Join our naturalist guides and explore tundra valleys and alpine ridges where you can take time to observe wildlife and learn about Denali's sub-arctic landscape.
At Camp Denali we specialize in learning vacations for active travelers who seek more than a brief introduction to Denali National Park. If you want to hike Denali's backcountry, to observe its wildlife, and to understand more about the sub-arctic, we aim to exceed your expectations.
Our guides are naturalists and educators, each with a depth of general natural history knowledge and a particular interest of their own. They are experienced backcountry travelers and skilled leaders. You don't have to be capable of scaling Denali to enjoy our hikes. All you need are good hiking boots, an enthusiasm for walking, rain or shine, and a spirit of adventure.
Each day we offer guided group hikes organized by level of physical activity. Naturalist guides who share their knowledge of the landscape, wildlife and history enrich all hikes. Outings range from easy to difficult. We’ll scale local 2000-ft ridges, meander the lowland tundra, and scout the tundra ponds for birdlife, exploring the natural and cultural history of Denali through story and science.
The “Stren” is for guests who want to learn about Denali’s ecology from our naturalist guides while hiking at a steady pace for longer distances and gaining significant elevation. Hikers must be prepared for stream crossings, steep climbs and descents, exposed hillside traverses, scree or loose, rocky footing, and patches of thick brush. Your effort will be rewarded with the extra cookies you packed from our bakery and the exhilaration of personal accomplishment in Denali’s rugged terrain.
4-6 miles, up to 2000 feet elevation gain. 5-7 hours.
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Moderate hikes allow guests to travel through a variety of terrain at an average pace. You may traverse trail-less, spongy tundra and bushwack around tundra ponds, rich with birds and wild berries, or climb alpine hills for the reward of expansive lunchtime views. There may be over-the-ankle stream crossings, rocky footing, or unimproved trails in addition to firm, dry tundra.
3-5 miles, up to 800 feet elevation gain. 4-6 hours.
Forays are a great option for those who want to take it slow and spend the day outside with a naturalist guide. We may operate from a van and take short walks on the park road, on unimproved trails or in firmer tundra, as group members are able. We also may take deeper dives into birding, plant identification, or geology as group interest and weather dictate. There are ample opportunities to take in the landscape, look for wildlife, photograph, and bird and botanize.
1-3 walks of a quarter to a half mile each. 3-5 hours.
