Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a novice explorer, Denali National Park offers some of the most exquisite and diverse trails in North America. With over six million acres of untamed wilderness, you are guaranteed to witness unforgettable panoramas, encounter wildlife, and experience the serenity that only pristine nature can provide.

This guide will walk you through the top five hiking trails in Denali National Park, catering to all levels of hiking expertise. We’ll detail each trail’s location within the park, length, expected time to complete, intersections with other trails, general scenery, level of difficulty, and nearby campgrounds.

1. Horseshoe Lake Trail

One of the most accessible trails in Denali, the Horseshoe Lake Trail, is perfect for beginner hikers or families. The trail is located near the Denali Visitor Center, making it an easy start to your adventure.

The Horseshoe Lake Trail is a 3-mile loop and usually takes about 1.5-2 hours to complete at a leisurely pace. The trail is famous for its stunning view of the horseshoe-shaped lake and dense forest scenery. It intersects with the Taiga Trail, giving hikers an optional extra 1.5 miles of exploration.

This trail has a low difficulty level due to its relatively flat terrain and well-maintained path. Nearby, you’ll find the Riley Creek Campground, a well-equipped campsite ideal for families and first-time campers.

2. Triple Lakes Trail

The Triple Lakes Trail is a long-distance trail for intermediate hikers. It’s located near the Denali Visitor Center and stretches south towards the Nenana River.

At 9.5 miles one way, this trail can take 6-8 hours to complete, depending on the hiker’s speed. It offers diverse scenery, from dense forests and serene lakes to the magnificent views of the Alaska Range. The trail intersects with the Riley Creek Loop and Roadside Trails.

The Triple Lakes Trail has a moderate difficulty level due to its length and some steep sections. The trail ends near the Nenana River, where hikers can camp at the riverside campground.

3. Mount Healy Overlook Trail

Located near the Denali Visitor Center, the Mount Healy Overlook Trail is a moderate trail with some strenuous climbs. It’s an excellent option for intermediate hikers looking for a challenging day hike.

This 5.4-mile round trip trail typically takes 4-5 hours to complete. It’s renowned for its sweeping views of the Denali Range, the Nenana River, and the entrance to Denali National Park. The trail intersects with the Taiga and Roadside Trails.

The Mount Healy Overlook Trail has a moderate difficulty level due to its steep inclines. Nearby, you can find the Riley Creek Campground, perfect for rest and recuperation after a day’s hike.

4. Savage River Loop

The Savage River Loop is an accessible and enjoyable trail for all levels. It’s located at Mile 15 on the Denali Park Road, the furthest point private vehicles are allowed during the summer.

This trail is a 2-mile loop, generally completed in 1-2 hours. It offers up-close views of the Savage River and its rugged canyon walls. It doesn’t intersect with any other trails, offering a purely immersive and isolated hiking experience.

This trail is easy, with a well-maintained path and minimal incline. The nearby Savage River Campground is perfect for those looking to stay overnight.

5. Eielson Alpine Trail

For experienced hikers, the Eielson Alpine Trail offers an exceptional challenge and unparalleled views of Denali, the highest peak in North America. The trail starts at the Eielson Visitor Center, which is accessible via the Denali Park Road shuttle bus at Mile 66.

This trail is a 3-mile round trip, typically taking 2-3 hours to complete. It provides a broad spectrum of the park’s scenery, from alpine wildflowers to the sweeping glacial landscapes.

It’s a standalone trail, providing a focused and unique adventure up the ridgeline.

Eielson Alpine Trail is rated as strenuous due to its steep and rugged terrain, but the stunning views at the top are well worth the challenge. Nearby, the Eielson Visitor Center has rest facilities and a campground.

Each of these trails offers a unique window into the wonders of Denali National Park. As you plan your adventure, remember to respect the park’s guidelines to ensure the preservation of this pristine wilderness for future generations.

RV Campgrounds Near Denali’s Top Hiking Trails

Exploring the awe-inspiring beauty of Denali National Park is even more delightful when you have a comfortable place to unwind after a long day of hiking. For those who love the RV camping lifestyle, several campgrounds near our top five trails cater to this specific need.

Horseshoe Lake Trail

Riley Creek Campground is a few steps away from the Horseshoe Lake Trail. As the largest campground in the park, it is equipped to accommodate RVs. It has 147 sites with size limits up to 40 feet for RVs. Facilities include a mercantile selling camping supplies and food, potable water, flush toilets, and a dump station.

Triple Lakes Trail

The end of the Triple Lakes Trail is also close to Riley Creek Campground. After a long hike on this trail, you’ll appreciate the convenience of returning to your RV, with amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and a shuttle stop for easy access to other parts of the park.

Mount Healy Overlook Trail

Located just outside the park entrance, the Denali RV Park and Motel is a privately-owned campground that caters specifically to RV campers. It offers amenities that are not commonly found within the park’s boundaries, such as full hook-up sites, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, showers, and a convenience store.

The campground offers both pull-through and back-in sites, accommodating RVs of varying lengths. Additionally, it provides a shuttle service to the Denali Visitor Center, making it an excellent base for your hiking adventures, including the Mount Healy Overlook Trail.

Staying at the Denali RV Park and Motel gives you the convenience of modern amenities while being surrounded by the extraordinary natural beauty of Denali. This can be a great option for those who prefer to mix their wilderness exploration with a little more comfort and convenience.

Savage River Loop

Although it’s a bit further away from the trailhead, located at Mile 13 on the Denali Park Road, Savage River Campground provides a quieter setting and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The grounds can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet in length and have 33 sites available. It has basic amenities like pit toilets, potable water, and picnic tables. However, it does not provide electricity, dump stations, or showers.

This location could be an excellent choice for hikers who want a more serene camping experience in the heart of Denali National Park. Being situated close to the Savage River, it offers quick access to other nearby trails and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Eielson Alpine Trail

Near the Eielson Alpine Trail, you have the Teklanika River Campground, accessible by the Denali Park Road shuttle bus. At Mile 29, it is the second farthest campground in the park. Teklanika can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, with 53 sites available. It is equipped with potable water and pit toilets. Note that a three-night minimum stay is required, and once parked, RVs may not be moved until departure.

RV camping in Denali National Park provides a homey retreat after exploring its stunning trails. Remember to reserve your campsite in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred location.

Wrapping Up

The untamed beauty of Denali National Park awaits you. Whether you’re an experienced hiker ready for the next challenge or a family looking for a serene nature walk, these top five trails offer an enriching and memorable experience. Happy hiking and secure your RV rental for Denali National Park today!

FAQs

Q: Do I need a permit to hike in Denali National Park?

A: Denali does not require a permit. However, if you plan to backcountry camp, a permit is needed. Always check the latest park regulations before your visit.

Q: Is wildlife commonly seen on these trails? 

A: Yes, Denali National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never feed animals.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike in Denali? 

A: The hiking season in Denali usually runs from late May to early September. However, weather can be unpredictable, and trail conditions vary, so it’s important to check the current conditions before your hike.

Q: Are there guided hiking tours in Denali National Park? 

A: Yes, there are several guided hiking options in Denali, ranging from nature walks near the visitor center to multi-day backpacking expeditions. These guided tours can provide a wealth of information about the park’s ecology and history.

Q: What should I bring on my hike in Denali National Park? 

A: Always carry a map and compass, extra food and water, rain gear and extra clothing, a first aid kit, a knife or multi-tool, a headlamp or flashlight, fire starters, and a whistle. Consider bear-resistant food containers and bear spray due to the park’s grizzly population.