Backpacking in Denali
Denali National Park & Preserve
A backpacking trip in Denali is unlike backpacking in most other national parks. Denali is about the size of Vermont, with only a handful of trails—most of which are near the entrance of the park for day-hiking, rather than overnight backpacking. This opportunity to set your own route and hike through a trail-less landscape amid wild animals and wilderness is rare in the 21st century.
A backpacking trip in Denali is unlike backpacking in most other national parks. Denali is about the size of Vermont, with only a handful of trails—most of which are near the entrance of the park for day-hiking, rather than overnight backpacking. Our goal is to provide visitors with the means of self-reliance and self-discovery; to encourage hikers to find what appeals to them rather than following specific routes. Rangers working here will provide you with the knowledge to make your trip as safe and enjoyable as possible—but, the path you choose in the backcountry will be your own. The more effort your group invests in planning your trip, the larger the reward. Come prepared to travel cross-country through remote terrain in harsh weather, and to rescue yourself in the event of problems. Generally, permits are issued in person only, and no more than a day in advance of your backpacking journey. Begin planning your backpacking trip now!
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2 Days
The backcountry camping permit is free. There is a park entrance fee Most, but not all, backpacking trips in summer begin with a bus trip, the ticket price for which varies slightly year to year. Learn more about buses in Denali.
No
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Denali is largely wilderness without trails, designated by Congress to remain a "primitive" area in many respects. The National Park Service strives to make the park as universally accessible as possible. However, extra obstacles will be encountered because of the remote, wilderness nature of this place. Visitors who use a wheelchair as their sole means of locomotion may use their chair in the backcountry, but should be aware that, without trails, the terrain is almost always uneven, steep, and, in low elevation areas, filled with thickets of willow and alder. Visitors who require the use of a service dog may be accompanied by their service dog on a backpacking trip. Denali is a wild landscape, filled with large and potentially dangerous animals. All backpackers must be particularly vigilant while hiking, to avoid startling animals that might act aggressively if surprised. Learn more about wildlife safety in Denali. Learn more about accessibility and wilderness
No — Pets are prohibited in the backcountry.
Yes — Backcountry camping permits must be acquired before you set off into the park. Learn more about how to acquire a backcountry camping permit.
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