The best walks and hikes in Denali State Park
4.7
(23)
217
hikers
13
hikes
Hiking in Denali State Park provides a diverse Alaskan wilderness experience across 325,240 acres, situated between the Talkeetna Mountains and the Alaska Range. The park's terrain transitions from dense spruce and birch forests at lower elevations to expansive alpine tundra. Notable features include the 35-mile-long Curry and Kesugi Ridges, numerous lowland streams, and unobstructed views of Denali.
Best hiking trails in Denali State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Curry Ridge loop β Denali National Park, a 8.2β¦
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.5
(2)
16
hikers
8.96km
02:20
50m
70m
The Byers Lake Loop Trail offers a moderate hiking experience, covering 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with a gentle 179 feet (55 metres) of elevation gain. You can typically complete thisβ¦
48.0km
14:43
1,540m
1,710m
Embark on the K'esugi Ridge Trail, a difficult multi-day hike spanning 29.8 miles (48.0 km) with a significant elevation gain of 5044 feet (1537 metres). This route, estimated to takeβ¦
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1.00km
00:16
0m
10m
Embark on the easy Moose Flats Loop Trail, a delightful hike spanning 0.6 miles (1.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 14 feet (4 metres). You can comfortablyβ¦
4.9
(9)
74
hikers
13.1km
03:48
340m
340m
Hike the moderate 8.2-mile Curry Ridge Trail in Denali State Park for panoramic views of Denali and the Alaska Range.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
9.73km
03:24
540m
540m
Hike the moderate Little Coal Creek Trail in Denali State Park for expansive views of the Alaska Range and Denali on clear days.
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Tips from the Community
This lake is absolutely gorgeous, and very popular in the summer, with non-motorized watercraft for rent, a loop trail all the way around the lake, and a massive campground just steps away. The west end is the nicest for walking (and everything else); the east end of the lake gets quite marshy. And, please be aware that summer brings hordes of mosquitoes, and bear sightings are extremely common here in most seasons.
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I think this might be the largest campground in Denali State Park. It's no secret that you can pick lots of berries here in the fall, and it's just a quick walk from the nearby lake. However, it's also no secret that the marshy ground in this area makes the campground and neighboring lake VERY buggy (think hordes of mosquitoes) in the summer. Bear sightings are also extremely common here in almost every season, because they like berries β and Byers Lake β too.
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This stretch of trail doesn't seem to be on the official trail maps, but it's well-used as a part of the Curry Ridge hike, completing a nice hike at the eastern end of the official trail. The views alternate between peeks at the nearby lake and expansive views across the Chulitna River Valley. If the weather is clear enough, you may see Denali looming on the other side of the valley.
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This pretty little lake doesn't have a name β at least, not an official one β but it's a key feature on the Curry Ridge Trail. You can follow an obvious footpath down to the edge of the water, or just enjoy the view from a knobby overlook point on the main trail. During the summer a pair of loons usually nests here; listen for their lonely, mournful cries and "laughter" drifting over the water.
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From here you can start the Curry Ridge Trail, a relatively mild trek (by Alaska standards, anyway) that offers some great views of Denali in the distance, and a visit to a pleasant, unnamed backcountry lake that is home to loons in the summer. As of 2024 this trail is newly connected to the famous Kesugi Ridge Trail, too, but some portions of that connector still require real routefinding. They'll be filled in by hard-working trail crews soon.
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The Little Coal Creek is the northernmost access trail for the 29-mile Kesugi Ridge Trail, one of Alaska's most stunningly beautiful thru-hikes. But this trail also makes a fine day hike in its own right, and once you break out of treeline the views are nothing short of spectacular. The high point of the ridge ascent makes a good turnaround point, before the trail turns south and descends toward a boulder-hopping creek crossing. If you want to do the entire Kesugi Ridge thru-hike, be prepared for sudden and sometimes violent stormy weather on the exposed ridge. You'll need to set up a vehicle shuttle too, or do an Internet search for shuttle services; they are sometimes available.
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This beautiful lake is located in Denali State Park and can be reached by taking the Kesugi Ridge Trail. It is possible to bivouac in tents on its shores.
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Along the Kesugi Ridge Trail, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the white peaks of Denali Park. A wonderful trail, to be undertaken at least once in a lifetime.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Denali State Park?
Denali State Park offers a diverse range of hiking experiences with over 10 distinct trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate paths to more challenging, longer expeditions.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Denali State Park?
The park's terrain is incredibly varied, transitioning from dense spruce and birch forests at lower elevations to expansive alpine tundra as you gain altitude. You'll encounter meandering lowland streams and the prominent 35-mile-long Curry and Kesugi Ridges, which form the backbone of the eastern half of the park.
Are there any trails suitable for families with children?
While many trails in Denali State Park involve significant elevation, there are options that can be enjoyed by families. For example, the area around Byers Lake offers more accessible paths. Always check the specific trail details for distance and elevation to ensure it suits your family's abilities.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Denali State Park?
Denali State Park generally welcomes dogs, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. It's always a good idea to check the specific regulations for each trail or area within the park, as rules can vary. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.
What are the best viewpoints for seeing Denali within the State Park?
Denali State Park is renowned for its breathtaking, unobstructed views of Denali. Excellent vantage points include the Denali View North and Denali View South facilities, as well as various spots along the Kesugi Ridge Trail System. For a moderate hike with mountain views, consider the Curry Ridge loop.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Denali State Park?
Yes, there are circular routes available. The Curry Ridge loop is a popular option that allows you to experience the park's beauty without retracing your steps.
What natural features, besides Denali views, can I explore?
Beyond the iconic views of Denali, the park boasts diverse ecosystems. You can explore dense spruce and birch forests, expansive alpine tundra, and scenic features like Byers Lake and numerous lowland streams. The 35-mile-long Curry and Kesugi Ridges themselves are dominant natural features offering unique landscapes.
Is public transport available to access hiking trails in Denali State Park?
Public transport options directly into Denali State Park are limited. Most visitors access the park via the George Parks Highway by private vehicle. Some tour operators may offer shuttle services to specific trailheads, but it's best to arrange private transportation for flexibility.
Where can I find parking for trailheads in Denali State Park?
Parking is generally available at designated trailheads throughout Denali State Park. Popular access points like the Little Coal Creek Trailhead and Byers Creek Campground offer parking facilities. Always check for any specific parking fees or regulations upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Denali State Park?
The prime hiking season in Denali State Park typically runs from late May through early September. During this period, trails are generally snow-free, and the weather is milder, offering the best conditions for exploring. Fall brings stunning autumn colors, while winter hiking requires specialized gear and experience.
What do other hikers say about their experience in Denali State Park?
The hiking experiences in Denali State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the panoramic views of the Alaska Range, the diverse terrain, and the sense of wilderness immersion.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest along the trails?
Yes, several points of interest enhance the hiking experience. You might encounter the scenic Skinny Lake, or access the larger Kesugi Ridge system from the Little Coal Creek Trail. The Alaska Veterans Memorial is also a notable landmark within the park.
Are there any challenging multi-day hikes available?
For experienced hikers seeking a multi-day challenge, the Kesugi Ridge Trail System is a prominent option. This 29.2-mile point-to-point trail traverses the park's north-to-south boundary, offering significant elevation gain and vast stretches of alpine wilderness. Shorter, difficult sections like the Skinny Lake route also provide a substantial challenge.
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Most popular attractions in Denali State Park
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