Experience a hands-on, educational hiking tour with Denali Backcountry Guides in Meppen, Illinois. This 4-hour adventure highlights native wildlife, plants, and streams with expert guides who tailor the experience for all skill levels.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness, able to hike uneven terrain and cross streams.
Wildlife
History
The region’s natural landscapes include areas historically used by Indigenous peoples and pioneer settlers.
Conservation
Guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles to keep the local ecosystem healthy and undisturbed.
Denali Backcountry Guides
Experience a hands-on, educational hiking tour with Denali Backcountry Guides in Meppen, Illinois. This 4-hour adventure highlights native wildlife, plants, and streams with expert guides who tailor the experience for all skill levels.
Denali Backcountry Guides is an outdoor guiding company based in Meppen, Illinois, specializing in guided hikes and interpretive walking tours focused on the Denali region. The company offers a range of experiences designed for varying fitness levels, from family-friendly walking tours to strenuous multi-hour backcountry hikes led by experienced naturalist guides. Trips include 3- to 5-hour options that explore boreal forest, sub-alpine tundra, taiga, glacier topology, and wildlife-rich areas near the Nenana River and Denali National Park.
Guides with Denali Backcountry Guides provide narrated interpretation of geology, botany, and human history, and they tailor routes to group interests and abilities. Small group sizes and a focus on safety and environmental stewardship help ensure meaningful, educational outings. Several tours operate on improved trails, while more advanced adventures include off-trail terrain and significant elevation gain, with explicit descriptions of difficulty to set clear expectations.
The business emphasizes factual interpretation and responsible backcountry practices, giving visitors a memorable and informed experience of Alaska’s wilderness. Denali Backcountry Guides coordinates logistics such as timing for train departures when required, and notes when trips may operate just outside national park boundaries for access to varied terrain. Reviews and repeat bookings reflect consistent guide knowledge and thoughtful trip design. For travelers seeking guided Denali hiking tours, walking tours, or naturalist-led adventures, Denali Backcountry Guides offers a reliable local option focused on education, safety, and immersive wilderness experiences.
Bookings include clear pre-trip information, recommended gear lists, weather guidance, and on-trail etiquette to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety.
Tours Offered
6
Range of guided Denali trips
Terrain Covered
Forest to Tundra
Boreal, taiga, alpine areas
Small Groups
Max 7
Naturalist walks limited to seven
Trip Durations
3–5 hours
Short walks to full hikes
Select the Denali excursion that matches fitness level and interests — secure a guided experience focused on interpretation, safety, and memorable landscapes.
Bring sturdy hiking shoes
Expect varied terrain including rocky paths and stream crossings requiring good traction.
Carry water and snacks
The 4-hour hike requires staying hydrated and energized, especially during warm weather.
Dress in layers
Weather can shift quickly; layering helps adjust to changing temperatures during your hike.
Bring insect repellent
Bugs can be active during warmer months, so pack repellant to stay comfortable on the trail.
Hiking boots
Provides stability and protection on uneven or rocky trails.
Water bottle or hydration pack
Ensures you stay hydrated throughout the 4-hour hike.
Insect repellent
Keeps bugs at bay during warmer months.
spring
Layered clothing
Allows adapting to shifting temperatures during the day.