Due to a landslide near Pretty Rocks, the Denali Park Road into the national park will not be fully open in 2022, prompting changes to how visitors can access the park.
The road will be open for visitor transportation as far as Mile 43 of the 92-mile road. The National Parks Service has announced that up to 25 transit buses a day will be on the road during peak season (June 16-August 17). Up to 24 long tours and 39 short tours will be offered daily. Additionally, the free Savage River Shuttle will depart the park entrance every 15 minutes. The free Riley Creek Shuttle will loop around the entrance area continuously.
The National Parks Service has also announced some changes to popular visitor experiences within the park, due to the road closure.
The Tundra Wilderness Tour will operate a modified tour. The 5 to 5 1/2-hour tour will turn around at Mile 43. As part of the tour, there will be a 20-minute interpretive walk and talk at the historic East Fork Cabin. Wildlife viewing will be offered in Igloo Canyon and Sable Pass, and a snack box will be provided.
The Denali History Tour is 4 1/2 to 5 hours long and will turn around at Mile 17. There will be a 30-minute theater viewing of "Across Time and Tundra" and a 20-minute cultural talk at Primrose. At the historic Savage Cabin, there will be a half hour interpretive walk and talk. A snack will be provided.
The Denali Backcountry Adventure is a new tour offered by Alaska Collection by Pursuit, who owns and operates lodges and attractions across Alaska. The tour depart from Denali Cabins and follow the Denali Highway (not the Park Road) for 65 miles with narration provided by guides. A hearty lunch will be served at Alpine Creek Lodge. The trip includes stops for wildlife viewing and photography and will operate June 4-Sept. 16.
Pursuit is also offering an all-inclusive Denali experience with a helicopter trip to Denali Backcountry Lodge at Kantishna, featuring private cabins, seasonal cuisine and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Matanuska Glacier
