Denali National Park is an incredible place to visit all year long, but especially in the winter season. And now that the Denali Park Road has reopened on February 24th, 2023, to Mountain Vista, on Mile 12.7, travelers can take their car into the backcountry to see winter in Denali up close!
Denali National Park, located in the heart of Alaska, is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.
While many people visit the park in the summer months to enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife, there is plenty to do in Denali National Park in the winter as well. There are so many things you can do off Denali Park Road, specifically at Mountain Vista!
Mountain Vista is located at mile 12 on the Denali Park Road, and it is a great place to stop and enjoy the views of Denali and the surrounding mountains.
In the winter months, the road is usually closed to private vehicles, but the road reopened to Mile 12.7, or Mountain Vista, on February 24th, 2023. Pedestrians can continue to travel the road farther on, but cars will have to end their journey in the parking lot there.
One of the best ways to explore Denali National Park in the winter is on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
There are several trails around Mountain Vista that are perfect for these activities. Snowshoeing and skiing offer a great way to get exercise and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the park. Make sure you plan for wintry conditions driving out to Mountain Vista.
Another popular activity in Denali National Park in the winter is dog sledding.
Stop off about 3 miles into the park to stop at the Denali National Park mushing kennels, which are open to the public Saturdays and Sundays during the winter from 1-4 pm. Other companies offer sled dog rides inside Denali National Park.
While some of the park's wildlife hibernates during the winter months, there are still plenty of animals to see in Denali National Park.
Wolves, moose, and caribou are commonly seen in the park in the winter, and you may also spot foxes, lynx, and other animals. Mountain Vista is a great spot to view wildlife, as it offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
No trip to Denali National Park in the winter is complete without seeing the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights.
Mountain Vista is a great place to view the Northern Lights, as it is located away from the light pollution of nearby towns. On clear nights, the Aurora Borealis can be seen dancing across the sky, providing a truly breathtaking experience.
While many people think of Denali National Park as a summer destination, there is plenty to do in the park in the winter months.
Whether you enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, wildlife viewing, or Aurora Borealis viewing, Mountain Vista is a great place to start your adventure in the park. So bundle up, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the beauty of Denali National Park in the winter.
Have you ever visited the Denali Park Road in the winter? What did you think? Did you love it? Let us know in the comments below!
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