Home to the highest peak in North America, this national park is a place youโll never forget visiting! But before that, youโll need to learn a few things about where to stay in Denali!
So hop on this guide and find out whether you should stay inside or outside the park, which are the top lodging options in the park and the main tourist towns around it.
In short, Healy is the best area to stay near Denali, as itโs the closest town to the park (unless you are staying inside the park that is). In this post I will help you book the best accommodation for your budget!
By the way, Iโd highly recommend booking your hotels whether inside or outside of Denali, early! As with most national parks in the country, the accommodations sell out months in advance.
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Want to book right now? Then browse through this list of the best hotels, all located in Healy:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- Inside or outside Denali?
- Denaliโs Park Entrance
- 1. Where to stay inside Denali
- 2. Healy โ one of the best towns near Denali National Park
- 3. Fairbanks โ best place for an urban atmosphere
- 4. Talkeetna โ best place to stay in Denali on a budget
- 5. Trapper Creek โ where to stay in Denali for nature lovers
- 6. Cantwell โ where to stay in Denali for tranquility
- FAQs about where to stay in Denali
- Final thoughts
Hereโs a map that will help you visualize all the areas to stay in Denali that I will be talking about in this post:
- Denali National Park: inside the park
- Healy: near Denali National Park
- Fairbanks: for an urban atmosphere
- Talkeetna: on a budget
- Trapper Creek: for nature lovers
- Cantwell: for tranquility
Inside or outside Denali?
To help you decide on whether to stay inside or outside Denali National Park, I made these quick pros and cons tables, so letโs have a look:
Pros | Cons | |
Inside Denali | you donโt have to spend time out in traffic in the morning to get to the parkโ easy access to the parkโs attractions and wildlife | not many accommodations so prices are pretty high |
Outside Denali | cheaper accommodation, more availability for last-minute booking | might get some traffic on your way to Denali |
Denaliโs Park Entrance
The park has only one entrance, so on that side, itโs not as confusing as the other national parks that have so many entrances. There, youโll find the visitor center (map), where you can get your brochures, maps and ask any questions that you might have.
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1. Where to stay inside Denali
Planning to stay inside Denali National Park? Then youโll definitely want to check out this section where I included all the types of accommodations youโll find in the park.
1.1 Lodges
If you want to be comfy and sleep like a baby, then check out these lodges set inside the park:
NOTE: All these accommodations inside the park are only accessible by flight from the entrance of the park. Youโll find all the logistics regarding this on the official websites of the accommodations that I linked below.
- Camp Denali ($$$) โ offering views of the Denali and Alaska mountain range, this Denali National Park accommodation has an amazing location 2 miles (3 km) away from Wonder Lake (map) and it offers rooms with a rustic design, dining facilities and tons of guided and independent activities.
- Denali Backcountry Lodge ($$$) โ set parallel to the Denali Park Road (map) this gorgeous lodge offers fun activities from fishing to kayaking and biking! Youโll also find some spa facilities, an on-site restaurant and rooms that overlook the gorgeous scenery.
- Kantishna Roadhouse ($$$) โ this amazing lodge set on the banks of Moose Creek (map) offers rustic accommodations in the heart of Denali, dining facilities and activities inside the park.
- Skyline Lodge ($$$) โ a very intimate place with only 5 guest rooms where youโll get to relax after a day of exploring Denali. The accommodation offers dining on-site and rooms with a simple, rustic design.
1.2 Camps
For those who want to sleep under the stars, Iโve made this list with the best campgrounds in Denali:
The prices are from US$25 to US$50, per night:
- Riley Creek Campground โ set near Denaliโs visitor center, this campground offers a total of 142 spots for tents, vehicles and RVs, bathrooms, showers, food storage lockers and potable water.
- Savage River Campground โ open only between May and mid-September, this campground offers 32 sites, flush toilets as well as vault toilets and food storage lockers. There are no showers however and no cell phone reception.
- Sanctuary River Campground โ offering only 7 sites, this campground comes with food storage lockers and seasonal vault toilets. This campground is also open only during the summer (May to mid-September).
