Denali

Park Ranger Programs and Field Seminars

 

Note: Ranger programs in Denali are mainly offered in the summer, from mid-May through mid-September. Some weekend ranger walks and special programs are available in fall, winter, or spring—check our event calendar to see if anything is scheduled for when you plan to visit.

Whether you seek a short interaction or plan to fill multiple days attending these programs, park rangers are here to help you understand, appreciate and take care of your park.

With the exception of Discovery Hikes, all ranger hikes, sled dog demonstrations, campground programs and other talks in Denali are free and do not require you to sign up in advance. Discovery Hikes are technically free, but will likely require you to purchase a bus ticket and you must sign up for them in advance.

Ranger Programs

 
male ranger standing in front of several dogs while speaking to a group of people
Sled Dog Demonstrations

Learn about the historic and modern uses of Alaskan huskies in Denali.

a female ranger shows a group of people an object on a trail
Guided Walks

Join a ranger to explore the boreal forest on a walk from the Denali Visitor Center.

a female ranger speaking to a group of people seated around her in a forest clearing
Ranger Talks

Join a ranger at a campground for short, informative talks on all kinds of Denali-related topics.

People walking through a brushy landscape
Off-Trail Discovery Hikes

If you will be here for several days, consider signing up at the visitor center for an off-trail ranger hike.

 

Accessibility

Please contact us if you have questions about accommodations for ranger programs that are not answered by this accessibility information.

American Sign Language

Our goal is to provide American Sign Language interpretation, when requested, for all ranger programs. Denali is very remote, however, so please request ASL interpretation as early as possible and at least two weeks in advance to ensure that we can accommodate your request.

Other Naturalist and Education Programs

Our partner non-profit association, Alaska Geographic, also offers a variety of programs for visitors. There is a fee and registration is required for Field Courses and the Roadside Naturalist program. Family Hour and the Speaker Series are free and no registration is required for these programs.

 
A group of 10 people stand on the edge of a gravel road in front of a river and mountains.
Roadside Naturalist

Join a Science Educator for a unique, small-group, educational experience, exploring the park road by van and walking through wilderness.

A group of adults stands in the boreal forest looking at plants on the ground.
Multi-Day Field Courses

These active learning vacations immerse participants in intensive wilderness experiences led by experts in a variety of different fields.

Kids work on coloring pages together around a table.
Family Hour

Educators lead nature walks, guided programs, touch tables, and educational games for families of all ages.

A speaker presents a powerpoint presentation to a crowd.
Summer Speaker Series

Approximately once a week throughout the summer, speakers will lecture and answer questions on their scientific research in Denali.

 

Ranger Program Schedules

As you look through the calendar below, keep the following notes in mind:

  • Getting to the kennels for a sled dog demonstration involves arriving at the Denali Visitor Center bus stop 40 minutes before the demo begins. There is no parking available at the kennels, so park at the visitor center (if you have a car) and ride a free bus to the demonstration. Alternatively, you can walk on the Roadside Hiking Trail (2 miles, ~1 hour) from the visitor center to the kennels.
  • Most ranger-led programs occur daily from mid-May through September. Some weekend ranger programs are available in fall, winter, and spring, and special programs or events may occur at any time.
  • Additional programs may be offered each day. Look for fliers or inquire at the Denali Visitor Center for ranger chats, additional guided walks, and special activities.
 

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Last updated: November 6, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 9
Denali Park, AK 99755

Phone:

907 683-9532
A ranger is available 9 am to 4 pm daily (except on major holidays). If you reach the voicemail, please leave a message and we'll call you back as soon as we finish with the previous caller.

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