Science in parks

The Murie Science and Learning Center is part of a national effort to increase the amount of scientific research in the national parks, and thus the effectiveness of science-informed decision making, and to make that science accessible to the public.

With a facility located in the entrance area of Denali, the Murie Science and Learning Center represents eight of Alaska's arctic and subarctic national parks and teams with a growing number of partners in research and educational activities.

The building is open to the public and features an exhibit area, classroom, and office space for visiting scientists. It is the hub for a variety of educational activities during the summer months. It also serves as Denali's winter visitor center, from late September until May 14 every year. It is located at mile 1.4 on the Park Road, a short walk from the Denali Visitor Center.

Summer hours

Starting: May 15, 2012
Ending: September 18, 2012
Daily hours: 9:30 am - 5 pm

Click here for more information on the Murie Science and Learning Center's role as the winter visitor center.

Educational offerings

The Murie Science and Learning Center offers many small group, interactive courses each summer. These include teacher trainings, field seminars and youth camps.

Partners of the center include Alaska Geographic, the Denali Education Center, Denali Borough School District, the University of Alaska, and Doyon/ARAMARK Joint Venture.

The Murie Science and Learning Center has their own website. Click here to visit it.

Experience Denali

This tour introduces visitors to Denali by encouraging them to see the park through the eyes of a scientist. Participants explore some of Denali’s habitats as they travel by bus to the Savage River area, leave the bus to take a mile walk, and participate in hands-on activities.

Participants ‘become researchers’ by using some of the tools of the scientists. Visitors learn about current research and how it helps us better manage the park and its resources. All proceeds from this fee-based education program are reinvested into the Murie Science and Learning Center. These funds have been instrumental in the Murie Science and Learning Center being able to fund teacher scholarships, the MSLC research fellowships, education grants for partner parks and k-12 education outreach by the National Park Service education staff. If you are interested in this kid-friendly program, please contact Alaska Geographic at the Murie Science and Learning Center for availability at 907-683-1269.

Field Seminars

Each summer the Murie Science and Learning Center offers a full menu of active field seminars. These small-group courses and science workshops bring participants into the field to explore the subject matter ‘up-close and personal’. These courses are led by distinguished biologists, botanists, geologists, published authors and excellent naturalists that take participants on a behind-the-scenes exploration of our park lands. More information can be found on their website or by contacting Alaska Geographic at the Murie Science and Learning Center at (907) 683-1269.