Although Denali is not accessible in wintertime, a visit during summertime can be a very rewarding experience. The wildlife in Denali is copious. The larger species include moose, black and grizzly bears and caribou, which often wander into the northern areas of the state park. Wolves, though rarely seen, are present in much of the park. Smaller and more obscure species that are present include lynx, red fox, coyote, otter, snowshoe hare and red and flying squirrel. Other species include muskrat, mink, beaver and ermine.
Although there are numerous lodges and alpine inns in the Denali region, there are just a handful of hunting-cabin-type accommodations. Alaskan Spruce Cabins (aksprucecabins.com) is just a few minutes from the entrance to the National Park, and the cabins are fitted with the usual amenities. Denali Country Ranch (saddletrailsnorth.com) is a self-sufficient outpost running on the basics and offering cabin accommodations. The Denali Grizzly Bear Resort (denaligrizzlybear.com) has a variety of cabins, some of which have the usual amenities while others are of a more rustic nature. Juhl House (juhlhouse.com) is another establishment with cabins for rental and is located just to the north of the entrance to the National Park.
In spite of its relevant seclusion from mainline America, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied, whether you are looking for an adventure type of activity or a more leisurely pastime. Mount McKinley is a mountaineer's dream, and rock climbers will also find plenty of opportunities in the region. There's white-water rafting in the area, jeep tours and pony trekking. Talkeetna Areo Services (talkeetnaaero.com) can organize an aerial tour of the park and even a glacier landing. Golfers will welcome the Black Diamond Restaurant and Golf Course (blackdiamondgolf.com) near the Visitor Center at Healy. Fly fishing for trout and salmon in the local rivers completes the picture.
Perhaps the greatest consideration when traveling to Denali is the climate and weather. First, the road to Denali is closed from October to mid-May, and when it is open it is a rough road, so you'll need to be driving a 4x4 at the very least. Remember that it can snow in Alaska at any time of the year. You could start out from Anchorage in bright sunshine and end up in a blizzard, although this is rare. Check on the forecasts and be prepared with emergency supplies.
