Off-Trail Hiking

Denali is nearly the size of Massachusetts (or just over half as large as Switzerland), and most of the park has no established trails.

The idea of hiking in the wilderness, with no trail to follow, excites some hikers and confuses or intimidates others. However, the nature of Denali's Park Road and bus system, and the terrain itself, can make trail-less hiking more approachable than it may seem at first.

Hiking off-trail is a memorable and unique experience. The information on this page will provide you with some knowledge of where and how to begin such an adventure, but you may want to talk to a ranger upon arriving to clarify any questions or concerns you have before starting a hike. If you would prefer to stick to established trails, read more about hiking on trails in Denali.

 

When hiking off trail, disperse and walk side by side with your group, rather than in a single file line, so that multiple pairs of feet don't trample the vegetation in one spot.

NPS Photo / K. Zylland

Where to Go?

This is a question that only you can answer. Every person will want something slightly different out of their day hike, and the sheer size of Denali prevents any one spot from being "the best." Some people will want to hike up into steep terrain to gain big views, while others will prefer a stroll along a river. Some people don't mind pushing through thick brush for part of a hike, while others will want to avoid anything more than shrubs and small bushes.

Starting an Off-Trail Hike

A good strategy is to take an early transit bus into the park and scout the terrain from the road on your drive west. On your return back east towards the park entrance, you can ask your driver to let you off at whatever area looked most appealing.

Ending an Off-Trail Hike

After your hike, return to the road and wave down any passing green transit bus. You can get a copy of the latest bus schedule upon arriving in the park, or you can download a schedule to bring with you. On busy days, the first bus or two that you try to re-board may be full, so be prepared for the possibility of waiting an hour for a ride.

 

Safety

Are you prepared? Read about wildlife safety, weather, and traveling in the wilderness before you visit.

 

Terrain

In a trail-less wilderness like Denali, you will choose your own route. Pack your sense of adventure and an open mind—even with good planning you're likely to encounter unexpected terrain or sections of challenging bushwhacking.

For those newer to off-trail hiking, following a gravel river bar or dry creekbed can make navigation easier. But this terrain comes with its own hazards, including slippery rocks, cold and wet feet, fast-moving water, and river crossings.

The thickest and tallest brush is often found in terrain traps like gullies, alder and willow stands, and along streambanks. Brush is also generally thicker at moderate elevations, above the mature forest but below the alpine tundra. You can plan your route to try to avoid these areas, but be prepared to encounter brush anywhere in Denali.

Treeline in Denali is generally around 3,000 feet above sea level. Above treeline, you will find either brushy tundra, with plants that may slow your travel but allow you to see over them, or alpine tundra, with extremely short vegetation, easy walking, and good visibility. In many parts of the park, you will find that the Park Road stays in your view, even after several miles and several hours of hiking.

Learn more about the different types of terrain you could encounter.

 

Can you spot the hikers? The thickest areas of brush can easily be taller than a person, making travel very slow.

NPS Photo / K. Karnes

Equipment and Travel Tips

The list below is not exhaustive, but should help in planning your off-trail adventure.

• Carry adequate food and water. There are no restaurants or amenities west of mile 3 on the Park Road.

• Bring a means to treat water, such as purification tablets or a water filter.

• Wear appropriate clothing. Avoid cotton and choose either quick-drying synthetic materials or wool, which insulates even when wet.

• Plan for bad weather. Rain is likely (and snow is possible) in summer. A hat, gloves, rain jacket and rain pants may be necessary.

• In the case of a storm, avoid high ridges and exposed areas.

• Other gear, such as trekking poles, calf-high gaiters, and ankle-high boots will make your hike more comfortable. Even if you do not typically use hiking poles, you may find them useful on uneven off-trail terrain.

• Be prepared to self-rescue and carry a first aid kit. Travel immediately to the Park Road and flag down a ranger or bus driver if you need assistance.

• Bring a plastic bag to pack out your trash, which includes toilet paper and menstrual products.

• Download or print topographic maps using the USGS map viewer. Paper maps are available for sale at the Backcountry Information Center.

• Be aware of wildlife closures and avoid hiking within them.

• If your children require a car seat or booster seat on the bus, keep in mind that you'll need to either carry or safely store the seat before setting off on a hike. Car seats can be left in the food storage sheds at any campground, or at the Toklat Rest Stop. Car seats may not be left by the roadside—they often have food smells that attract animals large and small.

Stay Safe

It is safest to hike with at least one other person and to stay in areas where visibility allows you to see animals at a great distance and avoid them when necessary. In areas of brushy or alpine tundra, you can sometimes see for miles.

However, you will likely face areas of reduced or limited visibility while day hiking. When your visibility is reduced, you should make noise, either by talking with your partner, singing, or simply shouting "Hey there!" every few minutes. The human voice is distinctive and tells wildlife that you are in the area, which helps minimize surprise encounters. Bear bells, whistles, etc., are no substitute for your voice. The first few shouts may feel silly, but with enough repetition, they will seem a natural part of hiking in Denali.

 

Wildlife Closures

View a map of current wildlife closures. It is your responsibility to stay out of closed areas.

Walk Lightly on the Land

You can help protect Denali during your visit by practicing Leave No Trace principles.