Discover the wild side of Alaska with a private backcountry walking tour in Denali National Park. Experience stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and expert-guided adventure away from the crowds. Read on to learn what makes this trip truly special!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good endurance and be comfortable walking on uneven terrain for several hours.
Wildlife
History
Denali National Park was established in 1917 to protect this unique wilderness and the iconic Denali mountain, formerly known as Mount McKinley.
Conservation
Denali Adventure Tours is committed to eco-friendly practices, minimizing environmental impact, and promoting conservation efforts within the park.
Denali Adventure Tours
Discover the wild side of Alaska with a private backcountry walking tour in Denali National Park. Experience stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and expert-guided adventure away from the crowds. Read on to learn what makes this trip truly special!
Denali Adventure Tours operates in Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, delivering a wide range of guided outdoor experiences that showcase Denali’s glaciers, rivers, and mountain vistas.
The company offers river adventures like the Scenic Wilderness Float on the Yanert Fork and Nenana Rivers and the Canyon Whitewater Trip — a 2-hour rafting run on the Nenana with over 10 Class III–IV rapids (including “Razorback” and “Royal Flush”) and both Oar Raft and Paddle Raft options.
Flightseeing options include the Denali Peak Experience with guaranteed window seats that approach within half a mile of Denali and glide over the Muldrow Glacier, plus a Denali Park Glacier Landing featuring a 15–20 minute glacier stop aboard a de Havilland Turbo Beaver. Helicopter offerings include Heli-Hiking to remote mountaintops and a Heli-Glacier Expedition with approximately 50 minutes of flight and 20 minutes on the Yanert Glacier.
Guided land options span a 2.5-hour Backcountry Walking Tour led by a naturalist to strenuous hikes like the Denali Interpretative Hike (5–6 miles with about 1,500 feet elevation gain) and a 4-hour Backcountry Wilderness Hike. An ATV Wilderness Adventure covers roughly 10 miles in about 1.5 hours.
All trips operate within Denali National Park and Preserve and are led by experienced guides familiar with local terrain, safety protocols, and interpretive natural history. Travelers should review age and fitness requirements for each trip (for example, Canyon Whitewater is suitable for ages 12 and up). Reservations are recommended for peak season to secure preferred dates and trip types.
Location
Denali National Park
Based in Alaska's premier park
Tours Offered
11
Range of guided adventures
Typical Durations
15 min – 5 hrs
Short flights to full-day hikes
Glacier Landings
Available
Includes Denali glacier stops
Reserve glacier landings, heli-hiking, whitewater trips, and scenic flights in Denali National Park — limited seats during peak season.
Wear layered clothing
Weather can change quickly in Denali's backcountry; dressing in layers keeps you comfortable throughout the hike.
Stay on designated trails
To protect delicate ecosystems and ensure safety, always stick to the marked hiking routes.
Carry sufficient water and snacks
Hydration and energy are key during longer hikes, so bring enough supplies for the entire trip.
Be mindful of wildlife
Maintain a respectful distance and avoid attracting animals by making noise and securing food.
Hiking Boots
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots provide the necessary support and traction for challenging terrain.
Weather-Resistant Jacket
A waterproof and windproof jacket helps stay dry and comfortable in unpredictable weather.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Layered Clothing System
Dressing in layers allows temperature regulation during varying conditions.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Daypack
A lightweight backpack to carry water, snacks, extra clothing, and essentials.