Date: December 13, 2016
Contact: Katherine Belcher, (907) 683-9583
Come enjoy the winter solstice at Denali National Park and Preserve from 4:30- 7 p.m. on December 21!! Park rangers are hosting special event at the Murie Science and Learning Center (MSLC) where visitors can ski, snowshoe, or stroll on a snowy winter trail lit by luminarias.
The event is family-friendly and trails are appropriate for all levels of skiing or snowshoeing ability. Hot drinks will be served around a campfire and parking is available at the MSLC, which serves as Denali’s winter visitor center. In support of our Zero Landfill Initiative, we encourage visitors to bring their own coffee mug to enjoy the free hot beverages so we can avoid feeding the landfill!
Guests should bring warm clothes, a headlamp, and skis, snowshoes, or warm boots. Snowshoes are available for loan at the center free of charge. The 1-mile route, starting at the MSLC, will begin on the McKinley Station Trail and loop through Morino and Spruce trails. For safety, the loops will be one-way. People can make several loops if they'd like more mileage. A fireplace inside the MSLC serves as a cozy place to warm up and indoor restrooms will be available. If temperatures drop below -20, the event may be postponed.
Throughout the winter, camping in the Bear Loop of Riley Creek Campground is free on a first-come basis. The MSLC is open daily 9 am - 4:30 pm, except on major holidays. Trail maps, exhibits, park films and snow shoe check out are available at the visitor center. Gas, food, and lodging are available year-round in the communities of Healy and Cantwell.
