News Release

Winterfest 2023 This Weekend at Denali National Park and Preserve

Date: February 21, 2023
Contact: Sharon Stiteler, 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 2023, which is scheduled for February 25–26. 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 25, 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 a hockey game, dinner, and Bingo games at the Tri-Valley Community Center.

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.

In celebration of the event, Saturday, February 25 and Sunday, February 26 are fee free days when Denali will waive all entrance fees. Annual or Lifetime passes will still be available at the Winter Visitor Center. The Winter Visitor Center and Indoor Picnic Area are open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. as warm spaces with restrooms and park information.