climbing history.
Best viewpoints:
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Eielson Visitor Center (Mile 66): Offers stunning views and interpretive exhibits.
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Stony Hill Overlook: Arguably the best full-face view of Denali.
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Denali Highway: You can often catch incredible Denali views on clear days, especially early in the morning.
Tip: The mountain is only visible 30% of the time, so don’t wait—if it’s out, get to a viewpoint fast.
2. The Denali Highway
Why it’s a must-see: The Denali Highway, which stretches for 135 miles from Paxson to Cantwell, offers one of the most scenic drives in Alaska. The road takes you through sweeping tundra, pristine lakes, and forests. It’s a perfect spot for spotting wildlife like moose, caribou, and bears. Many visitors consider driving this route a must-do for the full Denali experience and it can be experienced with Denali Jeep Excursions. It’s also ideal for photographers looking to capture the dramatic beauty of Alaska’s wild landscapes.
Some of the most popular pullouts along the Denali Highway include:
- Tangle Lakes Wayside (Mile 21): Overlooks the Tangle Lakes and the start of the Tangle Lakes Archaeological District. It is often used as a launch point for canoeing/kayaking.
- Maclaren Summit (Mile 37): The highest point on the Denali Highway at 4,086 feet. Offers panoramic views of the Maclaren River Valley and the Alaska Range.
- Maclaren River Bridge (Mile 42): Popular for fishing, photography, and launching kayak/canoe trips. The nearby Maclaren River Lodge offers food and lodging.
- Clearwater Creek Wayside (Mile 55.5): A rest stop with a small parking area and access to Clearwater Creek for fishing and scenic views.
3. Wonder Lake
Why it’s a must-see: Nestled in the heart of Denali National Park, Wonder Lake is a serene Denali location known for its crystal-clear waters and panoramic views of Denali Peak. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially when the peak reflects off the calm waters. Wonder Lake is also a popular stop for those on a bus tour through the park, providing a peaceful retreat in the wild landscape.
What to know:
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Only accessible via the park shuttle system.
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Wonder Lake Campground (temporarily closed) is a popular spot for overnight stays.
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Be prepared for mosquitoes in mid-summer—bring repellent!
Tip: Go early in the morning or at sunset for the best chance of mirror-like reflections.
4. Savage River
Why it’s a must-see: This is the farthest point along the Denali Park Road you can reach with your own vehicle (Mile 15), making it one of the most accessible areas for first-time visitors.
Things to do:
- Savage River Loop Trail: A relatively easy 2-mile trail through a scenic river canyon.
- Savage Alpine Trail: More challenging but offers sweeping views from higher elevations.
Wildlife watch: Dall sheep, marmots, and possibly even a grizzly bear—this area is a great place to spot wildlife up close (safely!).
5. Polychrome Pass
Why it’s a must-see: Polychrome Pass is renowned for its stunning views of layered, multicolored hills. The vibrant landscape of reds, oranges, and yellows makes this one of the most visually striking locations in the park. The area is also known for its high wildlife viewing potential, with animals like caribou, bears, and Dall sheep often spotted in the area. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Portions of the Denali Park Road near Polychrome Pass were impacted by a landslide in 2021. Construction along the Park Road is scheduled to conclude in 2025, however, visitors should still expect construction traffic in the summer.
What makes it special:
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Sweeping vistas of the Alaska Range.
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A kaleidoscope of colors on the hillsides in late summer.
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Frequent wildlife sightings: caribou, grizzlies, and golden eagles.
Experience The Denali Area with Denali ATV Adventures
While these locations are all incredible to explore, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the Denali wilderness is by taking an ATV tour with Denali ATV Adventures. This exciting, off-road experience allows you to venture into areas of Denali that are otherwise inaccessible. Whether you’re exploring the rugged terrain, spotting wildlife, or simply soaking in the vast Alaska wilderness, Denali ATV Adventures offers a unique perspective of the park.
Their knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary along the way, ensuring that you not only experience the beauty of the landscape but also learn about the natural history of the region. From the thrill of the ride to the stunning vistas you’ll encounter, an ATV tour is the perfect way to explore Denali’s wild beauty.
Book your Denali ATV Adventure today and make your trip to Alaska truly unforgettable!