- Teklanika River Campground โ a great campground open only during the summer season that has 53 sites, food storage lockers, vault toilets and potable water.
2. Healy โ one of the best towns near Denali National Park
- Distance to the entrance: 20 min drive
Perfect for first-time travelers, the town of Healy is set only a 20 min drive away from the park entrance (map).
Healy offers a couple of great accommodations, restaurants, bars and even more wild spots that you can explore before heading out to the park.
Its easy access to Denali makes it one of the most sought-after places by tourists who want to stay outside the park so Iโd highly recommend booking your hotels here in advance.
NOTE: Denali National Park features a single road, known as Denali Park Road (map), or Park Road, which spans 92 miles (150 km). Private cars are only allowed past Mile 15, from there youโll have to use one of the park buses to explore around. You can learn more about this and check the prices on their official website.
There are a couple of hiking trails that you can check out in the town like Stampede Trailhead (map) and the Antler Ridge Trail (map). Plus, you also have the Nenana River going through the town, and you can actually go rafting there!
Most of the restaurants are set one next to the other, along the Parks Highway (map). If you want a bite before or after your visit, you can head to 49th State Brewing or Roseโs Cafe.
PRO TIP: For those who want to stay right near Denaliโs Visitor Center, you can check out the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge which is set only a 5 min drive away from it.
Tucked away between the trees, these comfortable accommodations are perfect for your stay in Denali, Alaska! Offering great amenities including free Wi-Fi, a kitchen, and BBQ facilities, the cabins will be the perfect place to relax and unwind in between park visits.
Other accommodation options in Healy
Some nice cabins, perfect for families and friend groups, that have a kitchen and a patio
This lodge offers all the amenities you need, including breakfast and free parking
With a rustic design this cabin offers sweeping views from the balcony and a backyard
Things to do in Healy
- Try whitewater rafting on the Nenana River
- Explore the Stampede Trailhead
- Enjoy a beer and some food at 49th State Brewing
- Go on a trip to explore Dora Peak (map)
- Have a cup of coffee at The Alaskan Coffee Bean (map)
- Take the kids to play at Mountains of Fun (map)
3. Fairbanks โ best place for an urban atmosphere
- Distance to the entrance: 2h drive
Set around a 2h drive away from Denaliโs entrance, Fairbanks is Alaskaโs 3rd largest city and a great place to stay for those whoโd prefer a more urban city.
NOTE: Before picking Fairbanks as your base, definitely consider the time that youโll spend driving. Youโll definitely have to leave early in the morning around 7AM to get to the park and probably return from Denali around 5PM, which will give you around 8h in the park. However if youโre traveling with the kids you might consider staying in a town like Healy, which is closer.
While in Fairbanks youโll find plenty of fun things to do and cool historic sites to discover.
Some places that you should check out while here are the Fairbanks Ice Museum, the Fairbanks Childrenโs Museum and the Golden Heart Plaza.
Youโre still in Alaska, so youโve got plenty of natural sites in cities like Fairbanks. One of the best ones is Creamerโs Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. Here youโll spot so many cute birds (Iโm sure the kids will love this one)!
The town is also home to the University of Alaska. If you have the time, go on a visit on the campus as you can visit some cool places like the Museum of the North and the Georgeson Botanical Garden (map).
PRO TIP: If youโre a lover of scenic train rides, definitely check out the Denali Star trains which have this amazing route that connects Anchorage and Fairbanks and that also stops in some other key spots like Wasilla, Talkeetna and Denali National Park. The views are absolutely incredible. Youโll pass by Denali Mountain, Cross Hurricane Gulch bridge and it even travels through Nenana River canyon.
Go for a swim in the indoor swimming pool and enjoy some relaxing time at this great hotel! The accommodation has comfortable rooms with modern designs and a flat-screen TV. They also offer breakfast, a free airport shuttle and free parking.
