NPS Photo / Alex Vanderstuyf
This subarctic wilderness is home to more than 1,500 species of vascular plants, mosses and lichens. They form the foundation of the park's ecosystems and define the habitat characteristics for all of the more famous and recognizable denizens of Denali National Park such as moose, wolves, eagles, caribou and grizzly bears. Without the rich and diverse vegetation communities that blanket the park landscape, this area would be entirely barren of animal life. Therefore, preserving the precious botanical resources of the park is central to conserving and maintaining the entire intact subarctic ecosystem here. Interested in more information? Check out the Science and Scholarship Resources page to find more recommended resources about vegetation and other research topics from the park. 
Efforts to understand where and why plants grow are critical to predicting where they will exist in the future.
Identify a new-to-you flower, or learn more about a plant you already recognize with this free mobile app and electronic field guide.
One of the great joys of botany in Denali is the intact plant communities. Discover more about how Denali protects its vegetation.
Denali is a living laboratory. Discover more about plant-related research that has taken place in the park.
Vegetation Science Stories |
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Last updated: September 24, 2025