Tsenesdghaas Na' Trailhead

A short 0.2 mile walk from the trailhead offers a view of the Nenana River.

NPS Photo / K. Karnes

Quick Facts

Location:

Mile 231 George Parks Highway

Amenities

11 listed

Benches/Seating, Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Picnic Shelter/Pavilion, Picnic Table, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles

The Tsenesdghaas Na' trailhead is located six miles south of the Denali Park Road entrance, at Mile 231 of the George Parks Highway.

Tsenesdghaas Na' means "rough rock creek" and is the Ahtna name for Riley Creek. Listen to an audio recording to learn how to pronounce the name.

Hiking Trails

• The 1.5-mile Oxbow Loop Trail is a short loop that contours along the west bank of the Nenana River, offering views from high above the river. The trail wanders in and out of spruce forest and eventually drops down to the edge of the river. This trail also provides walk-in access to a gravel bar on the Nenana River.

• The Nenana River Hiking Trail travels through the forest past several scenic viewpoints of the Nenana River. Beyond the second overlook, the trail becomes narrower with steeper grades and uneven surfaces. The trail is currently 6+ miles one-way, but is still under construction, so the exact length will vary. The far end of the trail does not connect to another trailhead. Be prepared to return the way you came.

• The southern end of the Triple Lakes Trail begins here. This 9.5-mile trail is the longest trail in the park, connecting the Tsenesdghaas Na’ Trailhead with the Denali Visitor Center Campus. Starting from the southern end, the trail passes under the highway bridge, eventually crossing some railroad tracks on the way to reach three scenic lakes. Continue north along a ridge to cross a suspension bridge and hike along Riley Creek. Plan ahead to arrange your own transportation back to your starting location.