As one of the most popular national parks in Alaska, Denali is a must-see for anyone visiting the state.

The park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery globally and offers a variety of trails for hikers of all levels.

Established in 1917, Denali was created as a national preserve to protect the area’s wildlife.

Known for its six million acres of unspoiled wilderness and its variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, moose, Dall sheep, and wolves.

The highlight of the entire park is Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America, standing at a massive 20,310 feet.

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between late May and early September, when the weather is warmest and there is more daylight to enjoy.

Some incredible trails take you through the park’s stunning views and show off the beautiful landscape Denali offers.

Here are 5 of our favorite hikes you should take while visiting Denali National Park:

McKinley Station Trail

McKinley Station is the perfect trail if you want something easy to start your hiking adventure with. An added bonus if you are really into the park's history.

Mckinley trail brings you near the old park ranger station used back in the 1920s.

You can also see the railroad used to transport people and supplies into the park.

It’s a great place to see Dall sheep and caribou, while also getting up close to Riley Creek, the main water source for the park.

There are also some stunning views of Denali if the weather is clear.

Mckinley Station also takes you from Riley Creek campground to the visitors center so expect this trail to be busy.

Total Distance: 2.9 miles 

Elevation Grade: 374 feet 

Difficulty: Easy — Walking, Hiking, Trail Running

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• The park charges a fee to enter, but children 15 and under are free
• No dogs allowed on the trail

Horseshoe Lake Trail

Horseshoe lake is one of the most popular trails in Denali for a reason.

You will loop around a gorgeous view of all sides of Horseshoe lake, and depending on the time of the year you visit the trail; you can get a world-class look at the aurora borealis shining over the lake.

The trailhead starts at the Denali Visitor Centre, making it easily accessible either by walking to the trail or getting shuttled there by the park’s staff. 

This is a excellent  place to see beaver dams and lots of different birds.

You will be amazed at how untouched the water is at the lake — it often looks more like glass than water.

Total Distance: 2.11 miles 

Elevation Grade: 393 feet 

Difficulty: Easy — Walking, Hiking, Trail Running

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• The park charges a fee to enter, but children 15 and under are free
• No dogs allowed on the trail

Triple Lakes Trail

Get ready to hike to your heart's content on this long but enjoyable trail.

Triple Lakes will take you on a tour of, you guessed it, three different lakes.

There are some excellent places to fish along the trail and maybe sights of some beavers swimming around.

The first lake you will come to is the largest of the three, Lower Twin Lake. 

You will then hike to Upper Twin Lake, and after taking in the beauty, the trail will lead you to the last and smallest lake, Caribou Lake.

We don't recommend kids or those not in good shape to attempt this hike; it is one of the longest in the park, with upwards of 10 hours needed to complete it, and has a ton of elevated hill hiking.

Total Distance: 18.5 miles 

Elevation Grade: 3690 feet 

Difficulty: Hard — Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• The park charges a fee to enter, but children 15 and under are free
• No dogs allowed on the trail
• Bring plenty of water and proper hiking gear as this trail is known to be challenging.
• Be aware that bears are seen on this trail regularly

Mount Thorofare Ridge Loop

This is one of the most beautiful trails in Denali, and it will take you along the park's east side.

You will start at Thorofare pass and hike to Mount Healy Overlook for incredible views.

Next, descend into a valley full of wildflowers with a chance of seeing some Dall sheep and caribou.

The trail will take you along the edge of a valley with stunning views of Mount Denali, and you can take in how large this mountain really is. 

While not as long as Triple Lakes, be prepared for some difficult hill climbing that will take your breath away.

Total Distance: 4.10 miles 

Elevation Grade: 1666 feet 

Difficulty: Hard — Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• The park charges a fee to enter, but children 15 and under are free
• No dogs allowed on the trail
• Bring plenty of water, and proper hiking gear as this trail is known to be challenging
• This trail is mostly unmarked, so be sure to have a physical or digital map handy in case you get lost
• Some rock scrambling is required on this trail
• Be aware that bears are seen on this trail regularly.

 

Mount Healy Overlook Trail

If you are looking for 1 view to get a sense of the Alaskan landscape, look no further than Mount Healy Overlook.

The mountain is named after John J. Healy, North American Trading and Transportation Company manager.

This moderate trail can require some stabilizing poles or microspikes in your hiking shoes in the winter months, but the view is well worth it.

There is a breathtaking look over the park where you can spot different wildlife from above and even some rare wildflowers that only grow on the highest parts of the 

Alaskan mountains. 

Total Distance: 6.89 miles 

Elevation Grade: 2483 feet 

Difficulty: Moderate — Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• The park charges a fee to enter, but children 15 and under are free
• No dogs allowed on the trail
• Bring plenty of water, and proper hiking gear as this trail is known to be challenging
• Hiking poles or micro shoe spikes are recommended during the winter months
• Be aware that bears are seen on this trail regularly

No matter the trail you choose to hike while at Denali, you will have an incredible experience.

The views are unlike anything else in the world, and you have a good chance to spot some wildlife.

Remember to come prepared with the proper gear and maps, and most importantly, enjoy your time in one of America's most beautiful national parks.