Other accommodation options in Fairbanks
A modern hotel that offers a buffet or an American breakfast and free parking
Chill out by the outdoor fireplace at this hostel that offers comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and free bikes
Stargaze at night in the yard at this cute cottage that has rooms for 3 guests and a river view
Things to do in Fairbanks
- Learn new things at the Museum of the North
- Explore the Pioneer Park (map)
- Visit the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
- Spot the cute birds at Creamerโs Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
- Check out the ice sculptures at Fairbanks Ice Museum
- Enjoy a delicious meal at Soba restaurant (map)
4. Talkeetna โ best place to stay in Denali on a budget
- Distance to the entrance: 2h 30 min
Set a 2h 30 min drive away from Denaliโs entrance, Talkeetna is a great place to stay near the park if youโre traveling on a budget.
NOTE: As I mentioned in the description of area number #3 Iโd recommend hitting the road super early if you set base in a town thatโs as far as this one. Consider leaving around 7AM or even a bit earlier if you know traffic will be bad.
Founded in the 20th century as a railroad town, Talkeetna is located at the confluence of 3 rivers.
The hiking areas near the Talkeetnaโs lakes are absolutely amazing and the views are just breathtaking. So before you head to Denali, make sure you explore the town for a bit and see what it has to offer.
Some really stunning trails that you should check out are the Talkeetna Lakes Trailhead (map) and Railroad Bridge Trail (map).
Back in the town area, you can visit the Historical Society, to learn more about the townโs past and have a look at the restaurants and cafes around, youโll probably be famished after all the walking and hiking!
I like how cozy this place looks, and it has so many amenities (including a tour desk and a bakery, yum)! Enjoy a delicious breakfast in the morning before you start your day in Talkeetna or go to Denali National Park. Thereโs also a game room so during the rainy days when you donโt feel like leaving the house, you can have some fun inside!
Other accommodation options in Talkeetna
Mingle with the guests in the picnic area and enjoy a barbecue at this lodge that offers free Wi-Fi
A nice guesthouse that offers rooms with shared and private bathrooms and free parking
This cabin looks straight from a fairytale! It has room for 2 guests and many amenities including a balcony
Things to do in Talkeetna
- Learn new things at the Talkeetna Historical Society
- Go for a hike around the Chulitna River (map)
- Enjoy a day of fishing at Christiansen Lake (map)
- Have a drink at Denali Brewpub
- Catch a sunset in Talkeetna Riverfront Park (map)
- Get some souvenirs from Talkeetna Gifts and Collectables (map)
5. Trapper Creek โ where to stay in Denali for nature lovers
- Distance to the entrance: 2h drive
Set across the Susitna River from Talkeetna, around a 2h drive away from Denaliโs entrance, Trapper Creek is an absolute heaven for all nature lovers!
Here you can enjoy some stunning views of the Denali mountain peak so make sure youโre camera-ready!
Trapper Creek also offers the most amazing natural surroundings. There are so many places to explore in the outdoors here that you wonโt know where to start. But worry not, Iโll help you with that!
One of them is the Susitna River, you can even rent kayaks and spend a few hours enjoying some peace and quiet!
Then youโll also find some hiking trails such as the Little Coal Creek Trail (map) and the Moose Flats Loop Trail (map).
Please keep in mind that Trapper Creek is a quiet town, you wonโt find any attractions and there arenโt many facilities like restaurants or bars.
Beautiful decor? Check! Great amenities? Check? The views? Absolutely amazing! This accommodation offers room for 4 guests and a great location on the banks of a lake. It also comes with a full kitchen, a dining area and a gorgeous patio.
Other accommodation options in Trapper Creek
A super nice house that comes with a kitchenette, a flat-screen Tv and a patio
Enjoy your morning coffee on the balcony of this Trapper Creek B&B that has cozy rooms and a garden
This fully-equipped home offers 2 rooms, a kitchen, a little patio and free parking
Things to do in Trapper Creek
- Have fun kayaking on Susitna River
- Explore the area around Scotty Lake (map) in Trapper Creek
- Buy souvenirs from the Trapper Creek Wal Mikes gift shop (map)
- Stop at Denali Mountains View Pullout (map) on Parks Highway to admire the views
6. Cantwell โ where to stay in Denali for tranquility
- Distance to the entrance: 30 min drive
Located a 30 min drive away from Denali National Parkโs entrance, Cantwell is a great town for people who want to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet during their trip!
