News Release

Winterfest 2022

Date: February 22, 2022
Contact: Sharon Stiteler, 907-683-9583

After a one-year hiatus, 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 2022, which is scheduled for February 26–27. This long-running community-wide event features an array of activities, with something for all ages, interests, and abilities! Check out the schedule of events.

On Saturday, February 26, the National Park Service will host a variety of free activities, including a ranger-led snowshoe walk, snow block sculpting competition, children’s activities, youth cross-country ski races, and more. Complimentary hot drinks and light lunch items will be provided by Doyon/ARAMARK Joint Venture at the Indoor Picnic Area. In addition, there will be community events in Healy, including hockey games, dinner, and Bingo games at the Tri-Valley Community Center. On Sunday, February 27, the Tri-Valley Community Library will host some family activities, including a story walk, movie, and crafts.

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 Indoor Picnic Area.

Winterfest is made possible with the assistance of Alaska Geographic, Doyon/Aramark Joint Venture, Denali Borough, Native Village of Cantwell, Denali Borough School District, Holland America-Princess, Three Bears Alaska, The Alaskan Coffee Bean, and the Tri-Valley Community Library.

The unstaffed Indoor Picnic Area is open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. as a warm space with restrooms and park information.  For more information about Denali, visit the park’s website at nps.gov/dena or call the park’s information line at 907-683-9532.