The city of Anchorage is a gateway to some of Alaska’s most stunning landscapes, the primary one being Denali National Park. Home to North America’s tallest mountain, Denali is a bucket-list item for many outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a five-hour drive from Anchorage, so to make the most of your trip, we recommend spending a few days exploring both Anchorage and Denali!
The team at Incredible Adventures knows this corner of the United States like the back of our hands through our Tours from Anchorage. We’ve created this guide to the top things to do in Anchorage and Denali National Park, from cultural experiences to epic flightseeing tours. Keep reading for our suggestions, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about our trips!
Best Things to Do in Anchorage
Discover the Alaska Native Heritage Center
As the only statewide educational center that reflects all Alaskan cultures, the Alaska Native Heritage Center is a must-see in Anchorage. When you visit, you’ll learn about 10,000 years of Native history and traditions. Walk through the Halls of Culture and meet Alaskan artists as they demonstrate their craft, explore authentic dwellings, and join the fun at the Gathering Place for dancing, games, and storytelling!
Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Located an hour from Anchorage along the scenic Seward Highway, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a sanctuary for the region’s most iconic species, such as bears, bison, wolves, reindeer, musk oxen, and moose. Many of the animals at the center have been orphaned or injured, and have been offered a new home in this near-natural habitat. You can observe these animals up close or join guided tours, even feeding the moose by hand!
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a highlight of the Seward Highway, which you can learn more about with our blog: Anchorage to Seward: The Perfect Alaska Road Trip.
Spot Whales at Beluga Point
Another unforgettable experience along the Seward Highway is Beluga Point. This is one of the best spots to see beluga whales as they follow salmon runs in Turnagain Arm. The prime time to see them is during the summer months, especially in July and August. In addition to whale watching, you may also get to witness the unique tidal bores that rush through the inlet with the changing tides!
Explore Chugach State Park
Surrounding Anchorage is one of the largest state parks in the United States, Chugach State Park. Spanning nearly 500,000 acres, the park incorporates mountains, glaciers, and lakes. A must-do while in Anchorage is to hike Flattop Mountain, the most climbed mountain in Alaska. There are routes suitable for all abilities, but if you want to go to the top, expect to climb 1,500 feet! On a clear day, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Anchorage, Cook Inlet, and even Denali.
Besides Flattop Mountain, other popular activities you can enjoy in the park include kayaking on Eklutna Lake, camping in the wilderness, or visiting the stunning glaciers.
Go Skiing at Alyeska Resort
In winter, one of the best things to do in Anchorage is to go skiing. Just outside of the city, Alyeska Resort in Girdwood is the premier ski destination in Alaska. It’s home to numerous runs ideal for all levels, but experienced skiers will flock to experience the North Face, North America’s longest continuous double black diamond run. In summer, you can hike the North Face Trail instead of skiing, or take the aerial tram for breathtaking mountain views.
Best Things to Do in Denali National Park
Hike Savage River Loop
One of the best hikes in Denali National Park is the Savage River Loop, a scenic and relatively easy 2.1 mile trail that takes just over one hour to complete. You’ll follow the river through the valley, and may even spot Dall sheep, marmots, and caribou. This is a great hike for the whole family!
Take a Flightseeing Tour over Denali
For a truly awe-inspiring experience, take a flightseeing tour over Denali! As you fly over the mountains, you’ll get a true sense of the enormity of Denali and its varied landscapes. A particular highlight is flying over the glaciers, and some tours even land on them, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand on the ice!
Denali National Park is one of our picks for our Alaska Travel Bucket List. Read our blog for more amazing destinations!
Go Dog Sledding in Denali
Dog sledding is a quintessential experience in Denali. The park is home to the only sled dog kennel in the entire National Park Service! You can visit the kennels and meet the friendly canines or even watch a dog sledding demo. If you want to go mushing yourself, you can bring your own dogs and go sledding through the snow!
Spot the Denali Wildlife
Throughout Denali, you’ll have the opportunity to spot some of the most iconic Alaskan wildlife. The park is home to Alaska’s “Big Five”: grizzly bears, moose, wolves, Dall sheep, and caribou. For the best chance of seeing these animals, join the Tundra Wilderness Bus Tour, where your driver-naturalist guide will take you deep into the park and follow the movement of wildlife.
Whitewater Raft on the Nenana River
Looking for a unique experience of Denali? Whitewater rafting on the Nenana River offers a thrilling way to explore the rugged landscape. The river offers a range of options, from mild floats on Class I and II rapids perfect for families to adrenaline-pumping Class IV rapids for adventure lovers!
Explore Alaska with Incredible Adventures!
Ready to see Anchorage and Denali for yourself? Then join one of our incredible tours! Our 6-Day Alaskan Highlights will take you from Anchorage to Denali and the Kenai Fjords for an unparalleled excursion into the wilderness. Immerse yourself in Alaska’s pristine landscapes, climb mountains in Denali, and go sailing down the fjords for an unmatched adventure. To learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us!