Named after the Cantwell River this town was also established as a railroad community back in the 1920s (just like Talkeetna).
Besides offering easy access to Denali Park, Cantwell is also known for its dog mushing (sled dog racing) and fishing.
Another thing that puts Cantwell on the map is the fact that it has so many scenic spots! Youโll find most of them as you drive along Parks Highway (map) on the way to the National Park.
One of my favorites is the Pass Creek Scenic View (map), the mountain and river views are simply breathtaking.For those of you who are interested in sled dog tours, you can check out whatโs on at Wildthingz Dog Mushing (map). They organize different sled dog tours, which are super fun, especially if you want to see as much of the area as possible. And of course, youโll make some cute furry new friends! ๐
Enjoy a tranquil holiday in Cantwell while staying in this lodge thatโs surrounded by trees and which offers some beautiful views of Denali mountain! The accommodation has rooms equipped with coffee and tea makers plus a nice picnic area outside where you can chill after a long hike.
Other accommodation options in Cantwell
A great place that offers rooms with mountain views and free Wi-Fi
Youโre going to love this little home that has rustic design, a fire pit and a balcony
Relax all day long at this secluded cabin that offers lake access, a kitchen, and a balcony
Things to do in Cantwell
- Go on tour with Wildthingz Dog Mushing
- Stop at Pass Creek Scenic View
- Hike from the Windy Creek Trailhead (map)
- Grab a bite at Jam Jamโs Spot (map)
- Enjoy a sunset walk along the Cantwell Creek (map)
- Go out fishing with Denali Angler (map)
๐ Luxury price: | US$250 |
๐ต Mid-range: | US$180 |
๐๏ธ Budget: | US$130 |
๐ Best area: | Healy |
๐๏ธ Best luxury hotel: | Tri-Valley Cabins |
๐งณ Best mid-range hotel: | Alaskan Spruce Cabins |
๐ Best budget hotel: | Aurora Denali Lodge |
FAQs about where to stay in Denali
๐๏ธ Where do people stay in Denali National Park?
Usually, people stay in nearby towns like Healy (the closest town to Denali National Park), Fairbanks and Talkeetna or inside the park at one of the lodges or camping sites.
๐ Does Denali National Park have cabins?
No, Denali doesnโt have cabins but it does have some lodges like Camp Denali, Denali Backcountry Lodge.
๐ What is the best month to see Denali?
The best time to visit Denali National Park is from late May until mid-September. During this time, the weather is perfect, and shuttle buses can drive visitors into the wilderness.
โHow many days do you need in Denali National Park?
I recommend spending 3 or 4 days in Denali, especially if your accommodation is a bit further away from the park as it will take you longer to get there.
๐๏ธ What is the closest city to Denali?
One of the best cities near Denali National Park is Fairbanks, the closest big city to it, which is a 2h drive away from the park.
๐ก Where to stay inside Denali National Park?
You can stay at one of the lodges like Kantishna Roadhouse and Skyline Lodge or in one of the campsites like Riley Creek Campground and Savage River Campground.
โบ Where can I stay near Denali National Park Visitors Center?
You can stay in the Riley Creek Campground which is only a 30 min walk away, or you can stay in Healy, which is a 20 min drive away, in one of the hotels like Tri-Valley Cabins.
๐ Do you need a car in Denali?
Since cars are allowed only up until Mile 15 of the Denali Park Road (map) and from there take one of the buses, Iโd say you can get around Denali without a car.
Final thoughts
What a place! I hope that this guide on where to stay in Denali, helped you decide which town to pick or which lodge if you want to stay inside the park.
Iโd recommend, no matter which option you pick, to book your spot in advance. Everything sells out pretty fast here and itโs better to secure your place early.
If youโre still not sure which hotel to choose, here are my 2 top-rated favorite accommodations, both set in Healy, the closest town to the parkโs entrance:
- Tri-Valley Cabins โ fully-equipped rustic cabins that offer free parking
- Alaskan Spruce Cabins โ some great accommodations with a terrace
Have fun exploring this amazing park and as always, if you have any questions, just drop them below in the comment section.
Safe travels,
Victoria
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