There are so many beautiful hikes in Alaska that it can be hard to narrow your choice down to just one for the day. The Savage River Loop Trail in Denali National Park is a fun, easy hike that follows along a beautiful river cutting through the mountains. This hike is good for many ages and abilities, so everyone in your family can enjoy themselves.

There's a wonderful 2.1 mile hike in Denali National Park that is accessible to many skill levels.
Derek Gilbert / AllTrails
The Savage River Loop Trail in Denali National Park is one of the easiest hikes you'll find, and the views are incredibly rewarding.
It’s one of the best hikes in Denali National Park that I’ve done. And it’s easy enough for a family to hike!
Megan McDonald / Only In Your State
The trail is nicely packed dirt and rocks, although it can get muddy if it's raining.
Shashank Singhai / AllTrails
The end of the trail loops around on a bridge, and you'll follow the trail back on the far side of the river. You can start the loop in either direction, depending on where you would like to travel first.
There's not much elevation gain to ascend on the trail.
Laurie Pastor / AllTrails
You'll only climb around 413' throughout the whole trail, unless you explore further. This makes it easy for the smallest members of your group to keep up.

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I also think it’s probably one of the easiest hikes in Denali National Park. We finished it fairly quickly.
Megan McDonald / Only In Your State
The sights are absolutely beautiful along the way!
There are tons of wildlife around this area, so keep watch for some interesting animals.
Emily S / AllTrails
You may see Dall Sheep, marmots, Arctic ground squirrels, caribou, and possibly even a grizzly bear! Make sure to bring your bear spray and keep an eye out for the many creatures you may encounter.
If you want, you can continue on hiking up to the mountain ridge to make the hike a little harder.
Derek Gilbert / AllTrails
The elevation gain increases rapidly, so be prepared for a steeper section of trail, but one that will reward you with incredible views. Or you can just loop around and return back to the parking lot on the other side of the river.
Accessing this trail is easy, as you can drive all the way in to the Savage River Loop Trailhead.
Daniel Mitchell / AllTrails
This is the last turnoff that a personal vehicle can access on the Denali Park Road, and it is located around mile 15. There's plenty of parking and even outhouses for your use at the Savage River Loop Trailhead.
With stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and fun touches like a beautiful bridge, it's hard to find someone who doesn't love this hike.
Kimberly Nelson / AllTrails
If you're in Denali National Park this summer, make sure to add this trail to your summer hiking list.

Have you ever hiked the Savage River Loop Trail in Denali National Park? What did you think? Are you going to hike it this year? Let us know in the comments below! And if you’re going hiking, don’t forget the ultimate hiking packing list!

If you’re looking for more great trails to get on this summer, These 20 Trails In Alaska Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places.

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The Savage River Loop Trail in Denali National Park

Megan McDonald | December 13, 2023

How long is Savage River Loop Trail?

The Savage River Loop Trail, located in Denali National Park, Alaska, is a 2.1-mile loop trail. This information is according to AllTrails, a popular resource for trail information. The trail features a modest elevation gain of 364 feet, making it a manageable and scenic route for hikers of various skill levels.

What are the easiest hikes in Denali National Park?

Several easy hikes in Denali National Park offer breathtaking views and enjoyable experiences for hikers of all levels. Here are some of the easiest hikes:

  • Horseshoe Lake Trail: This 2-mile loop trail begins near the Denali Visitor Center. It's a popular and easy trail, starting as a wide flat path but eventually including a steep uphill walk, descending down to the lakeshore. The trail loops around the lake, offering views of nature’s wilderness​​​.
  • McKinley Station Trail: A short 1.6-mile out-and-back hike, it connects the Denali Visitor Center to the Riley Creek Campground, meandering alongside Hines and Riley Creeks​​​.
  • Meadow View Trail: This short trail connects the Roadside and Rock Creek Trails, forming a loop that starts and ends at the visitor center. It offers great views of mountains to the southeast​.
  • Morino Trail: Only 0.4 miles long, this trail is easy with minimal ascent, taking about 30 minutes to complete. It starts behind the Visitor Center and leads to the location of the original Morino Roadhouse​​.
  • Spruce Forest Loop: A 0.4-mile loop trail through the forest behind the Visitor Center. It's an easy hike with minimal ascent, perfect for a quick 30-minute walk. The Spruce Forest Trail can be combined with the Morino Trail and McKinley Station Trail for a longer hike
  • Savage River Loop Trail: A 2.1-mile loop trail in Denali National Park, Alaska. This trail is known for its minimal elevation gain, making it a manageable and scenic route for hikers of various skill levels

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