National Parks by State
a white colored sheep standing on a mountainside overlooking a green valley

Photo: NPS Photo / Nathan Kostegian

Denali National Park & Preserve

Alaska

Denali is six million acres of wild land, bisected by one ribbon of road. Travelers along it see the relatively low-elevation taiga forest give way to high alpine tundra and snowy mountains, culminating in North America's tallest peak, 20,310' Mount McKinley. Wild animals large and small roam un-fenced lands, living as they have for ages. Solitude, tranquility and wilderness await.

Entrance fee

$15 per vehicle (7 days)

Campgrounds

See official site

Dogs allowed?

Varies, see below

Are dogs allowed at Denali?

Pet rules at Denali vary by area. Read the official pet policy on nps.gov before your visit. In most national parks, pets are limited to developed areas and must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Can you camp at Denali?

Camping options vary; check the park's official site for current campground availability and backcountry permits.

Entrance fees

  • Entrance - Per Person: $15.00

    Denali charges an entrance fee year-round. Youth age 15 or younger are free. For people age 16 or older, the $15 entrance fee provides a 7-day entrance permit. Be prepared to show your receipt or pass (digital or physical) if requested by park staff.

Visiting several parks this year? The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entrance fees at all national parks.

Things to do

Arts and CultureAstronomyStargazingBikingCampingBackcountry CampingCar or Front Country CampingGroup CampingRV CampingClimbingMountain ClimbingDog Sledding

Weather

Summer is typically cool and wet, with highs typically in the upper 50s to low 60s, and lows in the 40s. On occasion, summer highs reach the low 80s, though this is rare. Snow can fall any month of the year, so be prepared for chilly weather even in summer. Fall colors emerge on the alpine tundra in August and in the low valleys in early September. Winter generally starts in mid-September, with temps often getting down to -40 by January. Spring is a short season in April / May, with highs above freezing.

FAQ: Denali

Are dogs allowed at Denali?

Pets are generally allowed only in limited areas of Denali. Check the official pet policy for exact rules.

Can you camp at Denali?

Camping options vary; check the park's official site for current campground availability and backcountry permits.

How much does it cost to enter Denali?

Entrance - Per Person: $15.00. Denali charges an entrance fee year-round. Youth age 15 or younger are free. For people age 16 or older, the $15 entrance fee provides a 7-day entrance permit. Be prepared to show your receipt or pass (digital or physical) if requested by park staff.

What states is Denali National Park & Preserve in?

Denali National Park & Preserve is located in Alaska.

More national parks