Date: November 27, 2015
Contact: Kathleen Kelly, 907 683-9504
Consecutive early season storms have established snow depth and conditions sufficient for the Superintendent to determine that there is now adequate snow cover for the use of snowmachines for traditional activities in areas of the 1980 park and preserve additions that are south of the crest of the Alaska Range.
All areas of the 1980 park additions north of the crest of the Alaska Range remain closed to snowmachine use for traditional activities due to inadequate snow cover.
Riders are reminded that all lands within the former Mount McKinley National Park on both the north and the south sides of the crest of the Alaska Range are closed to all snowmachine use by federal regulation. Check out maps and GPS coordinates for the park and preserve boundary.
Snow coverage is variable. It is the rider’s responsibility to avoid locations where wind or topographic conditions may have reduced snow depth and created situations where damage to vegetation or soils could occur, or where vegetation is taller than the protective snow cover.
Riding conditions are potentially dangerous. There are areas of thin ice or open water on rivers, and avalanche threat is always a possibility. It is important to avoid steep slopes, narrow valleys, ravines and other terrain traps.
Winter weather in the Alaska Range can change very quickly and become severe, with high winds and temperatures well below zero. Park rangers stress the importance of bringing survival gear on all trips into the backcountry, informing friends or relatives of travel plans and to assess local conditions before venturing into the backcountry.
Find additional regulations and information regarding snowmobiling in Denali.
The entire park is open for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, skijoring, mushing or just quiet contemplation during this peaceful time of the year. Fat-tire bicycling is allowed on the Denali Park Road.
The Murie Science and Learning Center is open daily 9 am – 4:30 pm as the winter visitor center, providing visitor information and backcountry permits.
