6-12 HoursFee applies
Sightsee on a Denali Transit Bus
Denali National Park & Preserve
Summer sight-seeing in Denali is mainly done by bus, and there are several trips to choose from. Transit bus trips are the cheapest and most flexible option, although they aren't narrated. From high up in a bus, it becomes possible to look over roadside brush, allowing you to enjoy the incredible scenery (and wildlife sightings, too!).
Denali is a unique park in many ways. There is just one road in the park, and traffic on most of it is regulated to prevent congestion, preserve a wilderness experience for sight-seers and reduce stress on wildlife. Travel on the road is mainly limited to a variety of bus trips. Transit buses are not narrated, but they are a great way to see and experience the park. Restroom breaks occur about every 90 minutes, and wildlife viewing stops will occur any time animals can be seen. Passengers are welcome to disembark to hike, either on the road or off-trail in the wilderness, and can board a different bus later in the day to continue their journey. Please visit the transit bus company's website to book in advance.
Tags
Bus/Shuttle Guided TourAnimalsBirdsWolvesTundraClimate ChangeFoothills, Plains and ValleysConiferous ForestsGlaciersMountainsNatural SoundsScenic ViewsUnique SpeciesThe Gold RushWildernesswildlifesceneryscenic viewpointswildernesstransit
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Details
Duration
6-12 Hours
Duration Details
When you buy a transit bus ticket, you'll choose how long of a trip to undertake. Choices are 6, 8, 10 or 12 hours round-trip, during the main summer season (generally June 8 to at least Sept 8; fewer options may be available before and after those dates). Durations include stops for wildlife viewing, bathroom breaks, and more.
Fees
Ticket prices vary depending on the duration of the trip. Please visit the transit bus company's website to find current prices.
Fees Apply
Yes
Seasons
Summer
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility
Several transit buses each day are equipped with wheelchair lifts. Please be sure to notify the bus company of this need when making reservations. Rest areas where buses stop offer wheelchair-accessible bathrooms. Most of the park road and rest areas are well-compacted gravel surfaces. Only the first 15 miles of the park road are paved.
Pets
No — Pets are not allowed on transit buses.
Reservations
Yes — If your visit will be short (e.g., 3 days or less), reservations are strongly recommended. Please visit the transit bus company's website to book in advance. Visitors who will be in the Denali area for more than a few days may find it more convenient to wait until arriving and purchase tickets in the park, at the Denali Bus Depot.
Age Info
There are no minimum ages; but state of Alaska child safety laws mean that kids under age 4 must be in a car seat. Car seats are not provided by the bus company, so please bring your own.
Location
Denali Bus Depot (Mile 0.5, Denali Park Road)