News Release

Denali Winterfest 2019 Activities Begin February 22

Date: February 13, 2019
Contact: Katie Mikulla, 907.683.6385

Denali National Park and Preserve and the communities of the Denali Borough invite all who love winter to come and celebrate Alaska’s longest season at Winterfest 2019, which is scheduled for February 22-24. This long-running community-wide event features an array of activities, with something for all ages, interests, and abilities! Check out the full schedule of events.
 
Festivities will begin Friday evening with a Winterfest Weekend Kickoff Party at the McKinley Park Community Center. On Saturday, the National Park Service will host a variety of free activities, including a ranger-led snowshoe walk, snow block sculpting competition, children’s activities, dog sled rides, youth cross-country ski races, and more. In addition, there will other community events, including a Chili Cook-off and BINGO games at the Tri-Valley Community Center and a chocolate-themed movie night at Tri-Valley Community Library.
 
Complimentary hot drinks and light lunch items will be provided by Doyon/ARAMARK Joint Venture. If weather permits, the Denali Park Road will be open to the public as far as the Mountain Vista Rest Area at mile 12. The rest area has vault toilets and picnic shelters; it is an ideal location for viewing Denali and exploring the park via snowshoes, skis or sled dogs.
 
Meals, lodging and other services are available year-round in the communities of Healy and Cantwell. Free camping is available in the Bear Loop of the park’s Riley Creek Campground. A vault toilet is provided and water is available at the Murie Science and Learning Center.