Trip Idea

Visiting Denali in Winter

snowy landscape of forest and mountains under a bright blue sky
Duration Full Day
Topic(s) Night Sky, Scenic Views, Transportation, Wilderness, Arctic, Coniferous Forests, Trails more »
Activities Dog Sledding, Cross-Country Skiing, Stargazing
Type Active, Inspirational
Parks Denali National Park & Preserve

Suggested Activities
  • Denali National Park & Preserve

    Explore Denali's Winter Trails

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Cross-Country Skiing
    • Pets: Yes with Restrictions
    • Location: Winter Visitor Center
    • Duration: 1–12 Hours
    • Season: Winter, Spring
    • Time of Day: Day, Dawn, Dusk
    snowy forested landscape

    Whether on foot, skis or snowshoes, winter is a great time for you to explore Denali! Snow starts falling as early as September, although in some years the conditions aren't good for skiing until December, and it sticks around until April or May.

    View Details
  • Denali National Park & Preserve

    Look for the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Stargazing
    • Pets: Yes with Restrictions
    • Location: Outdoors
    • Season: Winter, Spring, Fall
    • Time of Day: Night, Dawn, Dusk
    green auroral light in a dark sky, framed by trees

    Aurora is like any weather phenomenon, where a forecast is issued each day. Unlike rain, though, aurora viewing can only occur when the far north is dark enough; and forecasts aren't nearly as precise as weather forecasts. Despite these challenges, any dark night in Alaska is a great time to look outside and hope for some signs of the Northern Lights!

    View Details
  • Denali National Park & Preserve

    Dog Mushing in Denali

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: Yes
    • Activity: Dog Sledding
    • Pets: No
    • Duration: 4–72 Hours
    • Season: Winter, Spring
    a team of dogs pulling a sled

    Though Denali's dogs are not available for visitor sled rides, there are opportunities for visitors to arrange for day trips or multi-night trips through a privately owned sled dog kennel in the area.

    View Details

Tags

Last updated: October 7, 2020